Holiday Gifts

Posted by Connie Newbauer Nov 27, 2006

When is it too much?

For as long as we have had children, it seems that they’ve written letters to Santa, left us a list laying around or flat out given suggestions for gifts. My husband and I use this as a starting point, but we’ve never followed the lists exactly…we’d be bankrupt today if we did!

One of the biggest debates as parents was how much is too much? My husband and I have vastly varying opinions on this topic – or at least we did at the beginning of our family. He associated the number of gifts – and the price – with the value placed on the relationship. Anyone who has ever witnessed a child playing with all of the boxes instead of the advanced technological teddy bear you just bought knows that they love you just as much for the box!

I’ve always thought that knowing a person and choosing something they would like, but wouldn’t pick up for themselves was the hallmark of a good gift – regardless of price. Over the years, hubby has gradually come around to my way of thinking and choosing gifts – although he still resembles a man wandering in a foreign land sometimes!

The ultimate check point for me is this: Are we remembering why we celebrate Christmas?

As givers, I am hoping the children put more thought and less money into the giving – and as receivers, my great wish is for them to be thankful for the expression of love given to them in remembrance of the love born to us one Christmas morning long ago.

Are you looking for the perfect gift for a teacher?