Comments on: The Four Things Children Really Want for Christmas http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/ Common sense advice on money saving tips, how to get out of debt, high interest savings accounts, cd rates, money market accounts, mortgage rates, money management and more. Sun, 19 May 2013 22:45:23 +0000 hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.0.1 By: How To Put the “Happy” in the Holidays http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/comment-page-2/#comment-3107222 How To Put the “Happy” in the Holidays Mon, 19 Nov 2012 21:00:50 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/#comment-3107222 [...] The Four Things Children Really Want For Christmas [...]

[...] The Four Things Children Really Want For Christmas [...]

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]]> By: Frizzle http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/comment-page-2/#comment-208940 Frizzle Sun, 22 Nov 2009 16:47:58 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/#comment-208940 I am probably a strange child but.... I know I remember traditions the most. I also remember the fact that it is my job every year to hand out presents. We open one at a time, in an organized fashion. It takes hours upon hours. I always save my presents for last so I will stay interested in other people's gifts. I am probably a strange child but…. I know I remember traditions the most. I also remember the fact that it is my job every year to hand out presents. We open one at a time, in an organized fashion. It takes hours upon hours. I always save my presents for last so I will stay interested in other people’s gifts.

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]]> By: BRENDA http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/comment-page-2/#comment-160920 BRENDA Tue, 23 Dec 2008 21:10:36 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/#comment-160920 I am a frugal person as well but, looking at some of the comments-I am surprised at how much people spend on each child and still say they are frugal! We may spend only $20.00 or as much as $50.00 on our one child but, rarely more. We will do things like a treasure hunt for a gift to make it more fun or even wrap a gift inside a box, inside a box, etc. Hand made gifts are so meaningful also especially when they include photos, (which is what I love to give AND receive but rarely ever receive) So, give a 6 photo album to someone or create a collage you can frame for them-it's quite meaningful and not all that expensive. I am a frugal person as well but, looking at some of the comments-I am surprised at how much people spend on each child and still say they are frugal! We may spend only $20.00 or as much as $50.00 on our one child but, rarely more.
We will do things like a treasure hunt for a gift to make it more fun or even wrap a gift inside a box, inside a box, etc.

Hand made gifts are so meaningful also especially when they include photos, (which is what I love to give AND receive but rarely ever receive)
So, give a 6 photo album to someone or create a collage you can frame for them-it’s quite meaningful and not all that expensive.

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]]> By: Cat http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/comment-page-1/#comment-158997 Cat Sun, 07 Dec 2008 17:36:53 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/#comment-158997 Hello and Happy Day, For me growing up, the focus was on giving. As children and with my own, we went through lots of changes, but one thing was certain. We were all able to carry out a Christmas tradition that was meaningful while respecting others who chose to celebrate in their own way. No matter how little my parents had (that was very little) we were always encouraged on their example to give a gift to someone, anyone that was in our sphere. It did not matter how little we had and because my parents did not focus on it, we did not realize and even watched television occasionally. Of course we didn't have money to purchase more than supplies. We made things, did chores for neighbors and we continued this year round. Wasn't just a Christmas tradition. We did this at home, with friends, at school and now with our own families. I have received special and expensive gifts and appreciate the thought and time put in by the giver. Today the gifts I take care of first are the ones I make, such as sauces, jams, pancake mixes and honey and maple syrup. I have my own special recipes developed over the years or shared by friends and even the internet. Accepting change is a process and will always be. Many people will find there is lots less to spend on toys and gifts, because of all the obvious reasons. Some will realize how insane it is to spend extra time working to purchase and pay for gifts when friends and family enjoy a meal, or special coffee or tea and treats together with friends. Some people are rooted in different belief systems and I have learned that they will eventually do what is right for them. Giving is what we foucused on and all of us continue to do and pass down to our children. Merry Holidays Everyone and Take Good Care of Yourselves. Cat Hello and Happy Day,

For me growing up, the focus was on giving.

As children and with my own, we went through lots of changes, but one thing was certain. We were all able to carry out a Christmas tradition that was meaningful while respecting others who chose to celebrate in their own way.

No matter how little my parents had (that was very little) we were always encouraged on their example to give a gift to someone, anyone that was in our sphere. It did not matter how little we had and because my parents did not focus on it, we did not realize and even watched television occasionally. Of course we didn’t have money to purchase more than supplies. We made things, did chores for neighbors and we continued this year round. Wasn’t just a Christmas tradition.

We did this at home, with friends, at school and now with our own families.

I have received special and expensive gifts and appreciate the thought and time put in by the giver.

Today the gifts I take care of first are the ones I make, such as sauces, jams, pancake mixes and honey and maple syrup.

I have my own special recipes developed over the years or shared by friends and even the internet.

Accepting change is a process and will always be. Many people will find there is lots less to spend on toys and gifts, because of all the obvious reasons. Some will realize how insane it is to spend extra time working to purchase and pay for gifts when friends and family enjoy a meal, or special coffee or tea and treats together with friends. Some people are rooted in different belief systems and I have learned that they will eventually do what is right for them. Giving is what we foucused on and all of us continue to do and pass down to our children.

Merry Holidays Everyone and Take Good Care of Yourselves.

Cat

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]]> By: Families and Technology » Kids want ‘time with parents, not gifts’ http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/comment-page-1/#comment-110025 Families and Technology » Kids want ‘time with parents, not gifts’ Sun, 30 Dec 2007 19:20:27 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/#comment-110025 [...] a post on Get Rich Slowly, the book Unplug the Christmas Machine, a book about escaping the commercialism of Christmas, is [...]

[...] a post on Get Rich Slowly, the book Unplug the Christmas Machine, a book about escaping the commercialism of Christmas, is [...]

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]]> By: Free Money Finance http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/comment-page-1/#comment-109939 Free Money Finance Sat, 29 Dec 2007 11:01:41 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/#comment-109939 <strong>Star Money Articles for the Week of December 24...</strong> Here are some recent interesting posts from the MoneyBlogNetwork and beyond: Get Rich Slowly tells us four things kids want for Christmas. Consumerism Commentary says people fail at financial New Year's resolutions. AllFinancialMatters tells us what a...

Star Money Articles for the Week of December 24…

Here are some recent interesting posts from the MoneyBlogNetwork and beyond: Get Rich Slowly tells us four things kids want for Christmas. Consumerism Commentary says people fail at financial New Year’s resolutions. AllFinancialMatters tells us what a…

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]]> By: Erika http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/comment-page-1/#comment-109794 Erika Thu, 27 Dec 2007 13:49:45 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/#comment-109794 I do try to manage Christmas but my kids are still young - 5 and 3.5. My 5 year old told me that Santa only brings one gift per child so there is enough to go around. I don't believe I ever said that so I'm very impressed. He only asks for one thing for birthdays or Christmas. My daughter is still a little young and she just asks for princesses. I try to not spend too much because the kids also recieve from 3 sets of grandparents, 4 uncles/aunts, and 2 cousins. Fortunately the close family buys a gift to unwrap and then gives us money for their 529s. It still is too much I think but we'll see how it works over the years. There are lots of good ideas here to use in the future. I do try to manage Christmas but my kids are still young – 5 and 3.5. My 5 year old told me that Santa only brings one gift per child so there is enough to go around. I don’t believe I ever said that so I’m very impressed. He only asks for one thing for birthdays or Christmas. My daughter is still a little young and she just asks for princesses. I try to not spend too much because the kids also recieve from 3 sets of grandparents, 4 uncles/aunts, and 2 cousins. Fortunately the close family buys a gift to unwrap and then gives us money for their 529s. It still is too much I think but we’ll see how it works over the years. There are lots of good ideas here to use in the future.

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]]> By: drhands http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/comment-page-1/#comment-109732 drhands Wed, 26 Dec 2007 16:04:39 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/#comment-109732 Re: managing expectations. My mom was great at this. Every year, like clockwork, she would say something like, "Well, I don't think this year will be a very big Christmas." I think those speeches helped us really appreciate what we got. Also, mom did not promise us anything for Christmas, ever. It was always, "maybe" or "we'll see" or "you might get it." It chafes me when I hear kids say, "I'm getting this, and this, and this." I half expect them to pull out the contract they had their parents sign. Also, I don't think it's the worst thing in the world for a kid to get upset over not getting something for Christmas, as long as parents use the opportunity to instruct about dealing with disappointment, being gracious, and being grateful for what you have. That is something that must be taught and learned. It doesn't come naturally. As a kid, I had a great attitude about Christmas presents, but I can remember a few specific times when my attitude wasn't so great, and it gives me a tiny pang of guilt to this day. That's good :-) Re: managing expectations.

My mom was great at this. Every year, like clockwork, she would say something like, “Well, I don’t think this year will be a very big Christmas.” I think those speeches helped us really appreciate what we got.

Also, mom did not promise us anything for Christmas, ever. It was always, “maybe” or “we’ll see” or “you might get it.”

It chafes me when I hear kids say, “I’m getting this, and this, and this.” I half expect them to pull out the contract they had their parents sign.

Also, I don’t think it’s the worst thing in the world for a kid to get upset over not getting something for Christmas, as long as parents use the opportunity to instruct about dealing with disappointment, being gracious, and being grateful for what you have. That is something that must be taught and learned. It doesn’t come naturally.

As a kid, I had a great attitude about Christmas presents, but I can remember a few specific times when my attitude wasn’t so great, and it gives me a tiny pang of guilt to this day. That’s good :-)

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]]> By: The Simple Dollar » The Simple Dollar Weekly Roundup: Christmas Gift Edition http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/comment-page-1/#comment-109726 The Simple Dollar » The Simple Dollar Weekly Roundup: Christmas Gift Edition Wed, 26 Dec 2007 14:29:04 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/#comment-109726 [...] The Four Things Children Really Want For Christmas This article made me think of my son opening up a box of Legos for Christmas. He was immediately excited, but that excitement manifested itself as he ran to me so we could open them together and start building, in his words, “BIG TOWERS!” (@ get rich slowly) [...]

[...] The Four Things Children Really Want For Christmas This article made me think of my son opening up a box of Legos for Christmas. He was immediately excited, but that excitement manifested itself as he ran to me so we could open them together and start building, in his words, “BIG TOWERS!” (@ get rich slowly) [...]

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]]> By: Jon Adair http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/comment-page-1/#comment-109725 Jon Adair Wed, 26 Dec 2007 14:20:06 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/#comment-109725 We read Unplugging Christmas a couple of years ago and have made some steady progress. Yesterday we watched carefully and asked the kids to try to figure out what their favorite presents were. Both kids spent a large part of the day playing with their cheap yo-yo and a plastic collapsible camping cup. The cup and yo-yo were both well under a dollar. We read Unplugging Christmas a couple of years ago and have made some steady progress.

Yesterday we watched carefully and asked the kids to try to figure out what their favorite presents were. Both kids spent a large part of the day playing with their cheap yo-yo and a plastic collapsible camping cup. The cup and yo-yo were both well under a dollar.

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]]> By: Minimum Wage http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/comment-page-1/#comment-109668 Minimum Wage Tue, 25 Dec 2007 03:01:17 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/#comment-109668 1) their two front teeth 2) a Wii 3) an iPod 4) a functional family 1) their two front teeth
2) a Wii
3) an iPod
4) a functional family

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]]> By: Dlyn http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/comment-page-1/#comment-109630 Dlyn Mon, 24 Dec 2007 05:51:49 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/#comment-109630 Okay,I will be the one who says I remember lots of my Christmas presents. I'm kind of weird that way that I remember way too much of my childhood. But my most memorable were: An battery powered car (this was 1973 and a BIG deal) unfortunately it drove my parents nuts and it went away. Holly Hobby sewing machine to make my Barbie's some clothes. My first stereo with 8-track tape player and given with a record of ABBA's greatest hits. A small organ that I learned how to play Christmas Carols on. Commodore 64 computer. And the last ever Christmas morning (kind of from Santa gift) my senior year of high school was a stuffed bear that I still own at the age of 40. I think the secret is that they were special (not always a lot of extra gifts) and given with love and my family didn't have very much money but they would make sure that Christmas was special. Okay,I will be the one who says I remember lots of my Christmas presents. I’m kind of weird that way that I remember way too much of my childhood. But my most memorable were:

An battery powered car (this was 1973 and a BIG deal) unfortunately it drove my parents nuts and it went away.

Holly Hobby sewing machine to make my Barbie’s some clothes.

My first stereo with 8-track tape player and given with a record of ABBA’s greatest hits.

A small organ that I learned how to play Christmas Carols on.

Commodore 64 computer.

And the last ever Christmas morning (kind of from Santa gift) my senior year of high school was a stuffed bear that I still own at the age of 40.

I think the secret is that they were special (not always a lot of extra gifts) and given with love and my family didn’t have very much money but they would make sure that Christmas was special.

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]]> By: Simon http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/comment-page-1/#comment-109615 Simon Sun, 23 Dec 2007 22:32:07 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/#comment-109615 The details of the post should not only apply to Christmas. Parents can use this mentality for birthdays and any other special occasions for their children. It'll help teach the children from thinking that happiness does not necessary come from money. The details of the post should not only apply to Christmas. Parents can use this mentality for birthdays and any other special occasions for their children. It’ll help teach the children from thinking that happiness does not necessary come from money.

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]]> By: AmyS http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/comment-page-1/#comment-109611 AmyS Sun, 23 Dec 2007 19:32:15 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/#comment-109611 My memories of christmas as a child are of stress. My mother wanted everything to be perfect and got so worked up trying to do it all that it made the rest of the family crazy. I remember my dad comforting me when I was about 8yrs-old, I was crying and said "I hate christmas" and he said "I do, too, honey. We just have to get through it." For my kids I try to be relaxed and fun. We make ornaments for friends and family in December and give them out as we see people -- gets us into the giving without thought of receiving. We take time to see the lights around town, to decorate and appreciate our tree. We talk about the other festivals of lights and remember that feasting and gifts are to make the darkest, coldest time of year merry. We celebrate the return of the sun. As for gifts, the kids can ask Santa for one thing and "he" brings one big gift and two stocking stuffers for each. We take time to admire/play with each gift as it is opened (the gifts are always removed from any packaging before being wrapped). With the gifts from aunts and uncles around the country also to be opened, sometimes we aren't done opening until the day after christmas -- not because there are so many but because there is time between the gifts for play. We relax and play and laugh and appreciate each other. Then go to my parents for dinner and try to ignore the pressure for perfection my mother still puts on herself. Peace in the New Year! My memories of christmas as a child are of stress. My mother wanted everything to be perfect and got so worked up trying to do it all that it made the rest of the family crazy. I remember my dad comforting me when I was about 8yrs-old, I was crying and said “I hate christmas” and he said “I do, too, honey. We just have to get through it.” For my kids I try to be relaxed and fun. We make ornaments for friends and family in December and give them out as we see people — gets us into the giving without thought of receiving. We take time to see the lights around town, to decorate and appreciate our tree. We talk about the other festivals of lights and remember that feasting and gifts are to make the darkest, coldest time of year merry. We celebrate the return of the sun.

As for gifts, the kids can ask Santa for one thing and “he” brings one big gift and two stocking stuffers for each. We take time to admire/play with each gift as it is opened (the gifts are always removed from any packaging before being wrapped). With the gifts from aunts and uncles around the country also to be opened, sometimes we aren’t done opening until the day after christmas — not because there are so many but because there is time between the gifts for play.

We relax and play and laugh and appreciate each other. Then go to my parents for dinner and try to ignore the pressure for perfection my mother still puts on herself.

Peace in the New Year!

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]]> By: Jeffeb3 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/comment-page-1/#comment-109609 Jeffeb3 Sun, 23 Dec 2007 19:03:20 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/#comment-109609 Hmmm. This is a tad late. Most parents have already missed the opportunity to curb expectation. Good list though, maybe this will still be fresh on their minds when they see the animals tear through gift wrap on xmas day though... Hmmm. This is a tad late. Most parents have already missed the opportunity to curb expectation. Good list though, maybe this will still be fresh on their minds when they see the animals tear through gift wrap on xmas day though…

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]]> By: Karl http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/comment-page-1/#comment-109604 Karl Sun, 23 Dec 2007 18:15:55 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/#comment-109604 There are two things about Christmas gifts I remember from early childhood. First, that if there was something I especially wanted, it always came from Santa and not my parents, and second, that Santa always brought nicer presents to kids in other families. I could never figure out what I had done to displease both my parents and Santa Claus. So, by all means go extravagant on your kids if you want, but for the sake of your kids' friends make the extravagant parts from yourselves and not Santa. Kids can understand other families being wealthier than theirs. They don't understand being snubbed by Santa. There are two things about Christmas gifts I remember from early childhood. First, that if there was something I especially wanted, it always came from Santa and not my parents, and second, that Santa always brought nicer presents to kids in other families. I could never figure out what I had done to displease both my parents and Santa Claus.

So, by all means go extravagant on your kids if you want, but for the sake of your kids’ friends make the extravagant parts from yourselves and not Santa. Kids can understand other families being wealthier than theirs. They don’t understand being snubbed by Santa.

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]]> By: Ryan S. http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/comment-page-1/#comment-109602 Ryan S. Sun, 23 Dec 2007 17:21:31 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/#comment-109602 My sister promised my 7 year old niece I would get her a Wii for Christmas this year. I didn't get it, and I wasn't in on it. If my niece is horribly disappointed in a couple of days, I think my sister is responsible for it. The saddest thing about Christmas is that we as adults perpetuate a lot of the commercialism that we ourselves say we dislike. - Ryan http://uncommon-cents.net/ My sister promised my 7 year old niece I would get her a Wii for Christmas this year.

I didn’t get it, and I wasn’t in on it. If my niece is horribly disappointed in a couple of days, I think my sister is responsible for it.

The saddest thing about Christmas is that we as adults perpetuate a lot of the commercialism that we ourselves say we dislike.
-
Ryan
http://uncommon-cents.net/

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]]> By: Lunablog.net » Blog Archive » Happy Holidays! http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/comment-page-1/#comment-109578 Lunablog.net » Blog Archive » Happy Holidays! Sun, 23 Dec 2007 03:16:20 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/#comment-109578 [...] The Four Things  Children Really Want for Christmas [...]

[...] The Four Things  Children Really Want for Christmas [...]

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]]> By: discarded lies - hyperlinkopotamus http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/comment-page-1/#comment-109573 discarded lies - hyperlinkopotamus Sun, 23 Dec 2007 01:58:39 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/#comment-109573 <strong>The 4 things children really want for Christmas...</strong> The 4 things children really want for Christmas...

The 4 things children really want for Christmas…

The 4 things children really want for Christmas…

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]]> By: Dividends4Life http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/comment-page-1/#comment-109549 Dividends4Life Sat, 22 Dec 2007 15:06:55 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/#comment-109549 Great list! I think it can be summarized into one word... time. Good quality time is really what children are looking for and that is what they will remember when they are grown and done. Best Wishes, D4L Great list! I think it can be summarized into one word… time. Good quality time is really what children are looking for and that is what they will remember when they are grown and done.

Best Wishes,
D4L

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]]> By: Nick http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/comment-page-1/#comment-109546 Nick Sat, 22 Dec 2007 14:41:55 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/#comment-109546 One thing I'm doing this year for my young niece is arranging a family day out . . . to plant a tree! Costs very little but more importantly it's something worth doing and should be a fun time. Each year I'll take her back there at Xmas and we can see how much it's grown. One thing I’m doing this year for my young niece is arranging a family day out . . . to plant a tree!

Costs very little but more importantly it’s something worth doing and should be a fun time.

Each year I’ll take her back there at Xmas and we can see how much it’s grown.

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]]> By: KM http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/comment-page-1/#comment-109544 KM Sat, 22 Dec 2007 14:19:55 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/#comment-109544 Really interesting, thoughtful comments on this thread. You've given me a lot to think about. A few random thoughts: * The Victorians said that, for Christmas, each child should get four gifts: something they want, something they need, something to play with, and something to read. * Using technology to mute or skip commercials is great, but don't forget that more advertising is through product placement now, so the ads are actually woven into the show. Subtle advertising is harder to avoid. * I remember certain specific Christmas gifts that I especially wanted, but I've forgotten 98 percent of the Christmas gifts I've ever received. Many years I had forgotten the gifts by mid-January. * If you have kids, please help them make or buy small gifts for friends and relatives. Thoughtful gift-giving is an art and can take years of practice to get right. Also, putting thought and effort into presents gives kids more control over Christmas. They feel it's something they participate in rather than sitting back and waiting to get gifts. Really interesting, thoughtful comments on this thread. You’ve given me a lot to think about.

A few random thoughts:
* The Victorians said that, for Christmas, each child should get four gifts: something they want, something they need, something to play with, and something to read.

* Using technology to mute or skip commercials is great, but don’t forget that more advertising is through product placement now, so the ads are actually woven into the show. Subtle advertising is harder to avoid.

* I remember certain specific Christmas gifts that I especially wanted, but I’ve forgotten 98 percent of the Christmas gifts I’ve ever received. Many years I had forgotten the gifts by mid-January.

* If you have kids, please help them make or buy small gifts for friends and relatives. Thoughtful gift-giving is an art and can take years of practice to get right. Also, putting thought and effort into presents gives kids more control over Christmas. They feel it’s something they participate in rather than sitting back and waiting to get gifts.

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]]> By: ian in hamburg http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/comment-page-1/#comment-109534 ian in hamburg Sat, 22 Dec 2007 07:45:23 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/#comment-109534 It's especially difficult to manage gift and expectation overload if you have an only child. We try to let everyone who wants to send her a present to do it as a group. In Germany, we celebrate Christmas on the evening of the 24th. We have dinner in the early evening and open the presents later. Our family has a tradition we know will always be memorable for her: we go for a walk after Christmas dinner. During that time, neighbours come over with gifts we've left with them and they put them under the tree. We've been doing that ever since she was little, and though she's nearly 11 and old enough now to know that Santa Claus is but a legend, she asked the other day: are we going for our walk again this Christmas? It’s especially difficult to manage gift and expectation overload if you have an only child. We try to let everyone who wants to send her a present to do it as a group.

In Germany, we celebrate Christmas on the evening of the 24th. We have dinner in the early evening and open the presents later. Our family has a tradition we know will always be memorable for her: we go for a walk after Christmas dinner. During that time, neighbours come over with gifts we’ve left with them and they put them under the tree.
We’ve been doing that ever since she was little, and though she’s nearly 11 and old enough now to know that Santa Claus is but a legend, she asked the other day: are we going for our walk again this Christmas?

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]]> By: Ryan S. http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/comment-page-1/#comment-109532 Ryan S. Sat, 22 Dec 2007 07:07:03 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/#comment-109532 I swear that this time of year is the absolute epitome of "a happy time is a stressful time." At least up there with a new baby in the family, but this comes every year! I swear that this time of year is the absolute epitome of “a happy time is a stressful time.” At least up there with a new baby in the family, but this comes every year!

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]]> By: Terry http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/comment-page-1/#comment-109526 Terry Sat, 22 Dec 2007 05:05:02 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/#comment-109526 May I suggest: 1) Cardboard boxes. Large, interestingly shaped ones, especially. 2) Blocks. 3) Things that roll 4) Simple things that sound neat, such as pots and wooden spoons, slide whistles, washboards and sticks, xylophones, drums, etc. Then again, that may only apply to certain age brackets. ;) May I suggest:
1) Cardboard boxes. Large, interestingly shaped ones, especially.
2) Blocks.
3) Things that roll
4) Simple things that sound neat, such as pots and wooden spoons, slide whistles, washboards and sticks, xylophones, drums, etc.

Then again, that may only apply to certain age brackets. ;)

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]]> By: Tyson http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/comment-page-1/#comment-109498 Tyson Fri, 21 Dec 2007 21:11:05 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/#comment-109498 I totally agree with the above list, particularly item 1. Throughout my childhood, I learned to resent Christmas as Christmas Eve and Christmas Day was spent cleaning the house in a hurried attempt to tidy up before the family party. It was the most nerve-wracking time of the year and I dreaded my winter break from school because of it. In time, the parents relaxed and things felt more like they should. I can say I actually look forward to it now. I totally agree with the above list, particularly item 1. Throughout my childhood, I learned to resent Christmas as Christmas Eve and Christmas Day was spent cleaning the house in a hurried attempt to tidy up before the family party. It was the most nerve-wracking time of the year and I dreaded my winter break from school because of it. In time, the parents relaxed and things felt more like they should. I can say I actually look forward to it now.

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]]> By: Cara http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/comment-page-1/#comment-109491 Cara Fri, 21 Dec 2007 19:08:15 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/#comment-109491 What I remember is baking cream puffs, setting up the nativity, playing cards with my gram while my parents cooked Christmas dinner, and when I got old enough helping cook the dinner. The only THINGS that I remember were the silly things we got in our stockings. I was an only child, so it was always just me, my gram, and my parents, and every year we got in our stockings little wind up toys which we would race. =D What I remember is baking cream puffs, setting up the nativity, playing cards with my gram while my parents cooked Christmas dinner, and when I got old enough helping cook the dinner. The only THINGS that I remember were the silly things we got in our stockings. I was an only child, so it was always just me, my gram, and my parents, and every year we got in our stockings little wind up toys which we would race. =D

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]]> By: redhead68 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/comment-page-1/#comment-109490 redhead68 Fri, 21 Dec 2007 18:31:19 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/#comment-109490 I agree, JJ, all things in moderation. Church is a very big part of our Christmas celebration, as it should be since we're Christians. Nonetheless, we really enjoy the secular aspects of the holidays. It wouldn't be Christmas without the tree, the decorations, the food, the visiting, and yes, the gifts, too. Even our church gets in on the fun. At the Wednesday night service during the week of St. Nicholas Day, our pastor has all the kids take off their shoes, leaving them in the fellowship hall before they leave for choir practice. When the kids return, each pair is filled with an orange & a few pieces of candy. It's a wonderful tradition, and one that we all enjoy from year to year. LOL, icup! I agree, JJ, all things in moderation. Church is a very big part of our Christmas celebration, as it should be since we’re Christians. Nonetheless, we really enjoy the secular aspects of the holidays. It wouldn’t be Christmas without the tree, the decorations, the food, the visiting, and yes, the gifts, too. Even our church gets in on the fun. At the Wednesday night service during the week of St. Nicholas Day, our pastor has all the kids take off their shoes, leaving them in the fellowship hall before they leave for choir practice. When the kids return, each pair is filled with an orange & a few pieces of candy. It’s a wonderful tradition, and one that we all enjoy from year to year.

LOL, icup!

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]]> By: icup http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/comment-page-1/#comment-109489 icup Fri, 21 Dec 2007 18:25:29 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/#comment-109489 I don't know about you guys, but I've been super bad all year in the hopes that santa will notice and bring me what I really want: free fossil fuels to heat my house. I just hope he's smart enough to bring 100 gallons of propane rather than a lump of coal, but I suppose I could always sell the coal... I don’t know about you guys, but I’ve been super bad all year in the hopes that santa will notice and bring me what I really want: free fossil fuels to heat my house. I just hope he’s smart enough to bring 100 gallons of propane rather than a lump of coal, but I suppose I could always sell the coal…

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]]> By: Jordan http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/comment-page-1/#comment-109488 Jordan Fri, 21 Dec 2007 18:22:10 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/12/21/the-four-things-children-really-want-for-christmas/#comment-109488 I remember getting too many gifts as a kid. My parents are separated and remarried so I have My Mom, Dad, Step Mom, Step dad, my grand parents on my mom and dads side and my grand parents on my step moms side (my step dads parents live in another country) I had uncles and aunts, and everyone is so giving that on Christmas as a kid I remember making 3-4 stops and having to open presents at each one. I remember wanting to just play with one of the toys I got but couldn't because i had to open the rest of them. Now I see my little brother and sister going through the same thing (half brothers and sisters so they don't have to deal with as many stops, but my mom (not theirs) still gives them gifts as do other members of my family. It is ridiculous. You shouldn't have to force kids to open more presents, and if you do...you bought way too much. When I have kids, Ill do what my mom did. you get 1 big present, and 3 small presents. that was it. We pretended their was a Santa till I was about 5, after that, it was done. And it worked out well. I remember getting too many gifts as a kid. My parents are separated and remarried so I have My Mom, Dad, Step Mom, Step dad, my grand parents on my mom and dads side and my grand parents on my step moms side (my step dads parents live in another country) I had uncles and aunts, and everyone is so giving that on Christmas as a kid I remember making 3-4 stops and having to open presents at each one. I remember wanting to just play with one of the toys I got but couldn’t because i had to open the rest of them.

Now I see my little brother and sister going through the same thing (half brothers and sisters so they don’t have to deal with as many stops, but my mom (not theirs) still gives them gifts as do other members of my family. It is ridiculous. You shouldn’t have to force kids to open more presents, and if you do…you bought way too much.

When I have kids, Ill do what my mom did. you get 1 big present, and 3 small presents. that was it. We pretended their was a Santa till I was about 5, after that, it was done. And it worked out well.

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