Gifting: Santa's Secret Shopping List
By: Dar ArechederraSo, how would you describe your life as you prepare for the holidays?
Peaceful? Calm?
Or is it stressful? Frenzied?
For some of us, the added stress and expense of the holidays can detract from our season of joy and celebration.
We've got planning to do.
Cooking.
Cleaning.
Shopping.
We're called upon to use more of our resources. Time. Energy. Money. (And don't forget patience!)
Hanging on to our sanity can become our biggest challenge (smile).
The good news is that there really is a way to make things a bit easier. You can save time, energy and money, too.
A simple list is all you need. Remember, even Santa makes a list and checks it twice!
Create Your Own Personalized List
Targeting both giving and receiving is the way to go.
I mean, can we really enjoy dusting all that stuff if we don't care for it? And others may feel the same way.
So, on a sheet of paper, draw a line (or fold) down the center of the page to create two columns. On the top left half, write in *Needs;* on the top right half, write in *Wants.* Write your items into your list in the appropriate spot. And next to each item, place the person's name.
It's a good idea to add expensive items to your list, too. Always let others know when you're looking for more costly items, because you just never know what can happen.
This past summer, I wanted a porch swing and decided to wait for the end of season sales. I put the word out to my friends. But in late September I was still searching, and it looked as if I'd missed the boat.
I couldn't find a single swing out there. But a friend spotted one, got the address and price for me. I purchased it that day at one-third the original price. Brand new, in the box, no parts missing. I finally had my porch swing, and at a perfect price.
How Your List Can Help You
If your family exchanges gifts, send them a copy of your list. Deliver it, mail it, or email it. For bigger items on your list, the family may pool their money and make a purchase (or find a fantastic deal for you.)
Keep a copy of your list at work for gift exchanges. Simply pull a few items from your list so coworkers have an idea of your preferences.
Keep your list for year-round use. It's ready to go for birthdays and special occasions, too.
Convert Your List into a Multi-Purpose Helper
Flip your page over and make a *cheat-sheet* of friends, coworkers and family members. As you discover items they like/dislike, write these items next to their names.
Create a tab named *Gifting* in your calendar or planner. Insert your list behind it. Update it as you come across important information.
Here are some neat things to track.
o favorite gifts, food and snacks (loves mini candy bars)
o favorite colors
o pet name, breed type, pet birthdate
o specific dislikes (certain perfumes, nuts in cookies)
o allergies to foods, etc. (chocolate, peanut butter)
o clothing/shoe sizes
Santa's making a list -- and checking it twice. But now you know the secrets behind Santa's list!
Happy Holidays to you and yours. Enjoy your season of peace and joy.
© 2004 Darlene Arechederra Darlene Arechederra leads the delightful series, "Coming Home: A Woman's Journey to One-Income Living." Women of two-income households who want to find their way back home from the workplace will enjoy this gentle, energizing jumpstart. Visit with Darlene at www.AffordtoStayHome.com/info.htm