Christmas Memories on a Budget

Just three of my amazing grandchildren!

To all the Grandmas and Grandpas, Nannas and Oompas, and anyone else celebrating this special season with little ones here or at a distance - is your shopping done?

When I was planning out our retirement budget pre-retirement, I looked at the blank space on my spreadsheet that said Gifts and wondered what to put in it.  I now have eleven grandchildren ranging in age from 2 to 14 years of age.  I most often sent them money gifts or gift cards even before retirement - especially when shipping was more expensive than the gift itself!  Of course with Amazon and other online shopping meccas providing free or inexpensive shipping, that was no longer a concern.  I always preferred a meaningful gift but have to admit, in the rush of full time work and the busyness of the season, I frequently opted to send money to mom to do the shopping.