A Thoughtul Guide to Holiday Spending

The holidays can be the most wonderful yet most stressful times of the year. Between gifts, gatherings, and travel, many of us experience emotional and financial stress. We are bombarded with images of what the holidays and good gift giving look like—perfectly wrapped presents, matching pajamas, and gifts that make their eyes light up!

Our host, Laura, emphasizes that generosity is not reflected in the price tags of the gifts you give. She encourages us to ask, "What do we want our giving to say?" She shares three gift-giving guidelines: give gifts that are meaningful, useful, and joyful. These can be as simple as a note, a framed photo, or a homemade treat. For Laura, she just wants time with those she loves.

And when the holidays are over, what do people remember the most? It's usually the moments spent together, not the things received. Laura encourages us to set boundaries and to remember that a good holiday budget is not about restriction, but about honoring your own goals. Being the hummingbird means doing what we can, with what we have and where we are.

Let peace, not pressure, guide your spending this holiday season.