Frugal Christmas Season

A Christmas tree stand near our home in Vermont

 

There are sales in all the stores. Many people are shopping or making lists to begin their shopping. There are thoughts of gifts and special treats for giving to others. It is a beautiful time of year.

As I was driving home from errands the other day, I noticed a few Christmas-tree stands.  Many of the stores have a display outside and are offering live trees for sale. These outdoor shops look charming in the snowy landscape.  

It makes one smile to window-shop and to delight in all the decorative lights and merchandise that is available.  And even though I am not buying anything, I am content and at peace.  

The other morning, as I walked around our property, I came across one of my miniature rose plants in the snow.  There was one delicate rose still on the plant. I thought it looked so pretty and wanted to bring it indoors.  It now sits in a tiny pitcher on my kitchen table. It looks like a pretty dried flower and adds a sense of frugal elegance to the house.

A delicate rose from the front garden. 

We came across an old box, here in the house. It contained the nativity set that belonged to my parents (who lived with us here for many years).  When some of the grandchildren visited, they arranged all the pieces. I told them, "this belonged to your great-grandparents."  It has been handed down through the family and looks sweet and nostalgic. It is much better than anything we could have bought ourselves.  It is so special when things from previous generations are kept within the family. 

The great-grandparent's nativity set. 

The children stood in awe of the scene before them. I was so happy to see how sweetly they set it all up. 

Soon I hope to get some ingredients for winter baking.  I want to make cookies, fudge, cinnamon cake, and brownies. I also need to bake some bread. When I make these homemade treats myself, it saves a great deal of money.  I love to have something special for whenever the extended family comes for a visit. I want the grandchildren to always have something homemade to eat when they are here. 

The cost of living is so high. I must do my best to live on a very strict budget so all the bills can be paid. This leaves very little funds for treats or little gifts that bring a sense of cheer and joy to the family.  I want to be ever so careful so that there is a bit of money available for a few thoughtful gifts this Christmas. In order to do this, I like to read about the old ways of homemakers and how creative they were in their homemaking. I need that encouragement and inspiration. Somehow, they either made things for the family or came up with a small amount of cash to get little presents to delight the household.  It is a challenge in these difficult financial times! 

I have been encouraged by reading old hymns out of the hymn books. I am grateful for the privilege of prayer, which keeps worries away and fills me with a sense of serenity.  It reminds me not to rush or hurry or do things in a panic. When I look out the front windows at the snowy landscape, I feel so thankful for a cozy fire to keep us warm indoors. This Christmas season is such a peaceful time to keep house, to tend to the family, and to serve the dear Lord.  

Blessings

Mrs. White

From the Archives -

Beautiful Living - Feminine Grace. 

When 4 generations lived here together - Gracious Homemaking.

Remembering my Childhood - Manners Learned at the Finishing School.

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Now Available from The Legacy of Home Press:

Old Fashioned Homemaking: Essays and Encouragement from a New England Housewife by Mrs. White

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