How much is 'too much'?

[haysi06]

In terms of Christmas presents for children nowadays? Do you feel under pressure to buy the latest gadgets and accessories? do you stick to an agreed budget? Hays xx

[banjosister]

Hey Hay!

I used to feel under pressure to spend loads, mostly coz I was skint and couldn't afford ****** all. At the end of the day the kids will enjoy the festivities regardless.

I try not to spend more than I can afford but I don't usually manage it, usually still paying off the overdraft in May!

My son's washing machine just died and he has three young children so bet you can't guess what I just bought him for Christmas!

[haysi06]

Hi banjosister, I see a lot of people getting into a lot of debt over Christmas trying to get the lastest craze for their children. It is difficult not to isnt it?

Washing machine for Christmas is a brill pressie! I want/need a new lappy.

[cazzz1975]

kids are happy with any gifts (as long as it isnt socks or rubbish like that)

I tend to stick to a budget and learning the types of stuff they like makes it special instead of getting the latest fad toy that the manufacturers try to push.

Ignore the pressure and buy what you can afford. like leg says its all forgotton very soon

[Louisa 69]

I have a budget and do try to stick to it, although it can be hard. I have a 20 year old daughter and 5 year old son, buying for the wee one is great as you can get a lot for your money, but my daughter does want the expensive gadgets and stuff. Come christmas day he has loads more presants than her, but i've spent the same on both.

[banjosister]

Hey Haysi,

I do get into debt but debt that I can afford if you know what I mean. The only debt I have is an overdraft which I don't use all the time.

I'm glad that I can help my kids out in times of need. My son has had a really hard few years. He deserves more than I can give him - and not just financially xx

[haysi06]

Yes, you are right, its better to stick to an agreed budget. I have told everyone that I am going to knit them a scarf!! Wools not that cheap tho :)

[neo.]

hayzi fantazi

[haysi06]

Hi Neo

Hayzi fantazi - my dad used to call me that! Do you remember them? John Wayne is big leggy LOL

[neo.]

about 1981 or summink...I was one at the time :) or summink like that

[haysi06]

yeah, erm I remember my dad told me about that song.......

[Myriad2112]

boxed stuff from e-bay, they'll never know!!

[haysi06]

hi myriadd, I have never actually used ebay. I think I set up an account some time ago but never bought anything. My friends daughter bought Take That tix and they never turned up! The swine took the money. :(

[Myriad2112]

they should get the money back, e-bay are quite tough with people who take the money and don't supply the goods, I know a guy who all be it innocently sent a camera to the wrong address, he was ordered to send the money back and ended up with neither camera nor money. Moral is buy, don't sell. M