Just yesterday I bought some cookbooks and vintage Pyrex for my SIL! I was chatting with the cashier and she asked if my SIL would be upset that they’re used and honestly I think she prefers pre-loved things! They have a story and life that you get to appreciate and enjoy ❤
OMG YES!! Can we start to normalize thrifted gifts?? Not only is astronomically cheaper than retail, but the amount of unique one of a kind things, not to mention often times, better quality then what’s out in retail stores today. I will thrift gifts occasionally if I know the person is into that. Also, I collect vintage Pyrex and vintage cookbooks and would LOVE receiving these as gifts, I hope your SIL enjoys them!! 😊
Both myself and my partner love pre-loved, as does my mum!! Isn't it interesting that something from fifteen years ago is considered second hand and folks turn their nose up at it, but the same thing from one hundred years previously is an antique or collectable just because it's worth more? Folks are weirdly snobby about secondhand items.
My kids are a doing a gift swap with their cousins and I made it a point to state that we’re okay with thrifted gifts! Especially things like books - we love books but they’re ridiculously priced brand new!
I’m not a parent, but being an aunt, one of my favourite things is seeing how my niece and nephew’s interests change each year and selecting Christmas gifts to match! I always do something to read as well, plus a small toy each. Gift giving is such a joyous thing, especially at Christmas ❤
We give 1 gift each from the big red guy, Mom & Dad, & each sibling. We have the kids pick out their gifts to eachother as they become old enough to do so, same with 1 gift from all the kids together to each parent. Then the kids get stockings with a couple treats, a book, & a couple small gifts. We start thinking about what to get them in the Summer & we try to make very mindful purchases that they will actually love & use. Sometimes my husband sneaks an extra gift in there 😅 But I like to think we do Christmas very mindfully while still making it exciting & magical.
The December box is something I've incorporated into our Christmas traditions and I love it so much! We get the box out the weekend after Thanksgiving, when we start decorating the house. We have cookie mix to make, hot chocolate, Christmas pj's and all our Christmas books. I'm so excited for my 5 year old to see it this year!
I love the intentionality behind finding a handful of gifts for each person rather than buying a ton of less meaningful things for the sake of having a lot to open. That’s what we did this year as well- second hand/thrift, consumable specialty snacks, and thoughtful items for each person. 💛
These are great gifts. I think sometimes it's good for kids to read books that are below their reading level, as long as that's not all they're reading. It builds their confidence as a reader, improves reading speed, and can be a great way to just let them engage and enjoy the story without it being a challenge, which will just help them love reading.
So agreed. My (now 18 yo) daughter had a fifth grade teacher that was so rude to her one day bc she was reading a series that was “beneath her”. It was embarrassing and humiliating for her. She was already reading at a high level but read that series for pure enjoyment. I wrote a scathing letter to the teacher who ended up apologizing but the damage was done. My daughter still doesn’t read for fun and that is a negative core memory for her. 😢 she’s been considering picking up a book recently tho
I'm an avid reader now & I started with, "The Magic Treehouse", "Junie B Jones", & "The Bailey School Kids". So glad to see kids still love these!!!! 🥰
I love how you incorporate secondhand gifts into your kids' Christmas! It’s such a thoughtful way to celebrate while being budget-friendly and environmentally conscious. Your kids are going to be so excited with all these surprises! 🎄✨
We are also doing our own rendition of the 4 Gift Rule. Our little will be 13 months old, and we are excited to start our own Christmas traditions. I grew up with getting lots of Christmas gifts (dozens each year), and I had a hard time appreciating them I'm excited to give my family fewer, quality gifts while focusing on our family
I absolutely love the idea of giving second hand. You and I are kindred spirits in that we cherish antiques and using items to their full potential, even if they need a little love. Hoping I find some gems when I go looking for my kids 🫶🏻
I always get my boys books on their birthdays and Christmas. It has become a tradition for a few years now and my boys love it! My 12 year old loves reading graphic novels and my 8 year old is into Dogman and Captain underpants. I think it's a great way to instill the love of reading as an avid reader myself.
Always great. Thank you Natalie! And good job being so far ahead of the game with having everything bought. I have one idea to share with the UA-cam family - I do the photos of "I wants" all year long and save them in a Gift Ideas album on my phone. Then I compile lists for bdays and Xmas. I put sizes, favorite colors....on everyone's list then I give each family member that buys gifts for them their own "only on your list" set of things. Usually three things on each "exclusive list". That way 1.) the boys don't get everything and 2.) family doesn't have to ask me 10x "is anyone else getting this...?" They are so appreciative and I'm glad that the kids are getting things they've wanted throughout the year.
Your hair grew back fast. Looks nice. And by the way, you are a wonderful Mother! So thoughtful and kind. Your kids are very lucky. And you are lucky to have Westin, but that's a story for another time. LOL.
Love, love, love this video! I love how you keep it reasonable and intentional. We do similar things like buying second hand or limiting it to just 4-5 things. Christmas can be just as magical that way. I'm going to keep those food kit ideas in mind for when my kids are a bit older. They would love those! Plus its something the whole family will enjoy the result of.
You are so thoughtful about your kids gifts. I think the Lego advent calendar is something I'm going to check out for my son-in-law for next year. The December box is a wonderful idea. My daughter and I used to get Christmas jamies. We stopped for some reason, but we're talking about doing it again. I'm 71 and she is 40. Love your videos.
Those are great categories for gifts!!! My categories are something big, something they asked for/want, something to read, something for their minds, something they need, something they collect, a surprise gift, a game of some sort, something physical/outdoors, and a gift card. I don't mind getting second hand, either. Klutz books are a hit in our home!!!
Thanks for sharing ❤❤❤ I did something different this year lost my 2 son in January 29 2023 and I made all pillows out of my son dress clothes. To his bothers and sisters and sister in law. And got the kids made teddy bears wirh a tshirt wirh a memory verse on it .thanks for showing me we didn't have spent lots of money love your channel merry Christmas to you all and God bless you all ❤ and happy that to you all .
Love the december box! Thank you for freely sharing your tips 💕 I think I’ll start looking for gifts second hand! I do for myself but have never given to others. Will start hunting for our kids for next year :)
Hi Natalie! I love the little jungle idea! I have a 3yr old granddaughter, that's ready tiny & petite, that sounds alot like Hayley! She truly thinks she's a princess & loves all the frilly & pretty clothes. But she'll Erin outside barefoot picking up worms & bugs & does a good job keeping up with he 5yr old brother.😄 I think everyone loves the squish mellows! All my grandkids have them & my son, who's married & has a 1yr old, bought me one couple years ago.😄 But I have A pillow i use in the car when we travel that's just a round pillow but has that same inside as a squish mellow & its so comfy! My husband loves it too. I so agree, experience gifts are the best! We did that with my son write a few times when he was young & growing up. That was always his favorite gift. When he was about 7 or 8 he was really into wrestling, we did big event wrestling tickets one yes. He's always been into hunting, one year the jiffy was a trip to Ohio for a big 3 night youth hunt that was videoed, there was a deep sea fishing trip one year and several others. He was always elated & that brought me & his dad so much joy!🥹 The one treating i started with my oilseeds, then with my son.. they're over 13yrs apart, sand then with all my grandkids is.. we all sleep in the same room. And when we get up on Christmas morning whoever wakes up first wakes the rest. We all so in the bed, my husband tell of the real meaning for Christmas & then we sing happy birthday to Jesus before we go out of the room! But Oh yes we celebrate him all year, everyday. Enjoyed the video, thanks for sharing! I pray your family will have a blessed & Happy Thanksgiving!🙏🏻🦃
Literally sitting here watching your video after the kids went to bed making our family perler bead creations for Christmas 😅 I got my daughter her first kit after hearing from you a few weeks ago that Hailey likes them, and now I keep making them, too! 🥰
I loved magic tree house growing up! My mom always worked it into my homeschool as well! They used to have a website where you could answer a few questions about the book and earn a “passport stamp” you could print out! It was super fun!
I'm doing the December/Christmas box for the first time this year. I have 5 boys, and with money being tight this is a great idea. Thanks for sharing Natalie. 😊
We just found the whole set of Magic Treehouse books at a yard sale for 50 cents a piece! It was such a huge score. My 6 year old started reading them and she loves them! I loved them as a kid too.
Have you listened to The Magic Treehouse podcast?! My kids LOVE listening to them in the car. Even if they’ve read the books the mom and dad who do the podcast make it so much fun for kids to listen to again 🙃
I always buy my sons advent calendar after Christmas much cheaper. I hope your family enjoy the holidays. I love watching your what I got my kids for Christmas vid.
Loved your video. I did similar for my twins when they were children. My kiddos did not care if things were second hand. I raised them going to a consignment shop up our street. And to this day, they don't care if things are thrifted.
I love how minimal you are with gifts. I have downsized a lot. This year I wanted to keep to 5 gifts per kid but I have more like 8. I hope next year I can keep it to 4-5.
I’m glad you enjoyed the video! My biggest hesitation with posting anything like this is that people will compare inevitably. But we all have the freedom to do what’s best for our family and it doesn’t matter what you see someone on the Internet doing!
I came upon the magic schoolhouse in the third grade, when it felt like a huge accomplishment to finish a chapter book, and LOVED them through fifth grade.
I love these videos! I have two toddlers who honestly would be happy with just getting candy canes lol. But this is such a helpful guide for buying Christmas gifts and I will definitely be using in the years to come.
We love MTH! My son reads two books in a day sometimes- a huge hit and great recommendation! Also, I just have to say thank you for the Christmas box idea. I am starting that tradition this year for my four (ages 8, 5, 3, and 1). New jammies and hot cocoa mix and their holiday mugs- so exciting ✨
Thanks for sharing. I love seeing what you pick up for your kids. I also buy advent calendars after christmas for the next year. I also bought most of my kids toys at yard sales or palet sales this year. Example the hot wheels ultimate garage for 8 dollars. So thrifting saves alot of money. I also do similar catergories as well.
I’ve been following you for years and have known I’ve wanted to do a December box with my kids! My oldest is 2 (my twins are 8 months so it’s not really for them this time lol) and yesterday I bought the box itself from a thrift store! I’m so excited 💖 I’ve been collecting stuff the past couple years (going after Christmas and buying the lil crafts and things for super cheap!) and I’m so excited to do it this year 😍
There are currently 39 Magic Tree House books in the set that's aimed at younger readers (#39 just came out in May - it's about the Przewalski's horses and their comeback from almost total extinction (I did multiple projects during my time in school on the world's only existing true wild horse, so they hold a special place in my heart)), 27 in the set that's aimed at slightly older readers (called the Merlin Missions after the renumbering happened), and one Super Edition (about D-Day) that's aimed at slightly even older readers. I love the history/mystery/mythology/lore that's packed into each one, so I'm completely unashamed to say that I own every single one on audiobook, purely for my own personal enjoyment, and I'm only a couple years younger than you - I listen all the way through all of them at least a couple times a year. Speaking to the season length, it technically goes all the way until February 2nd - Candlemas. My family has always done the 12 Days of Christmas, so we each have a present to open every day during that time (there's only 4 of us, so it works) - sometimes is just something small (e.g. a calendar book), other times it's something bigger (e.g. an air purifier). My current house is the first place that I've lived that had more than one bedroom, so several of my gifts last Christmas and this Christmas have been about helping me stock the guest room with the linens etc. that I need when I have overnight guests. We've tried to always do wish lists, so that people would at least have some idea of what we would like, but even so, we used to get all sorts of things that we never ended up using, so the last few years (ever since my parents really started decluttering their house) we've really tried to stick to the contents of those lists, though occasionally we still get something that wasn't on our list that we still end up loving. And we don't do a December box (though I love the concept and I'm glad others do it), but our stockings are what my mom uses to put our St. Nick's Day treats/etc. in (it used to be our shoes when we were younger, but with my sister being your age, and me 2 years younger and living out of state, our stockings have taken on that role). I personally don't decorate my house for different seasons because my visual clutter threshold is so extremely low that my brain can't tolerate it, but I'm always at my parents' for Christmas, and they do decorate (including the Christmas tree - my sister is always in charge of putting it up and decorating it), so my mom lets me keep my very small curated collection of Christmas ornaments and my one Nativity set there, so I still get to decorate without it overwhelming my brain.
Loved this video, Natalie! I can totally relate with Judah! I absolutely love pigs 🐖! We had butcher pigs this year and even though they served a purpose they were the cutest! I also would absolutely love to get a pot belly pig for indoors but I'm still working on the hubby with that one! 😂 We built our home so our floors are very new and little piggies hooves would most likely scratch it up pretty bad! Lol
Love your Christmas videos! Curious did your family growing up take turns opening presents or did everyone just go for it at once? What do you do with your kids?
I appreciate this video. We've always stuck to a limited amount of gifts for our daughter (8) that go under the: want, need, wear, read... however, my father in law and my mother died within two weeks back in May and I very stupidly started buying holiday gifts not long after. We've ended up with more gifts than we'd normally like to be giving and your video was a nice reset before our daughter's birthday which is in january!
We are starting a December box with our 5 month old this year inspired by you. I'm also including some fabric envelopes with dates with Mummy and Daddy in, coffee shop dates and crafting adventures thing that we would probably do anyway but making them more intentional and special. I know she won't know this year but it's exciting getting to start the tradition after waiting for so long. 😍🌲
First time watching your show. This has been fun. I enjoyed it. Just Fyi if you contact Lego and let them know what pieces are missing, they will replace at no charge. Thank you for the good iseas
We have an awesome local buy nothing. I’ve gotten my kids free new or almost new items for Christmas. I also love being able to pass on things we no longer use. ❤
I love finding second hand American Girl toys, my oldest is getting her first doll this year and I found Samantha's table and chair set at the thrift shop for only $9 a couple of months ago. I'm so excited to wrap them up.
Opie looks so much like a havanese! I have one so I have a soft spot for that breed. Did you ever figure out what he is? As always, I love your videos! You are a bright spot on the internet and so beautiful! I love your love for your family and the Lord!
Hi Iam possum from Sydney Australia and I just found your channel i think buying second hand is a awesome idea and the Christmas box is so nice wishing you and your family a merry Christmas and a safe and peaceful new year much love possum 😊
When you were talking about Hailey I thought you were going to say, “She’ll play with the bugs and the dirt, while doing it all in a dress.” 😅 I would LOVE to see how you guys organize all the legos. We have an IKEA cabinet, like yours in your homeschool room. We put all the different set in their own ziplock bag and then into the cabinet. It works but we’re quickly running out of space.
These are sweet gifts! I can still do simple for my 7 year old, but my 11 year old only wants a few things - real gold chain necklace and upgraded 3D printer and a Nike TechGear outfit. 😂
Thank you for sharing! I was excited when you brought up the Magic Tree House set. My son is getting to the age he is growing out of the little kids books and needs a little bit more advanced stories. I decided to try this series out with him- just got the first 4 books yesterday for Christmas for him :)
I really like your Christmas gift format for your children. I was watching another video earlier and the number of toys each child was getting was ridiculous. Its's like the parents have forgotten what we are celebrating.
I love all your videos! Thank you for sharing! Your Christmas box can be fixed with gorilla tape, then use some Christmas paper to cover the tape. Fold the ends under and you will not even know.
The Magic Treehouse Merlin Missions are a little higher reading level just so you know 😊 I actually got this one for my son for Christmas even though he's only 7- I've got him hooked on them as well! They were my favorites to read as a kid. I also thrifted the Merlin Missions box from ebay, never read, books 1-27, for $28! I turned it over and the original price tag was $162. Such a steal!
Help please! This Grami needs doll hair tips. What do you do to get the hair nice again? I have a fabric doll with synthetic hair that needs major help. It was my daughter’s doll and now my granddaughter is fascinated by it but… her hair feels weird.🤷🏼♀️💇🏻♀️ Thank you.
This is one of my favorite videos every year from you ❤ We have saved so much over the years by thrifting! My boys have really started to enjoy it when they realize how much further their money goes compared to target!
I am loving all your Christmas videos! ❤ I remember watching when the kids were younger too. Finding gifts is so fun especially as a mom. I also love how much you thrift I love it too and I agree about the nostalgia of decorations!
I thrifted two duplo train sets for my daughters this christmas. And I knitted a stuffed animal (with clothes) for each of them 😊 I hope they will appreciate it. Also thinking I am going to get them a baby doll each. We had some cloth dolls, but the kids aren't really interested in them, but freaked out over a plastic doll 😅
Just yesterday I bought some cookbooks and vintage Pyrex for my SIL! I was chatting with the cashier and she asked if my SIL would be upset that they’re used and honestly I think she prefers pre-loved things! They have a story and life that you get to appreciate and enjoy ❤
We loved magic treehouse! Oh this brings back memories!
OMG YES!! Can we start to normalize thrifted gifts?? Not only is astronomically cheaper than retail, but the amount of unique one of a kind things, not to mention often times, better quality then what’s out in retail stores today. I will thrift gifts occasionally if I know the person is into that. Also, I collect vintage Pyrex and vintage cookbooks and would LOVE receiving these as gifts, I hope your SIL enjoys them!! 😊
Both myself and my partner love pre-loved, as does my mum!! Isn't it interesting that something from fifteen years ago is considered second hand and folks turn their nose up at it, but the same thing from one hundred years previously is an antique or collectable just because it's worth more? Folks are weirdly snobby about secondhand items.
My kids are a doing a gift swap with their cousins and I made it a point to state that we’re okay with thrifted gifts! Especially things like books - we love books but they’re ridiculously priced brand new!
Girl, I just want you to know that I DO NOT watch anyone’s ads anymore but I DO watch yours. They’re always so cute 😭🫶🏽
I’m not a parent, but being an aunt, one of my favourite things is seeing how my niece and nephew’s interests change each year and selecting Christmas gifts to match! I always do something to read as well, plus a small toy each. Gift giving is such a joyous thing, especially at Christmas ❤
We give 1 gift each from the big red guy, Mom & Dad, & each sibling. We have the kids pick out their gifts to eachother as they become old enough to do so, same with 1 gift from all the kids together to each parent. Then the kids get stockings with a couple treats, a book, & a couple small gifts. We start thinking about what to get them in the Summer & we try to make very mindful purchases that they will actually love & use. Sometimes my husband sneaks an extra gift in there 😅 But I like to think we do Christmas very mindfully while still making it exciting & magical.
The December box is something I've incorporated into our Christmas traditions and I love it so much! We get the box out the weekend after Thanksgiving, when we start decorating the house. We have cookie mix to make, hot chocolate, Christmas pj's and all our Christmas books. I'm so excited for my 5 year old to see it this year!
Same! After I saw Natalie do this a few years in a row, once we had our own kiddos I also made it part of our tradition as well ❤
I love the intentionality behind finding a handful of gifts for each person rather than buying a ton of less meaningful things for the sake of having a lot to open. That’s what we did this year as well- second hand/thrift, consumable specialty snacks, and thoughtful items for each person. 💛
These are great gifts. I think sometimes it's good for kids to read books that are below their reading level, as long as that's not all they're reading. It builds their confidence as a reader, improves reading speed, and can be a great way to just let them engage and enjoy the story without it being a challenge, which will just help them love reading.
I absolutely agree! I think it’s one of the main reasons they love these magic treehouse books so much. Easy reads with fun storylines.
Totally agree xxx
So agreed. My (now 18 yo) daughter had a fifth grade teacher that was so rude to her one day bc she was reading a series that was “beneath her”. It was embarrassing and humiliating for her. She was already reading at a high level but read that series for pure enjoyment. I wrote a scathing letter to the teacher who ended up apologizing but the damage was done. My daughter still doesn’t read for fun and that is a negative core memory for her. 😢 she’s been considering picking up a book recently tho
I agree. I read whatever I wanted when I was young.
I'm an avid reader now & I started with, "The Magic Treehouse", "Junie B Jones", & "The Bailey School Kids". So glad to see kids still love these!!!! 🥰
I love how you incorporate secondhand gifts into your kids' Christmas! It’s such a thoughtful way to celebrate while being budget-friendly and environmentally conscious. Your kids are going to be so excited with all these surprises! 🎄✨
We are also doing our own rendition of the 4 Gift Rule. Our little will be 13 months old, and we are excited to start our own Christmas traditions.
I grew up with getting lots of Christmas gifts (dozens each year), and I had a hard time appreciating them I'm excited to give my family fewer, quality gifts while focusing on our family
I absolutely love the idea of giving second hand. You and I are kindred spirits in that we cherish antiques and using items to their full potential, even if they need a little love. Hoping I find some gems when I go looking for my kids 🫶🏻
I always get my boys books on their birthdays and Christmas. It has become a tradition for a few years now and my boys love it! My 12 year old loves reading graphic novels and my 8 year old is into Dogman and Captain underpants. I think it's a great way to instill the love of reading as an avid reader myself.
I love adding Christmas crafts to the December box that they can grab and make throughout the month as well!
Sooo fun!!!
So nice to see your smiling face pop up in my UA-cam. Merry Christmas and happy new year to you and your family!!❤
I don’t watch a lot of UA-cam anymore but I look forward to this video every year!
Natalie - your home looks absolutely STUNNING! Your sense of style is impeckable.
Always great. Thank you Natalie! And good job being so far ahead of the game with having everything bought.
I have one idea to share with the UA-cam family - I do the photos of "I wants" all year long and save them in a Gift Ideas album on my phone. Then I compile lists for bdays and Xmas. I put sizes, favorite colors....on everyone's list then I give each family member that buys gifts for them their own "only on your list" set of things. Usually three things on each "exclusive list".
That way 1.) the boys don't get everything and 2.) family doesn't have to ask me 10x "is anyone else getting this...?"
They are so appreciative and I'm glad that the kids are getting things they've wanted throughout the year.
It’s a tradition for me to watch this video of yours every year!
Your hair grew back fast. Looks nice. And by the way, you are a wonderful Mother! So thoughtful and kind. Your kids are very lucky. And you are lucky to have Westin, but that's a story for another time. LOL.
"Girliest tomboy" is EXACTLY how I described my daughter to someone just a few days ago!! So I know exactly what you mean lol
I always describe my girls as princesses in mud puddles.
This is one of my favorite videos of the Christmas season every year!💗🎄
You are the reason. I gave myself permission to get thrifted/used items. I got a few thrifted clothing items this year for Christmas for my girls.
Love, love, love this video! I love how you keep it reasonable and intentional. We do similar things like buying second hand or limiting it to just 4-5 things. Christmas can be just as magical that way. I'm going to keep those food kit ideas in mind for when my kids are a bit older. They would love those! Plus its something the whole family will enjoy the result of.
You are so thoughtful about your kids gifts.
I think the Lego advent calendar is something I'm going to check out for my son-in-law for next year.
The December box is a wonderful idea.
My daughter and I used to get Christmas jamies. We stopped for some reason, but we're talking about doing it again. I'm 71 and she is 40.
Love your videos.
Those are great categories for gifts!!! My categories are something big, something they asked for/want, something to read, something for their minds, something they need, something they collect, a surprise gift, a game of some sort, something physical/outdoors, and a gift card. I don't mind getting second hand, either. Klutz books are a hit in our home!!!
Thanks for sharing ❤❤❤ I did something different this year lost my 2 son in January 29 2023 and I made all pillows out of my son dress clothes. To his bothers and sisters and sister in law. And got the kids made teddy bears wirh a tshirt wirh a memory verse on it .thanks for showing me we didn't have spent lots of money love your channel merry Christmas to you all and God bless you all ❤ and happy that to you all .
I’m so very sorry for this tragic loss. Keeping you in my prayers this holiday season.♥️
Thanks again love you videos be safe please ❤❤❤❤❤
Magic treehouse!! Oh my gosh, that brought me back to my childhood! I hope they love them!!
Love the december box! Thank you for freely sharing your tips 💕 I think I’ll start looking for gifts second hand! I do for myself but have never given to others. Will start hunting for our kids for next year :)
I bought the Magic Tree House books for my kids years ago. All of them have enjoyed them!
Hi Natalie! I love the little jungle idea! I have a 3yr old granddaughter, that's ready tiny & petite, that sounds alot like Hayley! She truly thinks she's a princess & loves all the frilly & pretty clothes. But she'll Erin outside barefoot picking up worms & bugs & does a good job keeping up with he 5yr old brother.😄 I think everyone loves the squish mellows! All my grandkids have them & my son, who's married & has a 1yr old, bought me one couple years ago.😄 But I have A pillow i use in the car when we travel that's just a round pillow but has that same inside as a squish mellow & its so comfy! My husband loves it too. I so agree, experience gifts are the best! We did that with my son write a few times when he was young & growing up. That was always his favorite gift. When he was about 7 or 8 he was really into wrestling, we did big event wrestling tickets one yes. He's always been into hunting, one year the jiffy was a trip to Ohio for a big 3 night youth hunt that was videoed, there was a deep sea fishing trip one year and several others. He was always elated & that brought me & his dad so much joy!🥹 The one treating i started with my oilseeds, then with my son.. they're over 13yrs apart, sand then with all my grandkids is.. we all sleep in the same room. And when we get up on Christmas morning whoever wakes up first wakes the rest. We all so in the bed, my husband tell of the real meaning for Christmas & then we sing happy birthday to Jesus before we go out of the room! But Oh yes we celebrate him all year, everyday. Enjoyed the video, thanks for sharing! I pray your family will have a blessed & Happy Thanksgiving!🙏🏻🦃
Literally sitting here watching your video after the kids went to bed making our family perler bead creations for Christmas 😅 I got my daughter her first kit after hearing from you a few weeks ago that Hailey likes them, and now I keep making them, too! 🥰
I am just a student, but I will definitely be starting a december box tradition when I have a house and a family - absolutley love the idea! 🙌🏻
I'm in the camp that all reading is good reading! Who cares what level if that's what they're into!
I think you’ve figured out the perfect formula! I want to follow your steps when I have children!!
I LOVE the idea of a December box ❤ so smart to stock it a year in advance
I loved magic tree house growing up! My mom always worked it into my homeschool as well! They used to have a website where you could answer a few questions about the book and earn a “passport stamp” you could print out! It was super fun!
The roller derby girl in me LOVES that Haley wants roller skates. My wheels light up too on my skates ❤. Skating feels like FLYING 🛼
I'm doing the December/Christmas box for the first time this year. I have 5 boys, and with money being tight this is a great idea. Thanks for sharing Natalie. 😊
We just found the whole set of Magic Treehouse books at a yard sale for 50 cents a piece! It was such a huge score. My 6 year old started reading them and she loves them! I loved them as a kid too.
Have you listened to The Magic Treehouse podcast?! My kids LOVE listening to them in the car. Even if they’ve read the books the mom and dad who do the podcast make it so much fun for kids to listen to again 🙃
Holtzem Family Reads. I found them on Spotify.
I always buy my sons advent calendar after Christmas much cheaper. I hope your family enjoy the holidays. I love watching your what I got my kids for Christmas vid.
Love what you chose to give to your kids this year for Christmas and your Christmas box. Cute pj’s for the kids. Love the reindeer print.
That is incredible gift. My son loved these. We would read together.
Always enjoy your yearly gift videos! Question - where are your earrings from? So cute!
Loved your video. I did similar for my twins when they were children. My kiddos did not care if things were second hand. I raised them going to a consignment shop up our street. And to this day, they don't care if things are thrifted.
I love how minimal you are with gifts. I have downsized a lot. This year I wanted to keep to 5 gifts per kid but I have more like 8. I hope next year I can keep it to 4-5.
I’m glad you enjoyed the video! My biggest hesitation with posting anything like this is that people will compare inevitably. But we all have the freedom to do what’s best for our family and it doesn’t matter what you see someone on the Internet doing!
@ agreed. I find it inspiring and encouraging that we don’t need to spend a lot of lonely and get a whole bunch of stuff. I love your channel.
I came upon the magic schoolhouse in the third grade, when it felt like a huge accomplishment to finish a chapter book, and LOVED them through fifth grade.
My children are grown up bug i love your gift guides as we have friends with children if a similar age x
So fun, your kids will be so happy and excited to open these presents. I always love how intentional you are about each gift. Thanks for sharing
I love these videos! I have two toddlers who honestly would be happy with just getting candy canes lol. But this is such a helpful guide for buying Christmas gifts and I will definitely be using in the years to come.
I have my kids buy my christmas gifts from the thrift. And I purchase lots of second hand things for family and they always love it.
We love MTH! My son reads two books in a day sometimes- a huge hit and great recommendation! Also, I just have to say thank you for the Christmas box idea. I am starting that tradition this year for my four (ages 8, 5, 3, and 1). New jammies and hot cocoa mix and their holiday mugs- so exciting ✨
Thanks for sharing. I love seeing what you pick up for your kids. I also buy advent calendars after christmas for the next year. I also bought most of my kids toys at yard sales or palet sales this year. Example the hot wheels ultimate garage for 8 dollars. So thrifting saves alot of money. I also do similar catergories as well.
I’ve been following you for years and have known I’ve wanted to do a December box with my kids! My oldest is 2 (my twins are 8 months so it’s not really for them this time lol) and yesterday I bought the box itself from a thrift store! I’m so excited 💖 I’ve been collecting stuff the past couple years (going after Christmas and buying the lil crafts and things for super cheap!) and I’m so excited to do it this year 😍
You should get like a wood box made and decorate it together so that it can be your permanent "December box"
There are currently 39 Magic Tree House books in the set that's aimed at younger readers (#39 just came out in May - it's about the Przewalski's horses and their comeback from almost total extinction (I did multiple projects during my time in school on the world's only existing true wild horse, so they hold a special place in my heart)), 27 in the set that's aimed at slightly older readers (called the Merlin Missions after the renumbering happened), and one Super Edition (about D-Day) that's aimed at slightly even older readers. I love the history/mystery/mythology/lore that's packed into each one, so I'm completely unashamed to say that I own every single one on audiobook, purely for my own personal enjoyment, and I'm only a couple years younger than you - I listen all the way through all of them at least a couple times a year.
Speaking to the season length, it technically goes all the way until February 2nd - Candlemas. My family has always done the 12 Days of Christmas, so we each have a present to open every day during that time (there's only 4 of us, so it works) - sometimes is just something small (e.g. a calendar book), other times it's something bigger (e.g. an air purifier). My current house is the first place that I've lived that had more than one bedroom, so several of my gifts last Christmas and this Christmas have been about helping me stock the guest room with the linens etc. that I need when I have overnight guests. We've tried to always do wish lists, so that people would at least have some idea of what we would like, but even so, we used to get all sorts of things that we never ended up using, so the last few years (ever since my parents really started decluttering their house) we've really tried to stick to the contents of those lists, though occasionally we still get something that wasn't on our list that we still end up loving.
And we don't do a December box (though I love the concept and I'm glad others do it), but our stockings are what my mom uses to put our St. Nick's Day treats/etc. in (it used to be our shoes when we were younger, but with my sister being your age, and me 2 years younger and living out of state, our stockings have taken on that role). I personally don't decorate my house for different seasons because my visual clutter threshold is so extremely low that my brain can't tolerate it, but I'm always at my parents' for Christmas, and they do decorate (including the Christmas tree - my sister is always in charge of putting it up and decorating it), so my mom lets me keep my very small curated collection of Christmas ornaments and my one Nativity set there, so I still get to decorate without it overwhelming my brain.
Loved this video, Natalie! I can totally relate with Judah! I absolutely love pigs 🐖! We had butcher pigs this year and even though they served a purpose they were the cutest! I also would absolutely love to get a pot belly pig for indoors but I'm still working on the hubby with that one! 😂 We built our home so our floors are very new and little piggies hooves would most likely scratch it up pretty bad! Lol
I love this. I must admit I went way overboard with my two who are only 4 & 2. I just get so excited.
Haha that’s totally ok! Every year looks a little different and comparison is the thief of joy!
Love your Christmas videos! Curious did your family growing up take turns opening presents or did everyone just go for it at once? What do you do with your kids?
I appreciate this video. We've always stuck to a limited amount of gifts for our daughter (8) that go under the: want, need, wear, read... however, my father in law and my mother died within two weeks back in May and I very stupidly started buying holiday gifts not long after. We've ended up with more gifts than we'd normally like to be giving and your video was a nice reset before our daughter's birthday which is in january!
i love the december box idea! especially since i already have their advent calendars and their pajamas!
We are starting a December box with our 5 month old this year inspired by you. I'm also including some fabric envelopes with dates with Mummy and Daddy in, coffee shop dates and crafting adventures thing that we would probably do anyway but making them more intentional and special. I know she won't know this year but it's exciting getting to start the tradition after waiting for so long. 😍🌲
Coffee dates for a baby. Sounds like it’s for mom and dad.
That is awesome!
I love your Christmas box idea!! It’s just the sweetest!
I look forward to your videos every week, especially around the holiday season! Thank you!!!
First time watching your show. This has been fun. I enjoyed it. Just Fyi if you contact Lego and let them know what pieces are missing, they will replace at no charge. Thank you for the good iseas
10 and 7. What? I’ve been watching you since before I had my own kids. 😂 I now have 3 children. 6y girl, 3y girl and 2y boy.
I absolutely love your thoughtful gift giving. Your kids are going to be so happy😊🎄
Love the thrifting idea. Going to try and get the rest of my gifts thrifted.
We have an awesome local buy nothing. I’ve gotten my kids free new or almost new items for Christmas. I also love being able to pass on things we no longer use. ❤
I love finding second hand American Girl toys, my oldest is getting her first doll this year and I found Samantha's table and chair set at the thrift shop for only $9 a couple of months ago. I'm so excited to wrap them up.
The Magic Tree House books sound really interesting. Something I would like to read myself😂.
Love this! So fun. December box is amazing, what a great idea! ☺️
Opie looks so much like a havanese! I have one so I have a soft spot for that breed. Did you ever figure out what he is? As always, I love your videos! You are a bright spot on the internet and so beautiful! I love your love for your family and the Lord!
Awesome video Natalie! Your kids are going to love all their gifts! Hope you all have a blessed Thanksgiving!
You look Lovely in this video. I thoroughly enjoyed the video even though we are a different religion and dont celebrate Christmas.
Hi Iam possum from Sydney Australia and I just found your channel i think buying second hand is a awesome idea and the Christmas box is so nice wishing you and your family a merry Christmas and a safe and peaceful new year much love possum 😊
Yay, I love your gift choices! You introduced me to the Minecraft lego houses last year and they are still my boys' favorites! Thanks for sharing!!
When you were talking about Hailey I thought you were going to say, “She’ll play with the bugs and the dirt, while doing it all in a dress.” 😅
I would LOVE to see how you guys organize all the legos. We have an IKEA cabinet, like yours in your homeschool room. We put all the different set in their own ziplock bag and then into the cabinet. It works but we’re quickly running out of space.
These are sweet gifts! I can still do simple for my 7 year old, but my 11 year old only wants a few things - real gold chain necklace and upgraded 3D printer and a Nike TechGear outfit. 😂
They sell the same Christmas Box at Hobby Lobby, at least at the one I live by 😊 in case the box ends up needing to be replaced sometime soon!
I have to say I have thought so much about how you bought second hand for them last year I believe! I purchased all my husbands gifts off eBay!
Thank you for sharing! I was excited when you brought up the Magic Tree House set. My son is getting to the age he is growing out of the little kids books and needs a little bit more advanced stories. I decided to try this series out with him- just got the first 4 books yesterday for Christmas for him :)
I really like your Christmas gift format for your children. I was watching another video earlier and the number of toys each child was getting was ridiculous. Its's like the parents have forgotten what we are celebrating.
I love all your videos! Thank you for sharing! Your Christmas box can be fixed with gorilla tape, then use some Christmas paper to cover the tape. Fold the ends under and you will not even know.
The Magic Treehouse Merlin Missions are a little higher reading level just so you know 😊 I actually got this one for my son for Christmas even though he's only 7- I've got him hooked on them as well! They were my favorites to read as a kid. I also thrifted the Merlin Missions box from ebay, never read, books 1-27, for $28! I turned it over and the original price tag was $162. Such a steal!
Help please! This Grami needs doll hair tips. What do you do to get the hair nice again? I have a fabric doll with synthetic hair that needs major help. It was my daughter’s doll and now my granddaughter is fascinated by it but… her hair feels weird.🤷🏼♀️💇🏻♀️ Thank you.
Happy Thanksgiving to you and your Dear Family 💜 Hugs from Northern Minnesota 💓
This is one of my favorite videos every year from you ❤ We have saved so much over the years by thrifting! My boys have really started to enjoy it when they realize how much further their money goes compared to target!
I love your gift categories and December box idea! I got my boys that lego advent calendar from Aldi last year. They loved it :) Happy Thanksgiving!
Can you link your christmas tree. Love it!!
Awesome video, Thank you for sharing! Many Blessings to you and your family Stay Safe and Well *ellen on husband's account*
Fantastic gifts!
I love how you look for second-hand items! I am too this year with the Our Generation dolls & accessories 😊
I am loving all your Christmas videos! ❤ I remember watching when the kids were younger too. Finding gifts is so fun especially as a mom. I also love how much you thrift I love it too and I agree about the nostalgia of decorations!
Love your gift selections.
Your earrings are so pretty! Where did you get them?
Love ❤ You ideas
I thrifted two duplo train sets for my daughters this christmas. And I knitted a stuffed animal (with clothes) for each of them 😊 I hope they will appreciate it. Also thinking I am going to get them a baby doll each. We had some cloth dolls, but the kids aren't really interested in them, but freaked out over a plastic doll 😅
Of course they were excited about a real doll.
I call my daughter my Rough and Tumble Princess because she is the same!! Out in the dirt in her princess dresses 😂
I love buying second hand!