Thrifty, Fun, & Unforgettable


September 29, 2023
| 3 Min. Read

It’s the end of September… Cue the overwhelm!

As the holidays inch closer, it's easy to feel like the to-do list is never-ending.
We worry about not having enough time, resources, or funds to make the season bright. But, hold on a minute…
These thoughts of scarcity and fear can lead us astray from what we truly value. Instead of getting bogged down by what we don't have, let's switch it up and focus on the good stuff.

Think it’s too early to be thinking about it?
Don't be fooled by the calendar! Snapping up your holiday plans ahead of time can save you big bucks and offer a smorgasbord of options.


I've made a list of some thrifty and fun holiday activities to make unforgettable memories!

First, something that is so simple and so free...
A daily dose of gratitude can work wonders, reminding us that we have plenty to be thankful for. Plus, it's a powerful way to cultivate an abundance mindset, leading to more generosity and kindness.

Another game-changer? Self-care! It's easy to forget about our own needs during the hustle and bustle, but taking care of our physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being is key to staying sane during the season.

When the holidays are about love and connection, not about keeping up with the Joneses, we can focus on creating a season bursting with meaning and joy. And that is the stuff that makes the best memories of all.

Here are another 10 activities that make great memories, and they keep the focus on fun without busting the bank:

  1. Holiday DVD marathon: Gather your loved ones and spend the day watching your favourite holiday films. Pop some popcorn, make some hot chocolate, and snuggle up under a cozy blanket.
  2. Decorate the house: Get into the holiday spirit by decorating the house with homemade ornaments, garlands, and wreaths. You can also make holiday-themed crafts with your family and friends.
  3. Bake holiday treats: Spend an afternoon baking cookies, cakes, and other treats with your loved ones. Not only is it a fun activity, but you'll also have delicious treats to enjoy afterwards.
  4. Visit a local market: check and see who has the holiday markets that offer unique gifts, crafts, and food. Stroll through the market, visit with the vendors, enjoy the sights and sounds, and pick up unique gifts.
  5. Ice-skating: Be on the lookout for those rinks that offer free or low-cost ice-skating during the holidays. Grab your skates, bundle up, and hit the ice with family and friends.
  6. Game night: Gather and spend the evening playing board games or card games. It's a great way to spend quality time together and have some fun.
  7. Volunteer: The holidays are a great time to give back to your community. Consider volunteering at a local shelter, food bank, or charity.
  8. Winter hike: Bundle up and take a hike through a local park or nature reserve. Enjoy the winter scenery and get some exercise while you're at it.
  9. Host a potluck: Invite your family and friends over for a potluck dinner and encourage them to bring a neighbor or coworker. Everyone can bring a dish to share, and you can enjoy a delicious meal together.
  10. Funny photos: Set up a holiday-themed photo shoot with your loved ones. Use props, costumes, and decorations to create silly, fun, and memorable photos.

These wallet-friendly holiday activity gems can get you started! It's not about the cash you shell out but the memories you craft with your loved ones that count the most.




About the Author

Kristi Rae Millsap MBA is a writer, veteran, and certified, professional Christian coach.

She started consulting in 2012 after earning her MBA in Healthcare Management and getting laid off from her corporate job as a frontend developer and internet marketing analyst. Consulting led to serving in ministry, coaching, and writing.

Kristi enjoys bringing new ideas to life and sharing creative insights to help Christian entrepreneurs learn how to gain more time-freedom to love God with all their heart, mind, and strength.

Kristi is married to Reverend Paul Millsap, and together they shepherd their family of 9 children. Together, they minister in the areas of marriage, re-marriage, divorce, parenting and grandparenting, especially focusing on forgiveness, grace, mercy, and living at peace.

With support from Paul, Kristi also homeschools the family's last child at home in Minnesota. They both love spending time on the road, exploring old towns, connecting with new churches, and visiting their kids' families and 10 grandchildren.




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