What's your Christmas Budget?

I think we all go through the same things. A month ago I had decided my children were fine with 10 gifts, now I see more things I want to get for them. It's hard to know when to stop. Granted my children's gifts include things like hats, mittens, socks, underwear, etc etc. They'll really only end up with probably 5 or 6 toys each, the rest being books, clothes, etc. My oldest is 11, and also pretty much outgrowing toys. I've gotten him a K'Nex set, some books, a football. I'm also giving him a used PS2 and buying him used games for it from Game Stop. My children aren't the least bit spoiled, so recieving used items as gifts is good enough for them. I wish you could have seen my oldest last year when he recieved a used game boy that I bought off e-bay for like $10. It was his first ever video game that was just his. Newer game systems are purchased for the family, and he's only allowed to use them with us. You've just got to look at it from their point of view. Will they be truly happy with what they have? I know mine will be happy with what they currently have, so I don't need to get anymore, and probably won't get too much more. I'd just like to try to keep it even for them.

Thanks again. My boys each have their own game system (hand held) we have a PS2 also and like you I love game stop and shop there often, so I don't sweat the used thing there either. We do some clothes too and the boys do like it and they are both grateful, which makes me feel good about they are being raised. Thanks

Kat- see that is another part of this whole thing that I worry about. I don't want to spoil them but I want them to have a nice Christmas and worry that I'm going overboard. What do you think is acceptable or fair to do. The oldest one is quickly outgrowing the toy phase- so its getting more and more expensive every year. Anyway- thanks for responding and happy mylotting!

I know that- we are financially great I just worry that's its not enough compared to what we usually do for the two of them which is more than double that. I have already purchased several things so this would be added to that, I just want them to enjoy their Christmas and wonder what others thought and what others are doing. Thanks for resonding and I hope you have a Merry Christmas.

Sounds like me, so I don't have a budget for Christmas. I have never and this year wont be any different.

Well that puts my mind at ease a little knowning that I am not the only hoping to make Christmas the best I can for my children. Thanks again for responding.