How are you all getting on with your shopping?!

[incontrolofmyownlife]

DH and I went Christmas shopping yesterday and made a really big dent in it! I'm happy with what we've got going on holiday next month and wanted it all done and wrapped before we went if possible.

Only thing I need now is some wrapping paper to make a start but doesn't look like anywhere has it in yet? I got some from Wilko last year that I liked so will try there again I think.

I can't work out whether it's better to start now or just save the money and buy later.... But then it gets a bit of a rush!

I bought advent calendars yesterday (traditional cardboard ones, no plastic waste) so at least that is a start!

I already have some big lego sets for each dc as I was able to get second-hand (though they are new and sealed). I have a bunch of other little bits and pieces that I have picked up as and when I saw them.

I also have a list waiting for my next pay to be ordered, which will mean that the dc are pretty much done. No ideas for the adults yet!

I’ve actually got quite a bit done. Only 1/2 presents left to get for DD’s.

We only buy for grandparents and they’re all having money this year to go towards various larger items they want, although I haven’t actually put all of the money aside yet I have my plan. They are all having their yearly calendar of the DC which I never do until November time.

I have got birthday presents for my DD (Christmas baby) and even the boxes of biscuits for our elderly neighbours.

DH just needs to wrap it all now - I buy he wraps because I absolutely hate wrapping

My eldest dc is done, need 1 more item for my 2 youngers ones. A couple of bits to get for dh & then its just family & stockings. I'll do a few bits each payday to spread it out. I am cutting down this year though. Less for my children & less on my family.

I have quite a few stocking bits for my DD(2) but havent got her a "big" present yet. I would like to get her a wooden doctor or vet set, or maybe playmobil but I want to wait until I find something on offer as it is very expensive at full price.

I haven’t bought much yet as what my kids are in to changes too often to buy more than a month in advance! I’m starting to pick up some of the little bits and bobs that go with the main presents. I’ve been getting ready by clearing out all of the old and broken toys that can’t be passed on and have started a bag to take to the charity shop. I’ve also found zillions of half used packs of cards from previous years so I’m going to try to use those up this year rather than buying more!

Still need to get DD her big present and a few little bits but other than that, she's done I think. Haven't got anyone anything apart from DD!😬

I am further ahead than usual: have bought DH's present sorted and got DS's fully mapped out to buy in next few weeks. Festive afternoon tea booked back in June and got time off to attend a carol concert (DS now at secondary and they provide adequate notice of events where primary never did).

Usually fill the hamper in Oct when the German discounters get their Christmas stuff in, will make sure I get this done asap this year, in view of bollocks which we all know about and I won't name here. Need to get wrapping box down from loft soon to work out what wrap and cards I need to top up (think I'm good for wrapping paper, but I might be deceiving myself). It's not much, but I usually haven't got much beyond lists at this point.

Next have some wrapping paper and cards in near the tills ☺️. I've bought quite a bit for my DD already,just need to really get some more stocking things and bits for her advent calendar. She would like Apple AirPods as her main this year so will get them closer to Christmas for the warranty. Also got my DH quite a few presents already but again need stocking items, ☺️

I have got stocking fillers, main presents and a few extras for DS who's 3rd birthday is Christmas week but will wait for the last few bits until nearer the time incase he is into anything in particular.

I've got all stocking fillers done for dd2 and a couple of books. Also waiting for her to see what she wants for main nearer the time because she keeps changing her mind.

I've got a couple of stocking fillers and a gift each for dd1 and dh.

And I've got all 3 kids Christmas Eve pyjamas.

Wow @livingthegoodlife that speaker looks great. I've wanted something to play audible books in DD6's room, and was contemplating an Alexa or a Toniebox but I think this vtech one seems more appropriate. I don't think we'd use the radio or the party games but I like that it takes an SD card, I could buy stories on Amazon and load stories from my phone to an SD card. I expect it would be able to connect to the Alexa in my bedroom next door for music too, or I could just load a separate SD card with music.

We do it all online - DH and I split the list and get everything ordered at the beginning of December. Rarely go in actual shops. Will book online food shop as soon as the slots become available. What food we have may depend on Brexit!

@rosie1959 It's over 3 months to Christmas load and loads of time why on Earth would anyone panic totally confused

Gosh. How ignorant. Many many people would not have enough disposable income to wait until the last 3 paydays. When you are on a low income then putting money aside instead means you will miss most of the best offers before the November/December price hike, and there is a good chance you will blow the money on an emergency you'd saved.

@Parker231, I have all of the stuff like biscuits, crisps etc for Christmas already. Just in case the B-word affects it!

I also have loads of baking ingredients so can rustle up all sorts of treats at the drop of a hat.

I have plenty of booze as well. 😂🎅🏻