The beginning of November marks a very important time of the year-- Christmas shopping! If you're anything like me, you love giving your friends and family gifts. And it's not about the "Thank you," the "Oh, you shouldn't have done that," or even the "You're so sweet." It's about the smile that comes across their face when they feel how loved and cared for they are. I love buying/crafting gifts for the ones I hold dear to me for that simple reason.

I know a lot of people who get wrapped up in thinking about the inevitable amount of money they will spend, or how they don't have time to go out and shop, etc. But the way I see it is gift shopping should not become a burden. It should be something you enjoy because you enjoy giving to others. You enjoy seeing them light up with a smile.

So what's the solution? I know money is tight sometimes. Take my word for it, I'm a college student. Last year, one of my sweet friends made me a Christmas ornament with my initial painted on it. Another friend baked me goodies because she knows the way to my heart. Giving gifts does not have to be an extravagant burden that weighs you down, because honestly, that ruins Christmas for everyone.

Another way to save money when shopping is to go ahead and start. Seriously, you probably should've started like yesterday. Please, please, please do not try to wait and get it all on Black Friday. It's a trap. I planned last year to make one of my friends a memory picture frame (kind of like a shadow box) and I progressively brought things throughout the months of November and December as they were put on sale at Hobby Lobby.

As far as not having time goes, I definitely understand that too. I guess it's a good thing that online shopping has basically taken over the world. Shop online during your lunch break, in between classes, when you can't sleep at night, or while you're watching some TV. And if you can't come up with the funds to online shop and also don't have the time, cooking is always a great alternative. Tastemade has some great recipes for holiday goodies!

So this Christmas season, whatever you do, give with a joyful heart. Don't let the stress of the lack of time, the stress of a tight budget, or not knowing exactly what to give someone ruin your holiday season.