Holiday Shopping for Tween and Teen BOYS

Ah...the boys! Well, after some hilarious discussion about how they would NOT be getting a million dollars for Christmas or a car or other outrageous gifts, we finally got a real list of potential items for a twelve and thirteen-year-old.

When they reach this age, they know what they want. We find that other people ask us as the parents what our boys want because they are also at a loss. We try to get their lists early so that we can, first, get over the emotional shock, and second, actually see what is affordable.

So here it is:

Twelve-Year-Old

1. Nintendo Switch console
2. Fortnite game for nintendo switch
3. Zelda Breathe of the Wild for nintendo switch
4. Carrying case for nintendo switch
5. Nerf Nemesis
6. Beanbag chair for my room
7. Spygear
8. SD card
9. Hotwheels
10. Beyblades
11. Kpop BTS sneakers (black canvas - RM)

Thirteen-Year-Old

1. Nintendo switch
2. Fortnite game for nintendo (if you get the switch)
3. Money
4. Amazon Fire 10
5. Nerf Nemesis (if you love me)
6. 32 GB SD card (if you get Amazon Fire 10)
7. Wireless earphones (bluetooth please)
8. Giftcards (Amazon, Five Below, Walmart)
9. Cellphone
10. Credit card

It was explained to them that a list is just that, a list. It is not a promise or a contract at all! IF we decide to get you something for the holiday as part of tradition, you will be grateful. We are not trying to raise kids who are demanding, ungrateful and entitled.

As you can see, our older son was much more specific, but copied off his brother too, lol. They often want the same things since they are fifteen months apart. Too cute! After compiling their lists, we attempt to get at least one of the things they really want at a discount or sale. We have even traded toys and gifts with friends who have kids close in age. For instance, last year, Chay got a scooter that was brand new from a friend at church who's kid was no longer interested!! Those run at least $200-$300!

Another idea is for the boys to go online and see how much these things cost. They often will shrink their lists for us once they realize that we don't live like celebrities. It is wisdom to help them to count the costs.

Christmas is about giving anyway, so we also encouraged them to make another list of things they can give away. That one is taking a bit longer! BUT, I do encourage you to follow my instagram stories this December for our instamas vlog through the holidays! www.instagram.com/anitamckaney

Gift-Giving Guide for Christian Couples

Buying gifts for your spouse can be a really fun experience if you know them well. As the holiday season approaches we are all preparing to buy gifts for many people. We have experienced times when gift-giving has been hectic and other times when it has been a joy.

Here are a few tips before we offer you a few of the best deals out there for couples right now.

(This post does contain affiliate links that we may be compensated for if you click them - so we don't mind at all)

1.  Pay attention. Know your spouse well. I know this goes without saying, but when buying gifts you want to take note of what your spouse really loves and what they really do not.

Notice when they smile, when they linger over certain items in the store or make comments. Be a detective and take note!

I really do not like chocolate much, but Maurice used to buy me chocolate all of the time. Once I purchase a men's devotional for Maurice but then realize later that it merely collected dust. These were not good gift choices for us obviously!

2. Be wise.  It is so important that you are on the same page financially with your spouse. Buying gifts can be a pleasure but it can also be a detriment to your finances.

You may need to discipline yourself to save money for a special item, but giving with heart is so much sweeter!

A husband may want to "surprise" the wife with a $5,000 upgrade on her wedding ring which would be very nice, but you could be really surprised that you are still paying for that gift 5 to 20 years later!

One is usually the spender and the other the saver. Plan accordingly. See this post for more on managing your money as a couple.

3.  Ask the Lord for help. As cheesy as that may sound Maurice and I have learned to put God in the center of everything!

God knows your spouse better than you do right? He can direct you. Give gifts that make your spouse better, not harm them. We should never give gifts that will indulge sinful habits or addiction.

Not all gifts are tangible, especially for married couples (as you know)!  your spouse may prefer an experience of sorts rather than a gift that comes in a box.  Get creative with the Creator!

NOW... We have come up with a  few ideas for gifts for engaged or married couples.  It does seem to be getting harder and harder to find things that christian couples can both enjoy, so we have scoured the internet for you and found some amazing deals!

Together Shop



Our new store with two lists: Gifts for Her and Gifts for Him! New items added daily!

OOLA Tea

A great variety of teas infused with healthful essential oils!





*** Every purchase feeds a family and we are proud to support such a giving organization ***

PatPat.org

A clothing site for families.



Christmas Family Outfits up to 70% off - New Customers get 10% off, enter code NEWCUS10, love PatPat

*** With additional purchases, you get higher percentage off coupons! ***

ChurchSource.com

A website for christian books and gifts.





*** Also, get up to 60% OFF couples books, bibles and gifts with our LINK!! ***

Find your spouse a bible, christian T-shirts, mugs, decals and MORE.


We hope that this is helpful to you and your spouse. Wishing you a very Happy ThanksGIVING!!