Have a Fun and Frugal Easter

If you're like most of us moms, every year at Easter we look forward to treating our children to large, decorated baskets. Filled to overflowing with candies, chocolate bunnies and lots of toys. Most of us, however. Cannot afford those pre-made things. You know the ones I'm referring to. The ones that cost us 20 dollars a piece and are 80% tape, grass and paper. Now that my kids are grown I don't worry as much as I use to. But being a big holiday person I still want to do something special for them.
There are ways to treat your children without breaking the bank. including many free or inexpensive items that can be used for the traditional Easter basket.
Take a look around your house and see if you have any baskets handy. Most of us do. Empty them out and reuse. Or take a tour of some of the local garage sales or thrift stores. Lots of times you can find baskets for 50 cent or less. Some moms like to use sand pails. Which is a great idea because they can be reused. Unlike the baskets which will be probably end up thrown in the closet somewhere.For older teenagers, fill a shoebox with goodies. Or a grocery bag with there favorite foods.You can even take large plastic bowls you may have lying around the kitchen, fill with there favorite goodies, add some stickers to the outside and viola, you have a creative Easter bowl.To fill these creative and frugal containers, take advantage of the local dollar and everything for $1.00 stores. Where you can find cool toys, candy and surprises for everybody from the young to the adult.

You can also buy candy at times of the year when its on sale. Usually right after a major holiday, such as Halloween. And believe me, the kids will consider it a real treat to get candy with a Halloween or Christmas theme for Easter.Another great idea is to bake up cookies and cupcakes to fill there baskets with freshly made sweet treats there sure to love. Use bright colored frostings and sprinkles. To give them that festive look. For the older kids you can find makeup, perfumes, lotions, jewelry, writing supplies, comic books and other great items for them at a great price. Usually $1.00 or less.
So, as us frugal moms know. Easter can be a great holiday celebrated with lots of treats for the kids. Just remember the most important thing. Easter really isn't about eggs, bunny's, or material goodies. Its about Jesus!