I was bereft last year, the first Christmas with a shredded family. As I was trying to figure out how to make it special with a a severe lack of funds, my ever wise brother chuckled.
"Gypsy, the kids will know that you're the one who's always done it all. The only difference is that Mr. Gypsy won't be signing his name at the last minute."
And you know what? It was fun.
One thing my kids have enjoyed was the hunt for the Santa gift. Some years they'd have to guess who's was who's based on what was drawn on the wrapping, other times.. their favorite, was having to search through the house going from one clue to another until they found the final hiding place. Even then they'd still have to solve which gift was theirs.
One of the funniest times was when they opened their best guesses, all of which were wrong.. an American Girl doll, inline roller skates and something else. It was pretty fun as they tried to wheedle the presents off of the other!
Regardless.. you're clever. Anything that engages your kids brings a special joy. It's not a competition, it's about giving in a way that brings a sparkle to their eyes and a hug to your heart.
