The Essex family has always gone big during the Holidays. Parents Sean and Nicole have a five year old son, Jacob, and a three year old daughter, Keira, and love spoiling them. “Every year, I think I am done buying things for them, and then I’ll see something else that I just have to get them,” said Nicole. “It’s just so fun to see how excited they get to open presents and how much they enjoy playing with a new toy, even for just a short time.” The parents estimate they spent about $700 on gifts last year for the kids, and aunts, uncles, and grandparents probably spent another $200. “They get doted on pretty good,” said Sean. It is pretty ridiculous how much they have historically received during the season.” But, the parents promise this year is going to be different. “We realize we are spending way too much money on them,” said Nicole. “Especially for these ages. I mean, they only end up playing with most of the stuff for a very short time. And, they grow out of their clothes pretty quick.” Sean agrees things need to change. “We definitely plan to give more this year,” said Sean. “I mean, five and three year olds don’t need that much stuff, right?” Nicole understands it is going to be tough to not buy every cute clothing item and cool toy. “I already have agreed to cap myself at a certain amount, and then I am done,” said Nicole. “So, for every time I see something, I think, ‘is that great enough to go against my total allowance?’ If not, I have to move on.” Nicole says she has a strong network of friends who are going to help support her during this challenge. “This is going to be really hard for me,” said Nicole. “But, it’s the right thing to do. The right thing to do.”