Holiday Tips
Happy New Year, Shoppers!
Are you ready for a new start? Ready to put the past behind you? Turning over a new leaf? My husband likes to joke and say he’s turning over a whole tree. I think that’s because it feels like an overwhelming effort he’s making, and turning a leaf, or a page just doesn’t convey... »
The Week Between
I like the week between Christmas and New Years. It’s kind of a limbo land to me. The supreme rush of Christmas is over, the packages distributed, the visiting accomplished, the expectations met. Another successful Christmas has come to pass. The warm glow of the holidays surrounds me. The decorations are still prettily dressing... »
After Christmas Sales
If I lived closer to civilization I would be out shopping the After Christmas Sales. I would start by buying ribbon, wrapping paper, and cards. These items are all discounted 50% or more. I would also look for decorations. I collect Santa Clauses, all kinds, from ceramics figures, to mugs, to fabric or wooden... »
Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree
Today I’m buying a Christmas tree. Can you believe it? It is late, but what’s Christmas without a Christmas tree? Have you ever noticed the widely differing views people have about Christmas trees? Here are just a few issues I’m sure you’ve addressed already this season. When to put the tree up How much to spend... »
Tip #5 Gift Cards
Why and how gift cards work: 1. You can get any kind of gift card you want, from an all purpose Visa or Mastercard, to a site specific card for favorite stores or restaurants 2. Gift cards are so easy to find, and buy. You can buy them at the grocery store, online, or at the... »
9 Days ’til Christmas….
It’s not too late to send those Christmas gifts. In fact, today would be the right day to get them off. It’s not too late to send out your Christmas cards. It may be the smartest thing to do in a recession year, in spite of budget cuts. It’s not too late to ask family and... »
The Fine Line
The current economic situation has forced many of us to think hard about our spending habits and inclinations. The “devil may care” way we once had of spending has gone the way of all things and been replaced by a hard look at value for purchase. Gone are the days when I budgeted forward,... »
Stocking Stuffers
I don’t know how big the Christmas stockings are at your house, but if they are anything like mine, Santa’s costs to stuff them add up. Over the years I developed a couple of budget hints to help Santa out. A stocking needs: A snack. Most definitely. A little protein to keep up the children’s strength, and give you... »
Halloween Sneaks Up On Me
Saturday, October 31, 2009 Happy Halloween Everybody! I am always caught off guard by this holiday. It seems as though you are either completely immersed in it or you miss it altogether. With very little in between. I think it should be a week long celebration. In fact, I think all of our holidays should... »