So This Is Christmas

Merry Christmas is such an infectious feeling I like to feel that way all year around.

So if you are visiting just before Christmas, just after Christmas or even here on Christmas day I am sure you will find something of interest for you and in the spirit of Christmas.

It may be said that Christmas is no longer a celebration but this must be spoken by people that have never had trouble closing their eyes on Christmas Eve in an expectation of what maybe left for them on the carpet under the tree.

I continue to look forward to the surprise on my Grandchild's faces to this day at Christmas events.

Merry Christmas - Merry Christmas - Merry Christmas

Thursday, December 4, 2008

Save Money Ideas - Holiday Spending Tips

By Ginnie Wilburn

With the declining stock markets and the crushing low economy, most of us are pressed to look for "save money ideas" for the Christmas season. Our kids are already filled with uncontainable excitement, as the countdown time for Christmas clicks away. Thoughts of Santa Claus, amazing toys, fabulous technology gadgets and sharing fun times fill their minds.

Gift giving is something most all of us love to do. A large number of people would rather give a gift than receive one. The reason is obvious; they love seeing eyes filled with joy and a smile that appears endless as their gift is opened. It is indeed special to give someone a much-loved gift and at the same time be able to use some "save money ideas" in the process.

With just a little advance preparation and foresight, you can embrace these "save money ideas" for the Christmas season. These money ideas are especially for Christmas time: a way to help you save and get the most out of the money you spend.

1. Look at your budget and compose your Christmas shopping list. You will need to take some time to reflect upon your list. After you decide upon the names for your gift list, place an estimated amount by each name based upon your budget constraints. Make it a key point not to go over your budget. This is a critical factor in being successful with "save money ideas."

When you begin your shopping it is likely you will see an item you would love to give but it is not within your budget. Just keep on shopping and remember there are plenty of wonderful gifts lurking around the corner that will work for your budget. Don't be afraid to step outside your normal gift giving items and give something unique. Often these gifts end up being favorites.

2. Don't wait: start shopping now. Starting early with your Christmas shopping let's you miss the crowded malls and you can find real savings with early Christmas sales. Perhaps one of the best "save money ideas" is shopping online. You can find some terrific online bargains, while sipping a cup of hot tea and never leaving your house. This will save you time; giving you more time to decorate, entertain and enjoy the seasonal festivities with friends and family.

3. Plan your food budget. Seems as though each time we go to the grocery store our grocery bill gets bigger. Having a potluck holiday meal is a great way to save on the food bill. If you are the host for this year's holiday meal, then serve one meat dish. This can be a big saving for your food budget and at the same time most people will not care. With a potluck meal food tends to be bountiful, especially during a holiday. One of the great things about a potluck holiday meal is guests frequently love sharing the recipe of their own special dish they brought to the festivities.

4. Try not to travel. Traveling can easily eat up a serious part of the budget. Staying at home is the best solution. However, if travel is necessary, then prepare some snacks ahead of time. This cuts back on food expenses for your trip. If you are traveling via automobile, then make it a point to drive slower to get better gas mileage. If flying is in your plans, then book early to get cheaper rates. This can be a huge savings factor in "save money ideas.

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