MomDot is hosting a Blog Party where participating blogs answer questions related to the holiday season. I am participating in Day Three, sponsored by Appledonia, Hippos Toes, and My Bag. Thanks to MomDot for hosting this Blog Party. It is a great way for bloggers to peruse other blogs and gain some helpful information!
Have you started your Christmas shopping yet?
No but I have started my Christmas Thinking. Our theme for this year again is eco-friendly and economical. We cut corners by not buying greeting cards. Though, money is not the only issue there. Greeting cards are bad for the environment too. Last year, I brought out the christmas stencils, and used thick paper that my husband had gotten from work that was headed for the trash bin. My homemade cards were a big hit and stood out above the commercial greeting cards.
Do you budget for the holidays?
Yes we do, if we can't afford it, we just don't buy it. We have to manage the debt we have from medical bills and other expenses. We like to get creative with gifts and give gifts that benefit the person while having a low-to-no impact on the environment.
Do you always stick to your budget?
Pretty much. Now that we have a little one to look after, you just have to. We think about that credit card that's not full, we keep it open for the "just incase" emergencies, instead of adding onto it by buying an item that we could really live without. That's the big ticket I think, "Do I really need this?", or "This is awesome, but does he/she really need it?"
Share with us any budgeting tips you may have!
The best tip is to list all of your must-have expenses (rent, food, gas, etc) along with how much money you have. That way, you know your means and it will be easier to stay within your budget.
We also don't buy wrapping paper. This is a big thing with us and we ask friends/family to skip the paper too. Instead, we bought holiday patterned fabric from the fabric store. We use fabric and twine to wrap packages. It not only looks amazing, but we don't have to carry out trash bags of paper when Christmas is over. No guilt and no garbage!
People like to give gifts. After all, the surprised looks and satisfied smiles are better than chocolate cake. Well, at least nearly as good. But, remember, you may find even more satisfaction in giving homemade gifts or showing someone you care by doing something that seems small but can mean the world to the other person.
enjoy!
-heather
