Not Made Of Money

Because shopping in advance is a method I use to save money, I am already working on my Christmas gift list. For several nieces and nephews who live out of state, I always give them a gift card so I purchase those over the Summer months. When the holidays roll around, all I need to do is address a card to them and pop in the gift card. It’s an easy way to spread out the expenses related to Christmas.

Another method I use to save money on Christmas gifts is to look at clearance merchandise through “gift giving” eyes. This one is a bit tricky though because the items won’t be able to be returned so I have to be fairly certain that the recipient is going to like the gift. Usually I find items that I can put into gift baskets such as discounted fragrances, cosmetics, scented candles, etc. It’s easy to purchase things for my own children, though, because I approximate their clothing sizes and know what they like.

I am currently working on the list for any handmade gifts I intend to give. This way I will have plenty of time to buy the supplies and to make the gift without feeling rushed. The kids are busy choosing what gifts they want to make and will be starting their projects as well.

Next month I will take out the list I made last Christmas showing which items we have (decorations, lights, etc.) and which items we will need such as gift wrap, bows, boxes, etc. I will begin checking the local dollar store for those items when they come in.

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