Christmas ramblings- Living debt free

I decided to make my Christmas list of people outside of our family that we buy gifts for. When making a list it is easy to overlook someone. Be real about your Christmas list. For example, at my job I have chosen to participate in "Secret Pal" program. We buy small gifts throughout the year for one other person. I need to remember her for Christmas. Also, if your kids have their own organizational Christmas parties, remember those gifts, too! I know that each of my girls will have a party at their Dance Studio. Caleb just joined Boy Scouts so I don't know if I will need a gift for a party there yet.

Put your own family first. This may sound selfish but your hard earned money should go toward your husband or wife and kids. It is nice to remember others at Christmas time but truly it is the thought that counts. Many times we let our own ego get in the way of our budget or desire to live thrifty/frugally. What I mean is, we want to impress the people we are buying for. This is non-sense. I know that my family and friends would rather receive a small, thoughtful gift that came from what I had to give, rather than going in debt to buy them a gift. Going in debt is no gift to them and certainly not to you!

Start shopping now. As my dear sister-in-law Jennifer at www.keepersofthehomejm.blogspot.com showed in her latest post, buy things now that are on sale or on clearance. Check my blog daily for good deals. Yesterday I posted some good deals at JCPenney.com.

Do you have any questions about Christmas on a budget? Leave me a comment and I will try to answer you.