Sit down now before everything gets crazy and schedule your activities for November and December. Schedule your holiday time with relatives and friends, shopping time, travel time and yes even "a little me time".
Now for the "dirty word" budget. Think of your holiday budget as a freeing experience. Last year our family decided to just buy gifts for the kids. Instead of stressing out about what to buy, shopping for the gifts (standing in long lines) and feeling guilty about money being spent on me when things are tight we focused on just spending quality time together. I enjoyed taking the focus off items and putting my energy into my family. Now some people might feel that was a bit extreme. If you do then please make sure you do decide on how light your bank account will be and have no regrets come January 1. Things to consider when setting your budget: decorations, tree, travel, baking and cooking, gifts, wrapping, parties and childcare.
Food, food and more food. Plan your menu now and make a list of the ingredients. Start your shopping now for items. Put on your schedule when food can be prepared and cooked. Try using dishes like casseroles that can be frozen, this way you are not spending all day cooking.
Let me know any ideas you have - Happy Holidays!!!
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