89 days and counting

Just bought my first chocolate tree decorations today. I've hidden them in the back of the cupboard- not because the kids will get them, but because my dog will!

I'm starting to think about Christmas lists and budgets. I'm fed up of overspending. I say every year that I won't, but I always seem to have a last minute panic and spend too much on a last minute splurge. This year I will NOT do this. I plan to be a bit boring and have a Christmas spreadsheet for all my gifts, food and decorations. I will not over buy on the food (the shops are only closed for a couple of days!) and I do not intend to be looking at a pile of Christmas tat that no one is interested in, and that I've just spent a months salary on.

So, this week I am:

1. Putting together a spreadsheet listing everyone I intend to buy gifts for, together with three things they like the most. This will give me some inspiration for gifts.


2. Set a budget for each person.


3. Go to the stores (and search online) for gift ideas.


4. Think of the theme I'm going to have this year for the house decorations- it won't be very different from the one we have every year as I don't believe in throwing away perfectly good decorations. However, I may add a new stair garland that is dog-proof (new dog in the family!) and replace the glass baubles with plastic ones for the tree (again thinking about the dog!)


5. Set the budget for any new decorations, lights etc.


6. Begin to think about food- but I won't plan the menu just yet.

Part of my search for gift ideas will include searching for best prices and seeing if there are any bargains around at the moment. I reckon that if you shop wisely, you can save atleast 30% on gifts if you shop early. I'm not saying that you will get all your presents at bargain prices, but you may well get the stocking fillers, and the gifts for your extended family and friends at greatly reduced prices if you shop in the pre- Christmas sales.