Keep it Simple
Take a moment to trim the list of people
that you are shopping for. In our home
we buy one gift for each person. If you
have a large or extended family, see if
others will agree to buying presents just
for the children, setting a present price
limit or doing a gift exchange.
Set a Budget
Setting a budget is essential to keeping
the holidays merry and sticking to the
financial plan is just as important. Once
you figure out your total spending limit,
take your shortened list and determine
how much money you will spend on
each person. To avoid the temptation of
overspending, I’ve learned to leave my
debit card in the car and only Christmas
shop with my allotted cash. If you lack
self-control, give the card to someone
that you trust and have them check your
receipt when you take back your card.
Plan Ahead
If you are intent on getting pricey gifts
consider spreading your Christmas
shopping over several months. One
year, I started buying presents in Janu-
ary and was finished by September.
I was able to take advantage of count-
less sales and skip the crowded stores.
A better option for some is to set up a
short-term CD and take out the spend-
ing money just in time for the holidays
next year.
you give them less—your child will be
okay. The most important thing that
you can give your child is to value family
and friendships. And that is perfectly
okay, it’s actually great!
Lynniece Nisbett Garnett has two daughters
Lynnae and Kya Lynn. This Christmas they
are looking forward to spending time together
with their extended family!
It’s Okay
It’s perfectly normal for a parent to
want to fulfill the wishes of their child.
Most youngsters’ want to have what
their friends want—and we want to see
excitement on our child’s face and hear
their joy from receiving that perfect gift.
The reality is that some years you’ll have
less than a shoe string budget and that
is okay. You are not worth less because
Great Value and Affordable
Prices Every Day
Washington Mall, Hamilton
Open 9 to 6
Open late Harbour Nights
Phone: 292-1080
10 Ways to Save Money
During Christmas
1 Leave the plastic alone. Charging presents increases
your debt and headaches.
2 Look for ways to earn extra cash that can be used
just for the holidays.
3 Turn brown paper bags inside-out and use markers,
glitter, stickers, and ribbon to create inexpensive
wrapping paper.
4 Simmer spice tree leaves (found throughout Ber-
muda) and vanilla essence to produce a wonderful
inexpensive home fragrance.
5 Have older children price out their Christmas
wish list.
6 Include essential items like pajamas, toothbrushes
and underclothing in your gift giving.
7 Use your talent or special skill to create homemade
presents.
8 Buy an artificial Christmas tree, it saves money
over time.
9 Shop for items at second-hand stores and websites,
many have new items.
10 Exchange Christmas decorations with a friend to get
a new look.
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and Babysitting training.
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T 441 236 8253 ext. 222
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