Giving thanks while keeping your $$'s

Every year around this time, there is a a lot of "giving thanks" floating around. Why is it that we concentrate on it so much during one short time, instead of all the time? I have to say, I LOVE THE HOLIDAYS! It starts with Halloween, and goes all the way through January 1st.  There is just something special in the air during this time.....and the lights! The light decorations everywhere are just magical. Unfortunately, it does not snow where I live, that would be ultimate.

With this magical time of year, we also get bombarded with sales. My goodness, all the things we did

Money Tree, gift from my son many years ago :).

not know we needed! This is the time people spend most of their money, and rack up credit. Many years ago, I would put some money aside specifically for Black Friday, I would hunt through the sales fliers to find the best deal, and head out at 4 or 5 am to snag my prize. Now, you have leave your dinner table, and Black Friday starts on Halloween. I worked retail for a few Holiday Seasons, and now I refuse to go shopping on any Holidays. It is pretty crappy when you have to leave festivities and go work. Black Friday is hyped up to make you think you are getting a deal, or you are losing out if you do not participate. Trust me, there is always another deal for you in the Universe. Stay in control.

Remember, it is your money. I know it is hard to resist the super sales in your inbox. I have started deleting and unsubscribing. When I need something specific, I will go and check for sales & coupons. Impulse buys are thwarted this way.

As you know, I am both a Certified Clutter Coach, and an avid estate sale treasure hunter. A contradiction? Trust me, I am not perfect, and do succumb to impulse buys....BUT....here are some of my tricks for every day saving and getting through the holidays without maxing out your credit card. It is the time to show our love with gifts, but take some time and ponder on this. It is not the price of the gift, but the thought you put into it for the receiver.

1. At this point in time, it is too late to save for Yule or Christmas presents, but it is never too late to set a budget. I set a budget for gifts for family. Gift exchanges are $10. We have done gift exchanges like this, and everyone has come up with FABULOUS gifts. Plus, no one feels awkward. Estate sales & thrift stores are your friend. Not only do you save, you recycle!

2. I have recently discovered Facebook Marketplace! I always check there and Craigslist first. You would be surprised what people are selling. I found a $300 IKEA desk for $35. I do suggest giving yourself plenty of time, people list new things every day.

3. Make things! One of my favorite gifts is a framed paper a friend wrote the words she saw when she though of me :). Herbed vinegars in pretty bottles, vanilla sugar, ginger beer....ideas are endless.

4. Even estate sales & thrift stores can be money suckers! Set yourself a budget AND STICK TO IT. Learn to haggle :)....it becomes a fun game. I will reiterate: Stick to your budget. Even if the item is only $5 more. If you can't negotiate it down to your price, let it go. I know it is hard, I have had to do it many times. But it feels good to be in control, and is what it is all about. 

5. Often, people tell me "I have teens, they don't want that. They want an iPhone!". Well, so do I. But, I have to work for it. Just think about that, and think of the love & experience you can give that teen if you think of something more original. Let them earn these expensive gadgets. Ask my kids, they can give you tips :). They both bought their own phones.

Of course, if you want to buy a unique gift, I am always going to steer you to Etsy. So many fantastic items, made & listed with love. I even made a gift guide for you, perfect pairings for both the hanging Kitchen Witches, and the Streghe. Both come with love & magic, as well as tradition.

Whatever happens this Holiday season, give yourself love, have fun, be grateful, and enjoy the magic!
Much love,
Heike