Holidays on a Budget

Do you know the words to the popular Christmas song “O Christmas bills, O Christmas bills, how much this season costs me!” I hope not. The holiday season starts with Halloween and ends with New Years Day. Many things seem shorter at this time of the year:

• A shortage of time to get everything done.
• A shortage of money to purchase gifts, meals, and for entertainment.
• There in never a shortage of calories at this time!
• Finally-a shortage of patience!

There are simple things that you can do to make the holidays less stressful and keep the “reason for the season” in mind.

Time
There are only 24 hours in a day. You cannot add more to it, so stop trying. Make a list of all of the things you must do, should do, and want to do. Prioritize. Maybe the house doesn’t have to be extremely decorated-a few decorations are nice too! No time to bake cookies-try having friends over to bake and enjoy their company. Everyone gets to take home some cookies-and you got to spend time with them.

Money
The average family spends about $1,558 during the holidays. Try to plan ahead-set extra money aside earlier in the year. Some people set up an account at the bank for Christmas. Others start shopping right after Christmas is over for the following year, taking advantage of sales. Just remember where you store these items if you shop early! Give home-made gifts or the ultimate gift-the gift of time. Visit someone who may not be able to get out often. Offer to baby-sit for someone with small children. These are great, inexpensive, and always appreciated. Remember to calculate stamps, cards, and baking items into your holiday budget. Finally, set a budget and stick with it. Try not to use your credit cards. Remember, you’ll be paying for that toy long after it may be broken!

Calories
Does there seem to always be food around at this time of the year! The break room is full of goodies-and Aunt Selma’s fudge is the best! Remember moderation. A little of something is good, but five pounds of fudge is not!

• Try having a snack before going to a holiday party.
• Drink water. This helps us feel full faster, and keeps us hydrated.
• Get exercise of some sort everyday. Even cleaning the house is considered exercise. Just move. This will burn calories, so you don’t gain any extra weight this season.
• At holiday meals, eat the things that you normally don’t have throughout the year. Start with small portions. Stop before you are full.
• Fill up on fruits and vegetables at the buffet bar.
• Finally, cut yourself a break.

Enjoy family and friends at this time of the year. Try to schedule down time for you and your family. Lock the doors, have a simple dinner with the family, and enjoy each others company! Happy holidays.