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From Cath's Desk
Hello Cheapskaters,
And welcome to the November edition of the Cheapskates Journal.
I'm not ashamed to admit that Christmas is my favourite time of year. I start planning for the next Christmas on Boxing Day, and work towards it all year long so I have really enjoyed putting together this month's Journal for you.
You don't need to be a scrooge when it comes to Christmas, but please remember (and I know I say this every year) that Christmas Day is just one day of the year. You can celebrate and have fun without going over budget if you just take a few minutes to plan.
Plan everything you think you'll need: gifts, decorations, clothes, entertainment, travel, parties, cards and of course food. Did you know that food and gifts are the two major expenses for Australians during December?
My advice when it comes to food: Christmas dinner is just one meal on one day of the year. Yes, I sound like a broken record, but there are some folk who haven't heard the message yet. Plan your menu and shop according to what you like to eat and drink and only cater for the number you'll be feeding. And at this time of year you'll get some good specials on those treats and luxuries so keep an eye out.
When it comes to gifts, make a budget. Make a list. Then stick to it. And if you find a gift under budget shout HOORAY and put the change into your Emergency Fund. Do not be tempted to spend more money if you find a gift on sale. Wrap and label, then cross off your list as soon as the gifts are bought or made.
Keep a close eye on your budget so you don't go over and you'll own your Christmas 2016 easily.
Have a great month everyone.
And welcome to the November edition of the Cheapskates Journal.
I'm not ashamed to admit that Christmas is my favourite time of year. I start planning for the next Christmas on Boxing Day, and work towards it all year long so I have really enjoyed putting together this month's Journal for you.
You don't need to be a scrooge when it comes to Christmas, but please remember (and I know I say this every year) that Christmas Day is just one day of the year. You can celebrate and have fun without going over budget if you just take a few minutes to plan.
Plan everything you think you'll need: gifts, decorations, clothes, entertainment, travel, parties, cards and of course food. Did you know that food and gifts are the two major expenses for Australians during December?
My advice when it comes to food: Christmas dinner is just one meal on one day of the year. Yes, I sound like a broken record, but there are some folk who haven't heard the message yet. Plan your menu and shop according to what you like to eat and drink and only cater for the number you'll be feeding. And at this time of year you'll get some good specials on those treats and luxuries so keep an eye out.
When it comes to gifts, make a budget. Make a list. Then stick to it. And if you find a gift under budget shout HOORAY and put the change into your Emergency Fund. Do not be tempted to spend more money if you find a gift on sale. Wrap and label, then cross off your list as soon as the gifts are bought or made.
Keep a close eye on your budget so you don't go over and you'll own your Christmas 2016 easily.
Have a great month everyone.
