Christmas decorating on a budget and see my decor!
Can you believe only three weeks until Christmas???? I am gleeful. Since having kids I have become a Christmas convert.
Today I wanted to share a few of our very budget-friendly decorations.
Can you believe only three weeks until Christmas???? I am gleeful. Since having kids I have become a Christmas convert.
Today I wanted to share a few of our very budget-friendly decorations.
Our front door:
Can you believe I got this wreath at the dollar tree?? It's so lush! The wreath was plain when I purchased is for $1. I purchased the ribbon and the sprig of berries there two. And I got the pine cones from my back yard for just $3. Boom! $3 wreath.
You can see that the pinecone theme runs pretty deep. Don't ask me what it is! I purchased a bulk of ornaments at Walmart for $7 and put it in a wire basket on my antique phone table.
Our fireplace:
This is probably one of my favorite holiday decorations this year. I found this star shaped basket at my local thrift store for just $2! I had my husband cut up a fallen limb from our pecan orchard and placed the wood in the basket. Then I just clipped on these cute ornaments I purchased at Walmart last year for $1.
I think it turned out fantastic!!
Have I told you about my mantle obsession? Yes. I frequently look at pins of people's mantles. This year I kept mine really simple with some dollar tree garland, and a star I picked up at Hobby Lobby for $12.50. I also stuck some pinecone decorations and sprigs of fake berries in my grandmother's antique sifter.
Each season I decorate that sifter based on the season. It adds a homey touch. You can also see some birchwood candle holders peeking out. I got those in my Fair Trade Friday Box this month.
Our tree:
I know white lights are more elegant. And I know that matching ornaments and beautiful bow are pleasing to the eye. In fact, I love looking at trees decked out elegantly. But this tree represents my life.
My children chose the colorful lights and it's littered with handprinted ornaments, and Sesame Street characters hung by tiny little hands. It's precious and it's sweet.
Last week my five-year-old asked me to sit on the floor next to him so we could point to our favorite ornaments and talk about why we loved them. That isn't going to last forever.
So I could have matching ornaments and a themed tree. But each ornament I have represents a memory, or a person, or a time I will cherish.
So what about you? What is your favorite Christmas decoration at your house?
How to not bust your Christmas budget
It's the most wonderful time of the year, it's also the most expensive if you don't have a plan.
Let's face it, even if you have been diligent in sticking to a budgeting and saving all year long, this is the time when things can really fall apart if you don't have intention. Today I wanted to offer some tips to not busting your Christmas budget.
It's the most wonderful time of the year, it's also the most expensive if you don't have a plan.
Let's face it, even if you have been diligent in sticking to a budgeting and saving all year long, this is the time when things can really fall apart if you don't have intention. Today I wanted to offer some tips to not busting your Christmas budget.
1. Actually make a Christmas budget
I know. Mind blowing stuff happening here. But if you're going to make this work you have to make a budget for each gift, decoration of charitable donation.
And make it realistic. You're probably going to spend more than $20 on your kids. So keep in mind what you spent last year. If you need to pare things down and spend less, cross some things off that list or find cheaper alternatives.
2. Track what you're spending
I like to make a list in the reminders function on my phone. I put in each person I am going to be purchasing a gift for and add how much I have budget for each one. When I make a purchase I will update that list.
Or you can use something like the EveryDollar app. This is my favorite budgeting app, it's really simple to use and it's free. It's also really good for keeping you accountable.
3. Keep your list A List only
I know this sounds harsh, but you just can't do something for everyone. This year I am keeping things to family only, and even a few extended family members (aunts and uncles we see every few years) are getting gifts my boys made.
I just can't buy something for every person I know. I don't say that to be cruel, or because I don't appreciate these people. I say that because I live in reality and reality dictates I can't buy everyone a gift and stay on track. So that might mean I bake a bulk batch of cookies, or write a very heart-felt letter telling them what they mean to me.
Take a long look at your list and determine where you need to pare things down.
4. Make bulk purchases
Last year everyone I know got a Turvis mug. Why? Because I found a really, really good sale. I was able to personalize the mugs and they ended up costing around $17 each. This saved me money and time.
What about you? How are you staying on budget?
Gifts for her under $25
Christmas is coming. Fast. I mean really fast. Are you ready? Today I am sharing some gifts for the ladies in your life, all under $25. And best of all you can have these delivered to your front door thanks to Prime 2-day shipping.
Christmas is coming. Fast. I mean really fast. Are you ready? Today I am sharing some gifts for the ladies in your life, all under $25. And best of all you can have these delivered to your front door thanks to Prime 2-day shipping.
Eden's Garden Essential Oils Love Blend
Our Own Candle Company Candle Set
Personally, I think any of these gifts would be a win! And if you're not a Prime Member be sure to sign up before the Holiday season gets in high swing and enjoy all the perks including free 2-day shipping.
If you're on the fence about a Prime Membership, check out this post I wrote about Prime Perks.
This post contains affiliate links, meaning if you make a purchase I get a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you. This helps keep content free and supports our small business.
2 tips for reducing holiday gift-giving stress
The holidays are a magical time filled with family and lights and maybe a little snow if you're lucky. And of course the biggest celebration is that of Jesus' birth. But the holidays can also be stress city.
Especially when you have a large shopping list. Here are 2 ways to reduce gift-giving stress.
The holidays are a magical time filled with family and lights and maybe a little snow if you're lucky. And of course the biggest celebration is that of Jesus' birth. But the holidays can also be stress city.
Especially when you have a large shopping list. Here are 2 ways to reduce gift-giving stress.
1. Start early
I feel like that is a big duh. But there is a lot for be said for starting early. When you're not rushed you don't feel pressured to spend as much money needlessly.
I like to have my Christmas shopping finished early. By the first of December I like to have everything purchased, wrapped and nestled away.
This way I can enjoy everything December has to offer. I can take my kids to a parade, watch Elf and get ready for the church musical without the stress.
2. Listen and ask
Last year I asked my sister what she wanted for Christmas, then I bought it for her. I know that doesn't sound exciting, but I wanted her to have something she actually needed and wanted.
What better gifts than the ones people can use daily, year round?
I also got my mother a gift this year that I heard her say she wanted. I filed the idea away in my brain and when I saw the item at a great price I purchased it.
What about you? How do you reduce gift-giving stress?
9 Christmas Gifts Ideas that cost $0
We've all had lean years. Years where month after month there is more month left than money. When you're dealing with the stress of a lean year Christmas, and how to pay for it, can weigh heavy on you.
The last thing I want you to do is stress about how you're going to pay for Christmas. The last thing your loved ones want is for you to stress about Christmas and how you're going to pay for it.
If you're worried about how you're going to afford gifts this year, I have come up with a few ideas for you. A lot of these things can be pulled together for free using things you already have at home.
We've all had lean years. Years where month after month there is more month left than money. When you're dealing with the stress of a lean year Christmas, and how to pay for it, can weigh heavy on you.
The last thing I want you to do is stress about how you're going to pay for Christmas. The last thing your loved ones want is for you to stress about Christmas and how you're going to pay for it.
If you're worried about how you're going to afford gifts this year, I have come up with a few ideas for you. A lot of these things can be pulled together for free using things you already have at home.
1. Give from your stash.
If you're like me and you have a stash of toiletries or samples, consider making a gift basket.
I get a lot of samples through out the year, everything from coffee to lip gloss. I keep the samples in a basket in my linen closet. It is really easy to compile these samples into a cute gift basket for a friend or family member.
You guys know I am a BIG fan of the free. Meaning, I look for free deals as much as I can. I don't spend hours and hours each week, but I do spend about 15 minutes about once a week on deals. I feel like it's my job to stretch Jason's paycheck as far as it will go and freebies like diapers, cleaning supplies and toiletries, even clothing bridges any gaps.
I get great items like body wash and candles from ePantry. You can get a $10 credit when you sign up. Then you will get a referral link to share with your friends and family. Right now during November ePantry is having a double credits bonus. When a friend signs up through your link you will get a $20 credit. This is a great way to get things for gifts like high end bath products, candles and water bottles.
I do think you will have to make a $20 or $30 purchase to get your credit.
2. Create unique spices and rubs
Bakers and grill enthusiasts alike would love a special blend of spiced or rubs. You likely have everything you need to make and package your own mixes.
I put a few together and it only took a few minutes. You could give taco seasoning, soups mixes, homemade pumpkin spice mix or grilling rub.
Put the spices in small mason jars and paint the lids with chalk paint. Then write on the lid what they are and how to use them. You could include a favorite recipe on a pretty stationary.
3. Wax Melts
Last year I made my mom some homemade wax melts. I knew she had a wax warmer in her home and I had some leftover candles had too little wax to burn. So I upcycled them into wax melts.
For full instructions go here.
4. Coconut and Sugar Scrub
Did you know you can create some great gifts using things you already have? You can whip up a simple face and body scrub using just coconut oil and sugar. If you have a few essential oils you can drop that in too.
5. Upcycled tea cup candle
This concept is the same as the wax melts. If you have a candle lying around that you just don't love you can easily transform it into a tea cup candle. Find an old tea cup in your cabinet and an old candle and get started. You can find the instructions here.
5. Candle lid picture frame
Speaking of old candles. If you have candles with metal lids you are no longer using, it is really easy to turn those into a magnetic photo frame. This is perfect for grand parents!
6. DIY Button Hair Pins
Before my grandmother died she gave me all her sewing supplies, including jars and jars and jars of buttons. I swear, she was hording buttons.
All of the sewing supplies were wasted on me, so I gave it all to my mother who loves to sew. But I hung onto the buttons. Some of them I used to jazz up bobby pins.
7. Pass something on
I got this great comment from a subscriber:
Lydia, my mother-in-law is the best and most thoughtful "re-gifter" in the world. One year she gave me 2 vintage silver spoons, that had belonged to her mother, tied with a pretty ribbon for Christmas. Another year she gave my daughter a framed doily she had made. She re-gifted some Tonka Trucks her late husband had bought to our son when he was little. She has also found vintage linens at thrift stores, washed/ironed/starched them and given them to me. She knows my colors and style and just always puts actual thought, not money, into her gifts. She is awesome in so many ways, this is just one.
8. Give free printables
Pinterest has NO end to free printables. Many of them are both beautiful and inspirational. Think of someone you love. Is there a quote or scripture verse that always reminds you of him or her? Why not see if there is a free printable on Pinterest of that quote or scripture? Print it out and put it in a frame you already own. Then present it to that person.
9. Remember presentation makes things special
Okay, so this isn't a gift idea but the way you present something can make it extra special. Taking the time to wrap something, even if it's really small, allows the recipient to savor that moment. Put an ornament on the package instead of a bow, or include a handwritten and thoughtful note.
What about you? What would you add to the list?
Crazy sock exchange ($10 Gift Idea)
I am always stumped at what to get my nieces and nephews. I know kid's interests change a lot and something they might love today might not be something they like tomorrow.
So last year my sister came up with a great idea. We can do a sock exchange. My sister saw the idea on Pinterest. She thought the idea would translate great for kids. And this is a super cost-effective gift. Each one of these coast me less than $10, sometimes way less because I used free Amazon gift cards. A two-pack of crazy socks can be split among two kids and costs around $4. Books and small games are really inexpensive and can entertain kids for a long time.
I am always stumped at what to get my nieces and nephews. I know kid's interests change a lot and something they might love today might not be something they like tomorrow.
So last year my sister came up with a great idea. We can do a sock exchange. My sister saw the idea on Pinterest. She thought the idea would translate great for kids.
And this is a super cost-effective gift. Each one of these cost me less than $10, sometimes way less because I used free Amazon gift cards I earned through Swagbucks. A two-pack of crazy socks can be split among two kids and costs around $4 at Walmart. Books and small games are really inexpensive and can entertain kids for a long time.
So I wanted to share a few ideas.
For my nephew, age 8, I got ninja turtle socks, a book of clean jokes for kids, a book light, a tube of M&Ms and a wonderful book called The One and Only Ivan.
For my oldest niece, age 7, I got a cute pair of heart socks, the second book in the Clementine series (because she loved the first book I got her), a My Little Pony, a nail set, some sparkly headbands and a tube of M&Ms.
For my youngest niece, age 4, I got her some My Little Pony Socks, a My Little Pony toy, a necklace making kit, stamp markers and a frozen sticker book.
I curled the books to fit in the socks and then put everything else in on top. Then I tied the legs of the socks together. Easy peasy.
And just to give you an idea of one you could do for a teen or a lady in your life.
For this one I just did a pair of cream colored socks with black hearts. Then I added a chevron scarf, some lip glosses, nail wraps and some body wash. I loved this one... so I kept it.
What about you? What crazy sock idea would you come up with?
This post contains affiliate links. Meaning, if you make a purchase I will get a small percentage of the sale at NO extra cost to you.
4 ways Amazon saves on Christmas shopping
It is finally November and we are inching our way closer to Christmas. Don't blink because the holiday season will be here before you know it.
This year I vow to have ALL of my Christmas gifts purchased, wrapped and ready to go before Thanksgiving. I am pleased to say that most of the gifts have already been purchased thanks to Amazon.
It is finally November and we are inching our way closer to Christmas. Don't blink because the holiday season will be here before you know it.
This year I vow to have ALL of my Christmas gifts purchased, wrapped and ready to go before Thanksgiving. I am pleased to say that most of the gifts have already been purchased thanks to Amazon.
Today I wanted to share some ways shopping through Amazon saves me money and time.
I understand that some people feel that online shopping disconnects us from the holiday season, but I disagree. I still buy people thoughtful gifts, but I am able to do so without the stress of crowds and parking.
Also, personally, I believe online shopping cuts impulse spending. I know there are conflicting studies on this, but without the beautiful display of sweaters, lipgloss or books right next to the checkout (where I wait and wait and wait to be cashed out) I feel like I am less likely to grab something and throw it in my cart.
Okay. so here are some ways I save money shopping on Amazon at Christmas.
1. Make a wish list
Earlier this year when I began prepping for Christmas I sat down and made a Christmas 2015 Wish List on Amazon. This is really easy to do. Just go to the upper right hand corner of the Amazon homepage and find the wish list function.
You can create a private wish list that no one else sees. When I think of something I want to get a person I just add it to the wish list.
Then I wait for the best price.
2. Find the best price
I use the website CamelCamelCamel.com to find the best price. You can enter in the item you want to purchase and the price you want it and Camel will email you when it hits that price. It's free and it's so easy to use.
3. Use your Swagbucks
Swagbucks is a great way to earn Amazon gift cards. If you don't know what Swagbucks is, it's a website where you can earn points for doing things like taking surveys or watching videos and you cash out those points for gift cards to various places.
You can read more about it here.
4. Compare at Target
Did you know Target will price match Amazon? Oh yeah, all you have to do is show them the price on your smart phone.
Plus you can combine that price with both a store and manufacturers coupon, the Cartwheel app and the Target Redcard Debit card (which saves 5%). So all of that equals bigger savings!
You can read all about how to save money at Target here.
Note: Amazon in NO WAY sponsored this post and they are in no way affiliated with it. I just want you guys to save money and I don't want to leave my house so... you know... two birds.
What about you? How do you save money using Amazon at Christmas?
4 easy ways to earn extra Christmas money
I know it's only October but the holiday season is creeping up fast and before you know it Thanksgiving will be here with Christmas right on its heels. So why not take some time to prep?
Christmas should be a time of peace, hope and worship. Not a time of stress because you fear the credit card bills coming in January. Credit card debt sky rockets in January and February according to this report.
I know it's only October but the holiday season is creeping up fast and before you know it Thanksgiving will be here with Christmas right on its heels. So why not take some time to prep?
Christmas should be a time of peace, hope and worship. Not a time of stress because you fear the credit card bills coming in January. Credit card debt sky rockets in January and February according to this report.
So instead why not set up a cash budget? Here are some ways to earn a little extra money before the holidays begin.
1. Sell your old tech and toys on eBay
Do you have an old and broken smart phone or tablet stashed away in a drawer? What about ALL those Legos your kid don'ts play with anymore? Why not sell them on eBay.
I have had great luck selling broken tech, designer hand bags and old toys.
Here are a few of my tips for maximizing your eBay profits.
2. Put your garage on Craigslist
Do you have an old weed eater? Some old play equipment or baby items cluttering up your garage? Put that stuff on Craigslist.
In the past three years we have made THOUSANDS of dollars via Craigslist getting rid of stuff we didn't want, need or use. It is the best place to sell things like furniture and large baby items.
Just make sure you ALWAYS meet in a public place to exchange your goods. I recommend a busy shopping area or even the police station parking lot.
Here are a few tips for making the MOST money on Craigslist.
3. Earn Amazon credits
If you're anything like me you buy pretty much everything on Amazon. If Amazon sold milk I would never have to leave my house again.
Why not take some time to round up that dusty collection of DVDs and those books you will never read again and trade them in for Amazon gift cards?
I wracked up $155.78 in one day just trading in DVDs for gift cards.
You can read the FULL details here. The process is so simple.
4. Wrack up free gift cards
Another great way to pay for holiday expenses is by scoring some free gift cards.
There are so many options for this, whether it's through taking quick surveys or signing up for an awards program through your health insurance.
3 tips for a cash Christmas
It is the first Friday of October! So today we are going to talk about Budgeting For Christmas. Wait, what??
I know. I know. But it will be here before you know it and I got a really interesting question from a reader and got me thinking about budgeting for Christmas.
It is the first Friday of October! So today we are going to talk about Budgeting For Christmas. Wait, what??
I know. I know. But it will be here before you know it and I got a really interesting question from a reader and got me thinking about budgeting for Christmas.
How do you guys budget for Christmas for the kids? I have a 5 year old and a 1 year old and I am trying to come up with a budget on how much to spend on them for Christmas. If you have any tips or advice it would be greatly appreciated!
It really is a great question.
As I thought about it I realized that I have never really set hard and firm rules for Christmas budgeting. I just have a number in mind and try not to exceed that.
Last year I think we spent a combined $65 on both of our children, who were really still babies. And to be honest we gave them too many things.
This is some advice I would give.
1. What to give?
This year we have a new policy.
Four gifts and none of them that big.
Something you want.
Something you need.
Something to wear.
Something to read.
I have heard of several people doing this and I LOVED the idea.
2. Make a line item in your budget.
First of all if you're not making a zero-based budget you should be. Learn more here.
Add Christmas to your budget just like you would anything else. Make a list of everyone you want to give a gift to and then create a gift list around the budget. NOT THE OTHER WAY AROUND!
3. Think of giving differently.
Gifts are great. I love them. But that is not the reason to celebrate Christmas. I am a Christian and I believe that Christmas is a season of worship and celebration. Gifts are a bonus.
Instead focus on creating lasting memories and traditions. I remember far more the fun things we did as a family than I do what I got under the tree.
What about you? How do you budget for Christmas? Tell in the comments below!