You probably make at least and maybe more holiday lists but do you make a budget? It’s easy to become overwhelmed by the holiday season because between gifts, cards, holiday functions and regular life….it gets busy! And that can mean that attention to details is exchanged for what’s easiest and what’s easiest is almost always more expensive. A treat for yourself or a safe ride home in a cab late at night makes is all part of the season however, indulgences can add up.

I find the best way for me to keep myself organized so that I can enjoy the holidays is to do a little holiday planning which means lists! 

• Special food and drinks
• Hostess gifts to take to parties and family gatherings
• Gift exchange items for work or other social groups
• Donations
• Christmas cards and letters
• Gifts to buy for here and to mail

I also put the activities we plan to do on the calendar. 

Once I put dollar amounts beside the items on my list I can plan my spending…this way I don’t have too many surprises on our credit card statement in January.