Watch those shelves!

We love to shop for Christmas and birthdays....in January. We haunt the clearance shelves in Target, going every day or two for the first week or so of the New Year. We usually take care of three or four birthdays with things that they did not get on Christmas that were on their lists. Target is generous in their clearancing this time of year.

We also go to Costco often. They seriously mark down any toy (and other items that are not regularly carried) that is returned. This year, we found $50 sets of Playmobil for $20 and a large Star Wars Lego set for just $10! We also found an illusion set that one daughter really wanted, but by the time she had saved enough for it, it was gone. One was returned and was only $9! She was so happy when we brought it home. Last year we were super-blessed to get the $120 set of Playmobil for $12!

Watch the clearance shelves especially after Christmas, and then again in the fall as stores prepare for Christmas. You may be able to get special things for much less!

50 Ways to Save Money For The Holidays

I'm all about saving some money! Simple, Green, Frugal has a great list of ways to save some cash. I printed out the list and highlighted the ones that we do regularly. I hope to have the whole list colorful as we improve our habits...except Part A of #1. I refuse!

50 Ways to Save Money For the Holidays

Let me know which of these you have tried, and what you would add to the list!

Homemade Christmas Gifts From the Kitchen

It's coming up on the season of giving. So many folks give, give, give till they are BROKE! Here's a collection of links to help you build homemade Christmas gifts that won't break the bank.

Cookies In A Jar Recipes

Brown Sugar Body Scrub

Food Gifts From Your Kitchen

Assorted Jar Recipes

Healthy Holiday Gift Ideas