Pumpkin Wednesday

Welcome to another wonderful Pumpkin Wednesday!  Pumpkin is so glad you stopped by to the check the blog!

I hope you are enjoying the blog!

I heard on the radio this morning that tomorrow marks three weeks until Thanksgiving!  I can't believe how quickly the fall has sped by and how quickly the Christmas season is approaching. And, of course, Christmas means family, church, tree, ornaments, cookies and of course, shopping...

This year, budgeting for Christmas will be an important step to making it through the season without the typical holiday debt.  In the past we have all been guilty of spending more simply because we put our purchases on plastic.  The number of people swiping credit cards may be decreasing, so follow the trend of many other Americans who are choosing debit/cash, or using their credit cards more wisely.

However, holiday shoppers who plan ahead and get started early may be able to snag some great deals on those special holiday gifts.  The Cleveland Plain Dealer published an interesting article about how shoppers have a bit of an advantage this season.  Because retailers are also in a tough spot and looking to bring in consumers, expect to find more chances to save.  Some of the strategies included comparison shopping online now and identifying products so you can watch for the best prices and how to "stack" multiple coupons together.

Consumer Reports also came out with an article about holiday shopping traps to avoid.  It wisely reminds customers NOT to purchase store based warranties, and to be careful when giving gift cards because they are not guaranteed if the creditor/retailer goes bankrupt.

My advice before you even start to shop, is make a list of people you are giving gifts to, and a list of what you hope to get for them.  The more planning you do, the less likely you will be enticed into buying a random item for your family member/friend/significant other.  There is no shame in setting a limit on what you will spend, especially if your gift giving is thoughtful!  (Joann Fabric anticipates hiring around 3000 workers because of the increase in the number of people who will be making gifts!).  So when you have some spare time, make a chart, and don't hesitate to get looking for deals online!

I know I'm starting early, but what is your strategy for holiday shopping?

-Looking forward to a wonderful Thursday!