How to Make the Holidays Easier on the Pocketbook

Holiday time is often filled with stresses--for whom do you buy, what is it, and how much are you going to spend.

Wallstreet Journal provided " Seven Smart Money Moves for the Holidays" last year that bears repeating.

1. Set a gift budget in advance and stick to it. Only take cash to the mall.

2. Negotiate a gift truce among adults. Either no gifts or one gift to a random person. Specify an amount.

3. "If you get a choice, opt for time spent together building memories versus giving stuff that leaves you drained of your hard-earned cash." Go on a picnic. Give cooking lessons.

4. Set up funds for the children (grandchildren). Family and friends can contribute to a 529 college fund as their gift. Or help them open their first Roth IRA.

5. Forget the presents and give to charities. Join in on a hunt for organizations you want to support.

6. Give handmade items such as cookies, soups, pesto, flavored olive oil.

7. Research prices online to make sure you are getting a good deal.

Gift Cards...Are Sure To Please

Ahhh, one of my favorite gifts is a gift card. I know it doesn't usually come wrapped up prettily and you don't get to dive into a tissue-filled box but the anticipation of using it makes up for any unwrapping frenzy.

This last August an act was passed to extend expiration dates for 5 years. This gives us some time to find those misplaced cards during the non-holiday times of the year.

I can't tell you how often I've cleaned drawers (not my favorite chore) only to find (to my delight) a new or partially used gift card. It almost makes the chore bearable.

The Consumer Action Website provides tips for using your gift cards:

1. Read the terms, conditions and expiration

2. Record the card's ID number and keep the information in a safe place

3. Don't lose your card...but if you do, use the above information to replace it

Have fun, stay well, and happy holidays!

Your Government Is Working For You: Holiday (And Other) Gift Ideas

Now this is a new one to me. Our government is making gift suggestions! And they are among the best I've seen.

Some come from museums and presidential libraries, some from Amtrak...even some from the post office. Honestly, folks, you can't go wrong at this site.

There are coin sets, folk recordings, jewelry, badges, collectibles, national park passes, photography and prints, tree ornaments, toys, games, apparel, books, food, bath items, event tickets, World War II memorabilia. You can even adopt an animal species.

I personally am going no farther for my future gifts.