Wow, with Christmas and being snowbound for more than a week, things have really gotten away from me, but now that the snow is melting away and the hubby is back at work, it's time to get back into gear. I'm not looking forward to my next heating bill, as we were all at home running the heat at our standard 67 degrees during the very bitter cold and the snowstorms (vs. being at work or school--the kids missed FIVE days--with our furnace set at 63 while we were gone). The snowstorms also forced me to do my grocery shopping at a store that I don't normally shop at, but which was easier to get to (no hills), and boy, did I notice the difference. Talk about sticker shock! I can't wait to get back to Albertson's and Safeway tomorrow.
I'm pleased to report that we spent about $30 less on Christmas this year than we did last year (hey, it's better than spending more). I did a ton of shopping, especially for my hubby, on amazon.com this year. One thing I learned about that is if you see a good sale price on amazon, you have to grab it right then and there, or risk the price going up next time you are out on the website.
I'm finding the after-Christmas sales to be good, and I hope you are too. I've picked up lots of wrapping paper, gift tags, gift bags, wrapping paper, ornaments, small gifts for next year, etc., at prices 50-75% off normal. My best bargain so far has been 6 strings of 25 C9 outdoor lights (red and white ceramic lights) and 12 packages of 4 green C9 replacement bulbs for $19.37 after tax.
Look for more posts from me in the new year as we all try to make our way for as little money as possible in the new economic environment.
Happy New Year!
