that time of year

Hello Week 28 of Project Money!  Well, it’s that time of year and I feel pretty calm about the holidays. Overall, I still spent money for Christmas (Amy says I have to), but there are some notable differences this time around. 

I had previously created a Christmas sub savings account, and I stuck to it...well mostly.  I charged nothing on my credit cards.  In fact, I even had a credit on my credit card.  All purchases came directly out of my checking account.  Instead of spending money on a real tree, I put up an artificial one that someone donated to our family last year.  The decorations I have in the house came from thrift stores and estate sales mainly.  Because our cats are into climbing this year, the tree is currently only decorated with lights.  Looking forward to sewing some cat-friendly ornaments on next year.  I was going to sew some Christmas gifts this year, but I can’t remember how to thread my sewing machine.  That goal is definitely a work in progress.  For wrapping this year, I am using up Sunday comics, recycling the gift bags, using shoe boxes from my closet instead of shirt boxes, and using twine and ribbon for bows.  In the past, I always bought ahead.  This often was not a good thing because I bought unneeded stuff, couldn’t remember where I hid certain gifts, and kids outgrew things or their interests changed before I could give them gifts.  This year’s philosophy is to use up that “stuff,” donate it, and get it out of here.  I’m trying to focus on experiences versus things, practical gifts instead of toys that won’t be played with, food items for my foodie, needed clothing (socks, pj’s, t-shirts, and personal care items, etc.), and craft projects, games, or electronics we can do together.

Overall, it is a season of giving: time, volunteerism, smiles, baked goods, Chex party mix, etc.  From my house to yours, I wish you a joyous holiday season.  Thank you for being part of our Project Money journey.  I have said it before, but I will say it again:  my journey is just beginning, and I know I can do better, keep growing, learning, and reflecting, and have a positive impact on all those I meet.  I feel very blessed and Summit Credit Union has helped me to blossom into a strong and confident woman on so many levels. I could not be more grateful. 

#TeamSara #10K #embracethejourney #ProjectMoney2018 #SummitCreditUnion #Lifeistooshortnottotakerisks