The United States is in debt. Are you, too? Christmas debt can hang around for.months. Now, this is NOT a good thing. On the lighter side, it can feel as heavy as Santa’s sleigh. Oh, those memories! But, it can interfere with paying for taxes and other winter into spring festivities. Generally, you can assess your spending using the
following list:

1) Santa’s merriest

That’s food and beverage, including alcohol. Add in dinners out with friends or for a concert
or the theatre that you treat yourself to for the Holidays.
Or, just groceries. Don’t forget to include the days other than the big one, or the house guests you entertained for more than just the main event. Did you remember to add in the cost of the holiday knickknacks and a new tablecloth?

2) Gifts

Yes, you know that you spent more than enough to load down the sleigh. And you gave yourself a few gifts, including that manicure (or wrench, for the guys). Kudos to you for remembering friends, special friends, the relatives, the postman and the manicurist with love, but try to be a littl~ sensible this year. A sentimental gift may be perfect and speak volumes, but it shouldn’t break the bank. Note: some people love gift cards and some do not, but it may be the perfect gift for someone who needs them. Restaurant cards are nice.

3) Theatre and Seasonal Events

Check it out by checking out anything or something from the READER WEEKLY. It will make you feel like it’s a special holiday, especially if you’re feeling low or out of sorts.

4) Buttons and Bows

All that special clothing you bought, from sequins to spiffy shoes!

5) The (Jolly old St. Nick) Gift Wrapping and Cards

Sure, it may not come on a $2.99 roll much anymore, but count the cost of all those bags and tissue paper. Also, bows and wine bottle carriers. Some people spend a small fortune on tags and cards and stamps. I do. Do you?

6) Tree and Ornaments

7) Tithing and Charity

Some people consider this optional, but in the season of good will, it’s a very old notion made new again. It’s nice to remember those less fortunate at this season. It will maybe even feel better if you volunteer, but it may take a while to find your place.

8) The Other Reminders of the Season

Throw into this a mishmash of spending. Think communication and transportation. That’s long distance phone calls and mileage to visit relatives and friends for the holidays. All travel and hotels come in this category. The better you are prepared the less dread you may have. And don’t forget baggage fees.
So that’s the list. Note: some expenses do not occur every year. Try to be a little flexible with the spending, if you need to, to give yourself some joy. Also, some giving (such as to charity) may have gotten larger as you have aged, so take a moment to realize and discuss how much you really can afford to give. Say it with love. This year, take a look back at what you’ve spent. This time next year, you don’t want to be on a debt plan to pay until Easter. Tally your spending, and divide by 11.
The best thing to do is to save month by month. While you should be able to save most, if not all, of your Christmas spending this way, be aware that if you have been debting badly at the Holidays, it may take more than a year to get it straightened out. But, every little bit helps. That way, you can have an even merrier 2014 with the joy of knowing you saved and planned all year long.

Good Luck!