| In this tough economy, many families have been | | | | for new decorations, cards and wrapping paper. |
| forced to cut back on their Christmas spending. | | | | Instead, use things you have around the house. |
| However, it doesn't have to mean that you can't | | | | Use the decorations saved from previous years |
| have a nice Christmas with the family. Here are a | | | | and get the kids to help you make decorations |
| few suggestions on how to approach Christmas | | | | and cards. It will add to the holiday fun. |
| with limited funds. | | | | - Be honest with children. If you have children and |
| - Set a budget. Determine how much money you | | | | you are limited on the money you have to spend |
| can realistically afford to spend this holiday season | | | | for the holidays, be honest with your kids. Tell |
| and stick to it. Do not use money from your | | | | them that with the tough economy, there won't |
| savings account. Financial security is much more | | | | be as much money to spend for Christmas this |
| important to your family than some fancy | | | | year. Most kids will understand. |
| Christmas presents. | | | | - Emphasize family time. The most important part |
| - Make the holidays for the kids. Be realistic. | | | | of the holidays, whether you have extra money |
| Instead of shopping for a long list of friends and | | | | to spend or not, should be the time that you |
| family, make it a point to buy nice presents for | | | | spend with your family and loved ones. |
| the kids in the family. Most adults will understand | | | | Even without extra money or gifts, the holiday |
| and may feel relieved that they don't have to | | | | season can be a very special time if you plan |
| worry about buying a gift for you. | | | | ahead and make the time you spend with family |
| - Cut out the holiday fluff. Avoid spending money | | | | and friends interesting and fun. |