It creeps up on you

I was giving a test for a class to a young child last year, and I asked her what the four seasons were. She said, "summer, spring, fall, and...um....Christmas?"

I've been seeing it everywhere, and it's not even Halloween yet. Working in retail, after the back-to-school rush, your mind automatically starts preparing for the holiday season, which, literally begins the week or two after Halloween. 

Earlier this week, I went to a craft store that's notorious for having their Christmas products out for at least half of the year (you know the one I'm talking about, the one that I could spend all day in just looking). Aisles and aisles of red and green. Even stacked on top of the non-Christmas themed aisles.  I was thinking, " Really?"

Then, earlier this morning, there was a post on a blog that I read about already thinking about saving for Christmas. Being a newlywed, this hit home with me. Money is tight right now for just about everyone, especially us newlyweds or soon-to-be-weds. I don't think people would expect a lot from us, but I love seeing the joy on people's faces when they've opened a gift that I put a lot of thought into.

So, the article I read suggested opening up a new savings account just for Christmas. I really don't think that's necessary unless you have a slew of kids and save the whole entire year for Christmas. Other people I know (namely my mom), buy little things they see all year round when they're on sale. The problem people have is not being able to find these things when it comes time for Christmas (I tend to get a few things around Valentine's day from my mom or grandma that were meant to be given at Christmas. lol).


I think the hubby and I will be sticking to Dave Ramsey's envelope system. I've read most of Dave's book The Total Money Makeover and I really like some of the things that he has to say about money....anyways. 


How do you handle saving for Christmas (and other money things) in your family?

Starting School...Again

It's that time again...

I LOVE back to school time.

  I LOVE buying school supplies. Even as a kid, I loved picking out what folders and binders I would have for the year. My favorite was always Lisa Frank, of course.

Source

Having all of these new supplies makes me feel organized and at peace with the world...at least until mid-semester when things get crazy and I stop using my planner.

I started graduate school at LSUS in their Specialist in School Psychology program about 2 weeks ago. Things are kinda hectic carrying 9 hours, a full time (20 hours/week) graduate assistantship, and working at my part-time job. Justin has been really amazing with helping keep the house clean and food on the table...although I sometimes wonder how often he secretly eats Ramen when I'm not around. Justin is still busy searching for a job. He had an interview earlier in the week that wasn't fruitful.  

This morning, Justin and I drove down to Jonesville for his family reunion. It was the 200th anniversary of the McClure's moving to this region. It was really nice meeting more of Justin's family, and I always enjoy spending time with his parents. I'm even sitting here (sort-of) watching the LSU game at their house. I must admit that I'm a Razorback girl thru-and-thru! We're going to swing through and visit my dad tomorrow on our way home. I, unfortunately, do not get to rest from my labors on Labor Day (yay for holiday pay!).

I hope all of you have a great Labor Day weekend!