photo by aimai
Halloween is almost here. There are a lot of great deals to be discovered after the holiday. Not everything on sale is orange and black. A lot of autumn merchandise will be cleared out, too. A rule of thumb for bargain shopping is not to purchase items you don’t need simply because they’re cheap. It’s easier said than done. For years, I was a sucker for Black Friday …

photo by vieux bandit
Plan ahead for the upcoming holidays. If you’re organized, you’ll avoid overspending. Don’t wait until the last minute. There are plenty of ways you can prepare so you’re not completely stressed out later. Previously, I mentioned putting together a frugal notebook (www.frugalvillage.com/2009/05/22/create-a-frugal-notebook). One section to include in your binder is a holiday planner.
How do you plan ahead for the holidays?
Here are some planning suggestions.
RECIPES: Gather holiday …

photos by Le Petit Poulailler
It’s never too early to get organized for the holidays. Don’t be a last-minute shopper. Get a jump-start on your gift list now. What homemade gifts have you made?
Here are a few low-cost ideas for kids that can be standalone or add-on gifts.
BOOKMARKS: Buy various bolts of thin- and wide-width ribbon. Cut them into 12-inch strips. Attach a button to the top with tacky glue …

photo by bschmove
Mother’s Day traditions often include a meal out. You don’t want mom to have to think about cooking, and you want to pamper her on her special day. Showing you care doesn’t have to be a large expense. This year, instead of a crowded restaurant, family members can chip in and prepare a special meal for her at home. Add coffee or tea to round off the following …