I'm sure they call it the silly season for a good reason. It is meant to be a time for "GOOD CHEER"  but for some families it can be a time of 'MENTAL & FINANCIAL STRAIN". I hope, i may help some families out there with my tips

  I set aside $10 per week. At the start of every year the 1st of January,  I  have 4 jars.

1) For Meat  $2 per week, which gives me $104. Enough for a ham, or turkey  and some spare for everyday meat.

2) For Groceries $3 per week, which gives me $156, to spend on those extras, you seem to need over xmas.

3) For Presents $5 per week, which gives me $260, to help with the ever rising costs of presents.

4) This one can help in the overall of costs. It is not included in putting away $10 per week........ This jar i call my $2 jar, and between my husband & I,  everytime we have a $2 coin we put it in the jar. It is amazing how much it adds up......... Last year by december we had $560 put away. Which helped greatly, towards presents, food, drinks and extra's for when friends dropped around.

Even though we are on the down hill run to xmas ( 21 weeks to go, tomorrow) if you could manage to put away $10 per week, it would give you $210. That might not sound much, but  at that time of year i think every dollar $$$$$$ helps. Plus if you could put all your spare change into a jar, i think you would be amazed, at how it would help out.

"I wish good Cheer to all"