Description

Crystal Paine is the creator of the amazing website MoneySavingMom.com.

WHAT ARE SOME WAYS YOUR FAMILY SAVORS THE MEANING OF CHRISTMAS?

To savor the meaning of Christmas, Crystal Payne's family engages in simple yet meaningful traditions. They use an Advent calendar, specifically Ann Voskamp's, which includes daily devotionals, to focus on the spiritual significance of the season. Additionally, they undertake a family giving project, where each member contributes and decides on a cause to support, fostering a sense of ownership and generosity.

• They use an Advent calendar with daily devotionals to focus on the meaning of Christmas.
• The family partakes in a giving project, where each member contributes and selects a cause.
• These activities help instill a sense of ownership and remind them of the true spirit of Christmas.

WHAT ARE SOME PRACTICAL WAYS TO MANAGE CHRISTMAS SPENDING AND GIFT GIVING?

When managing Christmas spending and gift-giving, it's crucial to start by determining who you need to buy for and align this with your budget. Consider simplifying gift-giving by choosing family or experience gifts. Crystal also suggests utilizing her website's guide for unique and inexpensive gift ideas that can suit anyone. These gifts can be homemade or experience-based, adding a personal touch while staying budget-friendly.

• Evaluate who you need to buy for and align this with your budget.
• Consider giving family or experience gifts to simplify the process.
• Utilize inexpensive, homemade gift ideas that are personal and unique.

HOW CAN YOU STRETCH YOUR CHRISTMAS BUDGET?

To stretch your Christmas budget, start with a clear budget and consider using cash only for purchases, including online shopping. Crystal suggests saving for Christmas throughout the year and earning gift cards for additional savings. Homemade gifts, like baked goods or DIY projects, are also great ways to give meaningful presents without overspending.

• Start with a clear budget and stick to cash-only purchases.
• Save throughout the year and earn gift cards for extra savings.
• Consider homemade gifts for a personal touch that aligns with your budget.

WHAT ARE SOME TIPS FOR FAMILY TOGETHERNESS AND ORGANIZATION DURING CHRISTMAS?

For family togetherness, Crystal recommends creating a "December Bucket List" where each family member chooses one or two special activities for the month, ensuring everyone's interests are considered. For organization, she advises writing everything down, perhaps using Google Calendar, and dividing up tasks among family members. Other suggestions include wrapping up Christmas books for daily reading and setting aside a special day for immediate family celebration.

• Create a "December Bucket List" for family members to choose special activities.
• Use tools like Google Calendar for organization and write down all tasks.
• Involve family members in preparations and consider unique traditions like reading wrapped Christmas books.
  
   

ANY LAST-MINUTE TIPS FOR STAYING ORGANIZED DURING THE HOLIDAYS?
To stay organized during the holidays, Crystal emphasizes the importance of simplifying and asking, "How can I make this easier?" She recommends writing down all tasks to clear your mind, seeking help from family members, and planning ahead for meals and events. Embracing shortcuts and preparing in advance, such as pre-making meals, can significantly reduce stress and enhance enjoyment of the holiday season.

• Simplify processes and ask how to make tasks easier.
• Write down all tasks and delegate responsibilities among family members.
• Plan meals and events in advance and embrace shortcuts to reduce holiday stress.

ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:  

• As a potential first-time homebuyer, I am wondering whether it's wise to take out a loan to buy a house in the current high Sarasota housing market, or should we wait?
• I will be losing my job soon and have a 401k with about $24,000 in it; should I roll it into an individual IRA or into my spouse's retirement plan?

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

• Fidelity
• Schwab Intelligent Portfolios
• Sound Mind Investing
   

Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach.

Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

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