Holiday Shopping Challenge with American Express | Win a $250 Amex Gift Card Giveaway Ended

Christmas is two weeks away and my time for gift shopping is coming down to the wire. This means I must start making plans and figure out how I’m going to shop for the people on my Christmas list without blowing my budget.

American Express membership reward points are a great way to stretch your holiday budget. I’ve been put to the challenge of showing how to stretch your holiday budget by using 40,000 membership reward points and purchasing the perfect gift for five of my loved ones.

Screen shot 2011-12-12 at 9.34.27 PM

This may be a difficult task to shop for five loved ones with 40,000 membership reward points but with planning and budgeting I believe that this can happen.

Small Business Saturday was on November 26th and many people took that day to show their support to small businesses everywhere. While this was a one day event I feel that small businesses need to be supported all of the time, they are the backbone to our economy!

Doggie Bow Ties

One place I have been window shopping at is Doggie Bow Ties, a small business that makes hair bows for Shih Tzus and Maltese dogs. Every dog wants to be pampered and pretty! Her dog bows are absolutely gorgeous and would make a great Christmas gift for any dog lover.

I’ve also been window shopping for a gift certificate to a local gym, Summit Fitness, as I know my husband loves to go there.

We love small businesses like this as they provide such personalized service and friendly faces that make you feel like you are family.

So over the course of the next week I will be planning and budgeting how I will use my membership reward points. When my mission is completed I will post to let you know how I did and what gifts I selected.

Be sure to check back!

How will you be stretching your budget for holiday shopping?

WIN IT!

One lucky Mommy of Two Little Monkeys reader is going to win a $250 American Express Gift Card!

How To Enter:

Use the rafflecopter form below to enter, do the mandatory entry and then you can do any of the additional entries!

Do you enjoy my blog and the giveaways I bring you?

Please vote for me on Top Mommy Blogs.
A single click on the banner below and you are done!

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a Rafflecopter giveaway

Rules: Contest will end at 11:01pm CST on January 3rd, 2012 when I will draw a winner at random using the Rafflecopter Random Selector.

Only 1 entry per household please. US Only please. 18 + . No purchase necessary to win.

You do NOT have to be a blogger to enter

Please leave your email address along with your comment if it is not located within your profile. Your email address will only be used to notify you if you won the giveaway. I will notify the winner via email and on my blog of their winnings and they will have 48 hours to respond.

Product was received for the purpose of facilitating my review. I have provided my honest thoughts and only recommend products or services that I feel will benefit my readers, your opinion may vary.

634 thoughts on “Holiday Shopping Challenge with American Express | Win a $250 Amex Gift Card Giveaway Ended

  • January 3, 2012 at 10:59 pm
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    I plan to stay on budget by sticking to sales

  • January 3, 2012 at 10:57 pm
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    I stayed on budget by making a list and sticking to it.

  • January 3, 2012 at 10:53 pm
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    Thanks for the giveaway…we made a budget for all our gift purchases, and followed it ! Also, we paid cash for all our purchases, did not use any credit cards !

    senorpiero [at] yahoo [dot] com

  • January 3, 2012 at 10:48 pm
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    I used bargains whenever i can

  • January 3, 2012 at 10:33 pm
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    I volunteer at a book shop and did some shopping for gifts there, since they were all half-price for me.

  • January 3, 2012 at 10:14 pm
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    I did my Christmas shopping buying only items on sale & with cash!

  • January 3, 2012 at 10:05 pm
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    Sales, sales, sales!

  • January 3, 2012 at 10:02 pm
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    i plan to stay on budget by using coupons and finding the best deals i can online.

  • January 3, 2012 at 10:02 pm
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    Buy only what you need. Thank you for this opportunity.

  • January 3, 2012 at 9:59 pm
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    I’d planned to stay on budget by making a list of who was getting what and sticking to it. I was somewhat successful.

  • January 3, 2012 at 9:58 pm
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    I did stay on budget! I cashed in points for giftcards and saved my winnings from giveaways so I spent minimal money!

  • January 3, 2012 at 9:45 pm
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    I set money aside every month for the whole year with the intent of only spending what was in that account. I shopped sales and actually had money left over to start next year’s Christmas fund!

  • January 3, 2012 at 9:34 pm
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    I used only cash, no credit cards.

  • January 3, 2012 at 9:32 pm
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    the last of the chrismas presents ended up being home made cookies. saved the budget! brought presents early when they were on sale to start early. making my 2012 list already :)

  • January 3, 2012 at 9:28 pm
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    I paid cash for everything. If we didn’t have the cash then we didn’t buy it!

  • January 3, 2012 at 9:23 pm
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    I stayed on budget by shopping a little bit at a time from September onwards. We lost our home in a fire this year and so it was especially important to be frugal.

  • January 3, 2012 at 9:21 pm
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    I took out a small amount of cash that I used to buy gifts.

  • January 3, 2012 at 9:19 pm
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    I created a Christmas shopping budget so no one was forgotten and I stayed financially ok….well, almost. :-) Thank you.

  • January 3, 2012 at 9:19 pm
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    By keeping a running list of all that I spend.

  • January 3, 2012 at 9:06 pm
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    90 percent of my christmas was funded through giveaways.

  • January 3, 2012 at 8:48 pm
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    I stayed on target this christmas by not going to the mall as often and not buying what i don’t need.

  • January 3, 2012 at 8:27 pm
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    I have a budget and I use cash and beyond that that is it. No more.
    spcale at yahoo dot com.

  • January 3, 2012 at 8:20 pm
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    Staying on budget was easy. We had $40 in cash and one $50 amex gift card and whatever I had at home that could be regifted. Since that is all that we had, that is all we spent and everyone we gave gifts to had nice things and I paid special attention to the wrapping so that they would look pretty as well.

  • January 3, 2012 at 8:08 pm
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    I shopped sales and bought handmade items.

    Thanks!

    This would come in handy for my wedding if I win.

  • January 3, 2012 at 7:59 pm
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    Stayed on budget by shopping sales and not using credit cards

  • January 3, 2012 at 7:54 pm
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    I did a good job of staying on budget this year. I gave gift certificates to my daughters and their husbands and I bought my grandchildren, what they wanted. The gift certificates saved me a lot of shopping and they can get whatever they want, so we were all happy.

  • January 3, 2012 at 7:53 pm
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    I stayed on budget by keeping to my shopping lists and not making any impulse buys.

    lisalmg25 at gmail dot com

  • January 3, 2012 at 7:38 pm
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    I stayed on budget by using gift cards that I had collected over time to buy Christmas gifts.

  • January 3, 2012 at 6:59 pm
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    I was able to stay on budget by buying early, I used coupons and gift cards that I had earned through reward points on my credit cards.

  • January 3, 2012 at 6:54 pm
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    I stayed on budget by having a list and shopping sales.

    sparkledazey (at) gmail (dot) com

  • January 3, 2012 at 6:53 pm
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    I stayed on budget by shopping sales online, winning GC, and reducing the number of gifts given this year.

  • January 3, 2012 at 6:48 pm
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    finished my shopping and stayed on budget by not giving in to impulse purchases.

  • January 3, 2012 at 6:46 pm
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    We cut way back on gifts this year. We gave photos of our little girl to family. It also helped buying for just our daughter and her cousins.

  • January 3, 2012 at 6:26 pm
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    I made it to a few last minute sales and was able to stay under budget!

  • January 3, 2012 at 6:19 pm
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    I tweeted again: marybaker112 Mary Baker
    #Win a $250 American Express Gift Card Ends 1/3 @ShopSmall @momof2monkeys mommyoftwolittlemonkeys.com/2011/12/holida…
    2 minutes ago Favorite Reply Delete

  • January 3, 2012 at 6:10 pm
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    google + richard hicks
    rss richard hicks

    brich22 at earthlink dot net

  • January 3, 2012 at 6:04 pm
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    we stayed on budget by purchasing only sale items!
    brich22 at earthlink dot net

  • January 3, 2012 at 5:57 pm
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    I’m going to stay on budget with the last of my Christmas shopping by taking advantage of all the discounted Christmas products around town.

  • January 3, 2012 at 5:33 pm
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    I stay on budget by shopping early and buying on sale.

  • January 3, 2012 at 4:59 pm
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    I stayed on budget by buying throughout the year so I wouldn’t have so much to buy in the last month! I also used Amazon Prime (which I got free) & waited until somethings went on big sales! I scored a Disney Princess laptop for my daughter who has been asking one for a year for 1/2 price! :)

  • January 3, 2012 at 4:56 pm
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    I shopped clearance deals throughout the year so we didn’t have to spend much at all!

  • January 3, 2012 at 4:44 pm
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    I stayed on budget by keeping track of receipts and writing money spent down!
    cmarquez482(at)ymail(d0t)com

  • January 3, 2012 at 4:40 pm
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    used cash,that helped tons!
    ardelong2(at)gmail(dot)com

  • January 3, 2012 at 4:24 pm
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    I think i stayed in budget but would love to win to help pay for what i bought!

  • January 3, 2012 at 3:58 pm
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    We paid cash to stay on track.
    Google+ – chisum crew

  • January 3, 2012 at 3:49 pm
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    Well I stayed on budget by having a plan!

    lyndsey.rullman at hotmail dot com

  • January 3, 2012 at 3:40 pm
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    I stayed on budget by making notecards and holiday treats to give as gifts this year. All I had to purchase was materials.

  • January 3, 2012 at 3:20 pm
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    I stayed on budget by using groupon and living social.

  • January 3, 2012 at 3:17 pm
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    I stuck to my list of predetermined items and made sure I did not stray from it.

  • January 3, 2012 at 3:06 pm
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    I stay on budget by buying fewer presents. Thanks!

  • January 3, 2012 at 2:50 pm
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    i plan on staying in budget by buying one gift for couples in my family instead of one for each person.

  • January 3, 2012 at 2:30 pm
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    I stayed on budget by taking advantage of Black Friday sales and shopping other sales throughout the year.

  • January 3, 2012 at 2:21 pm
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    I stayed on budget using sales and in store coupons for great deals and discouts

  • January 3, 2012 at 2:21 pm
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    I used cash only and had a set amount for each child.

  • January 3, 2012 at 2:11 pm
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    I have a Christmas budget where I set aside a specific amount Jan.- Nov. so that I know exactly what I can spend on presents.

    jweezie43[at]gmail[dot]com

  • January 3, 2012 at 2:03 pm
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    All my Christmas shopping was done on a budget, so I don’t really have to stress about it later

    faithful1104 at gmail dot com

  • January 3, 2012 at 1:55 pm
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    I stayed on budget this year by putting things for the kids in layaway months before Christmas! It really helped my money situation and helped my stress level as well lol!

  • January 3, 2012 at 1:31 pm
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    To stay on budget I used cash only this year, and had a set amount for each person

  • January 3, 2012 at 12:56 pm
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    I stay on budget by paying cash. That way I only spend what I have.

  • January 3, 2012 at 12:48 pm
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    I try really hard to stick to the list, and always search online for the best bargains!

  • January 3, 2012 at 12:21 pm
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    used cash instead of credit card.
    jofo120 at yahoo dot com

  • January 3, 2012 at 11:59 am
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    I stayed on budget by drastically cutting my gift list. I lost my job this past Fall, so things are tight.

  • January 3, 2012 at 11:36 am
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    I stayed on budget by looking for deals online.

  • January 3, 2012 at 11:26 am
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    I stayed on budget by using cash to make my purchases.

  • January 3, 2012 at 11:23 am
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    I stayed on a budget with the last of my christmas shopping by doing most of my shopping online, it’s so easy to compare to get the best deal and I also use online coupon codes to get free shipping or discounts!

  • January 3, 2012 at 11:15 am
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    We kept a strict budget of $50 a person. Mostly we bought gift cards, so that did well to keep us at budget.

  • January 3, 2012 at 10:41 am
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    I tried to stay on budget, but did not do a very good job! :(

  • January 3, 2012 at 10:39 am
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    Well, we weren’t able to do Christmas this year and are pinching pennies. Can’t spend what you don’t have.

  • January 3, 2012 at 10:38 am
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    We try and use coupons when we go out to eat. Saves a bunch if you take a few minutes to look online.

  • January 3, 2012 at 10:27 am
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    I stayed on budget because I really didn’t have a choice. I used gift certificates that I earned/won and only spent $35 out of pocket, that I had saved in change. If you don’t have it you cannot spend it and I do not believe in putting Christmas shopping on credit.

  • January 3, 2012 at 10:13 am
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    I stuck to my list to stay on budget

  • January 3, 2012 at 10:12 am
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    I stayed on budget by making sure i got my family exactly what they wanted.. i didnt waste money and they were thrilled.. I just asked em

  • January 3, 2012 at 10:08 am
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    I stay on budget by sticking to what Im supposed to buy and splurging or buying things on a whim.

  • January 3, 2012 at 10:04 am
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    I really want to consider what I buy, no impulse spending. Use coupons wisely and reduce my carbon footprint

  • January 3, 2012 at 10:00 am
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    I forgot my email in the box – it’s discriminating_diva at yahoo dot com

  • January 3, 2012 at 9:50 am
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    I stayed on budget by cutting down on the presents.

  • January 3, 2012 at 9:27 am
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    I always make a list of items and stick to it :)

  • January 3, 2012 at 9:19 am
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    I stayed on budget by shopping sales. I didn’t pay full price for anything. I searched the web for online coupons and then looked for best sales at stores. It really saved us a ton of money. Thank you!!

  • January 3, 2012 at 9:04 am
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    Coupons!! Sales!!

  • January 3, 2012 at 7:58 am
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    I shopped online for most of my Christmas gifts this year. Usually found free shipping & discount codes to make the items discounted lower than the in store prices. Plus the convenience of the packages being shipped right to my doorstep!

  • January 3, 2012 at 7:26 am
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    I used gift cards and cash only for Christmas this year to stay on budget. Much less stress that way.

  • January 3, 2012 at 12:43 am
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    I did all my shopping super early via sales online like amazon and then hit the outlets during black Friday! I ended up saving a ton and all my online shopping was shipped free!
    Allie at alliemwolf@yahoo.com

  • January 3, 2012 at 12:02 am
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    I stayed on budget by earning gift cards while shopping and hitting lot of online only sales.

    Rebecca Niehaus
    imsosweepy at gmail dot com

  • January 2, 2012 at 11:50 pm
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    I stayed on budget by shopping sales throughout the year and using amazon gift cards I earned through survey sites.

  • January 2, 2012 at 11:47 pm
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    This year I used cash only – no credit – to stay on budget.

  • January 2, 2012 at 11:11 pm
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    I shopped early all through the year and didn’t have any left to do for Christmas.

  • January 2, 2012 at 11:10 pm
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    Our budget was really tight this year. We set $100 for each of our 3 children. We did pretty well. I think we only went over by $30.

  • January 2, 2012 at 11:02 pm
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    I always comparison shop, whether it’s for Christmas or birthdays or everyday use. Also, I use the after-Christmas sales to buy small gift items that can be used for gift occasions throughout the year, as well as at Christmas.

  • January 2, 2012 at 11:01 pm
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    I stayed on budget this year by learning about ebates through everyones blog posts. I introduced to my fmaily and friends. soon a little check will be arriving.. how nice is that!

  • January 2, 2012 at 10:59 pm
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    I stayed on budget by doing black friday, and cyber monday sales.

    itsjustme62613 at gmail.com

  • January 2, 2012 at 10:40 pm
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    I stayed on budget by not having much extra money to go over with in the first place, hehe! That and having a short list of people to shop for and a solid idea of what to get already coupled with some homemade things … ;)

  • January 2, 2012 at 10:14 pm
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    Well we didnt really have a budget. We just scraped up what we could and made it work.

  • January 2, 2012 at 10:14 pm
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    I stayed on budget by making a list, and shopping online only. It was very easy to avoid temptation/

  • January 2, 2012 at 10:09 pm
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    I made a list of gift ideas for family and stuck to it.

  • January 2, 2012 at 10:05 pm
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    keeping it simple

  • January 2, 2012 at 9:52 pm
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    I stayed on budget by making a list & sticking to it.

    luckycat1818(at)yahoo(dot)com

  • January 2, 2012 at 9:25 pm
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    By buying gifts for only the closest family members

    wolverina401 at gmail dot com

  • January 2, 2012 at 9:25 pm
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    I’m going to stay on budget by setting aside money for gifts, and when it’s gone, no more shopping.

  • January 2, 2012 at 9:17 pm
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    only shopped where I got free shipping

    jdmimi at gmail dot com

  • January 2, 2012 at 9:16 pm
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    I stayed on a budget by hitting up all the mark downs.

  • January 2, 2012 at 8:41 pm
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    stick to a strict budget and compare prices

  • January 2, 2012 at 8:03 pm
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    Since Christmas is already over…we plan to stay on budget by only allotting a certain amount for each child and then trying to stretch that amount using Black Friday sales.

    boylaneely at hotmail dot com

  • January 2, 2012 at 7:54 pm
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    I set a budget for each person & stick to it no matter what!

  • January 2, 2012 at 7:50 pm
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    I stayed on budget by shopping around, checking the internet on where to go for the best deals, and only allowing myself to use what cash I was able to put away for Christmas.

  • January 2, 2012 at 7:39 pm
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    Hit the sales! Always!
    Awesome blog by the way and thanks for the giveaway!
    Would love, love, LOVE to win this!
    =]
    iplaytrack1224(at)hotmail(dot)(com)

  • January 2, 2012 at 7:28 pm
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    I didn’t have much of a budget for Christmas this year, so it was pretty easy to stay on track. If I were to win this prize, I would start on next Christmas!

  • January 2, 2012 at 7:27 pm
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    I shop sales throughout the year so I have very little shopping to do at Christmas

  • January 2, 2012 at 7:25 pm
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    I watched for sales. I also quit buying for the person when I had met the total that I had planned to spend on them. That is hard when you see another thing you know they would like!

  • January 2, 2012 at 6:50 pm
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    I stayed on budget by doing all of my shopping online and I saved the emails so I could keep a total

  • January 2, 2012 at 6:47 pm
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    I used a lot of sales/coupons. Got a lot of gift cards from doing things like Swagbucks etc..

    misteedawnw at aol dot com

  • January 2, 2012 at 6:23 pm
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    I shop last minute sales. Thanks for the giveaway.

  • January 2, 2012 at 5:36 pm
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    I try to stay ahead of my shopping by writing out lists for each person of what I want to get them.

  • January 2, 2012 at 5:01 pm
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    I made a list, set a spending limit and actually stuck with it this year!

  • January 2, 2012 at 4:56 pm
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    I cashed out points for gift cards so I could minimize my monetary expenses!

  • January 2, 2012 at 4:41 pm
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    I stayed on budget by hitting the sales throughout the year and buying a little at a time. I also did some homemade gifts.

  • January 2, 2012 at 4:27 pm
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    Making gifts is a great way to cut your expenses!

  • January 2, 2012 at 4:16 pm
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    I stayed on a budget by not going to the mall and buying online.

  • January 2, 2012 at 4:16 pm
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    Stick to the sale items

  • January 2, 2012 at 4:10 pm
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    I stayed on budget by waiting it out for the best deals to come around

  • January 2, 2012 at 4:07 pm
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    i shopped all year long for deals and clearances so i wasnt spending all my money at christmas

  • January 2, 2012 at 2:46 pm
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    I stay on a budget and watch for sales. I try to start early, because I am retired with limited income

  • January 2, 2012 at 2:38 pm
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    I take out a certain amount of cash, and once it’s gone, I am done!

  • January 2, 2012 at 2:21 pm
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    I buy most gifts throughout the year,when I find sales. So, not a lot are left for the last minute. I set aside a certain amount for those-and stay within it!

  • January 2, 2012 at 2:20 pm
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    I shop thru the year to take advantage of sales. It saves money and also last minute panic shopping.

  • January 2, 2012 at 2:15 pm
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    I stayed on budget with sales

  • January 2, 2012 at 2:06 pm
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    I put away money each month into a christmas fund and whatever is in there by Dce 15 is what I am able to spend, not a penny more. It helps me stay focused on what I really need to buy and keeps me from spending extra

  • January 2, 2012 at 1:53 pm
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    Set a limit on how many gifts to buy.

  • January 2, 2012 at 1:11 pm
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    I just did it this Christmas by remembering it was just a day and not buying into so much of the misc. hooplah of it.

  • January 2, 2012 at 12:55 pm
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    We set a dollar limit for each person.

  • January 2, 2012 at 12:26 pm
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    I spent three long years getting myself out of debt and now that we have savings, a home, and an emegency fund, we pay for christmas with cash. Everything is much easier when you get your kids involved with the budget process as well!

  • January 2, 2012 at 11:50 am
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    I stretched our budget by using our reward points on our credit card as well as cashing in my Swagbucks for Amazon gift cards. Every little bit helped!!

    Thanks for the chance!

    Stephanie
    mybabyblessings AT gmail DOT com

  • January 2, 2012 at 11:25 am
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    I shopped sales.

  • January 2, 2012 at 11:06 am
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    clearance racks
    amy16323(at)gmail(dot)com

  • January 2, 2012 at 10:17 am
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    I stayed on budget for holiday shopping by not buying any presents.

  • January 2, 2012 at 10:01 am
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    I made a list and refused to go over the amount budgeted for each person.

    dlsloveblogs at gmail dot com

  • January 2, 2012 at 9:24 am
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    We shop sales and when possible use Swagbucks I won.

  • January 2, 2012 at 9:03 am
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    I stayed on budget by shopping all year long and catching sales. Sometimes I shop after Christmas for the following year.

  • January 2, 2012 at 5:49 am
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    I like to do my shopping online, usually I can find free shipping, a coupon code for an additional discount and no tax.

  • January 2, 2012 at 2:58 am
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    I stayed on budget by sticking to my list and I am finished.
    gabe411 at hotmail dot com

  • January 2, 2012 at 12:42 am
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    I plan to stay on budget because Christmas is over now! haha ;) I stayed on budget though because I have such a small income right now that there really isn’t any way to go over budget.

  • January 2, 2012 at 12:21 am
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    I stuck to a budget and my list
    vmkids3 at msn dot com

  • January 1, 2012 at 11:59 pm
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    I stay on budget by setting a limit and bringing cash

  • January 1, 2012 at 11:51 pm
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    I saved some gift cards I won as well as paypal and amazon payments I’ve received. I also had a holiday club

  • January 1, 2012 at 11:48 pm
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    i’m going to make a list and stick to it, no extras

  • January 1, 2012 at 11:43 pm
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    I stayed on budget by preplanning. I kept a list of who, what they like and budgeted amount to spend. Then it was scouring ads in the paper and on line for the best deals.

  • January 1, 2012 at 10:37 pm
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    I did a lot of shopping online at ebay and amazon which gave me a chance to comparison shop among vendors. I utilized merchants that offered free shipping so I didn’t have to spend money on gas as well.

  • January 1, 2012 at 10:27 pm
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    I had my son get a job to help pay for the expensive gadgets he wanted. Good work all around thru neighbors!

  • January 1, 2012 at 10:13 pm
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    Christmas is over, but I watch sale ads and shop online to stay within budget.

    nancymeyer1 at gmail.com

  • January 1, 2012 at 10:06 pm
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    I shopped sales!

  • January 1, 2012 at 10:03 pm
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    I managed to cover christmas gifts with retail coupons and by using my associate discount at kohls

  • January 1, 2012 at 9:58 pm
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    I stayed on budget by using cash back sites, free shipping codes, and the Mastercard $20 gift card reward program

  • January 1, 2012 at 9:57 pm
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    We didn’t have a budget this year really. Just stayed within our drawing amounts as needed.

  • January 1, 2012 at 9:55 pm
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    With tougher times, we had very limited funds for Christmas shopping this year. I only paid cash for everything & it feels so nice to not have the stress of paying bills & finance charges!

  • January 1, 2012 at 9:51 pm
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    I started shopping VERY early so I wouldn’t have to spend tons of cash at once!
    aeris321 at gmail dot com

  • January 1, 2012 at 9:45 pm
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    Won’t be hard for me since Chrismas is over but I stay on budget by not doing the present thing… at all.

  • January 1, 2012 at 9:33 pm
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    my plan to stay on budget involved lots of comparison shopping online. I saved a bundle.

  • January 1, 2012 at 9:30 pm
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    There was no budget because there was no extra money for christmas this year.

  • January 1, 2012 at 8:52 pm
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    coupons and sales

  • January 1, 2012 at 8:41 pm
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    I stayed on budget by watching out for the best deals and doing a lot of shopping online.

  • January 1, 2012 at 8:30 pm
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    We keep list of gifts we are going to get.

    tahearn at roadrunner dot com

  • January 1, 2012 at 5:38 pm
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    I used only what money I had set aside for it.

  • January 1, 2012 at 5:34 pm
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    I only took cash, left the credit cards at home.

  • January 1, 2012 at 5:31 pm
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    I stayed on budget by shopping sales, using coupons and did not put anything on a credit card. Paid all in cash.

  • January 1, 2012 at 5:30 pm
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    I love having some family holidays after Christmas. Why? After Christmas sales! That’s how I manage to stay in budget every year (:

  • January 1, 2012 at 4:37 pm
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    I kept within budget by purchasing a little all year long and waiting for sales.

  • January 1, 2012 at 4:34 pm
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    I stayed in my budget with holiday shopping by buying gifts throughout the year and using promo codes online.

  • January 1, 2012 at 3:47 pm
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    We had a Christmas exchange at church this year. There were over 27,000 gifts. All I had to do was show up and shop. :-)

  • January 1, 2012 at 3:21 pm
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    We give only homemade so it should be very easy.

  • January 1, 2012 at 3:19 pm
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    I put what I want to spend for Christmas into a debit card. When the money is gone, I stop shopping.
    sewingmema1720@yahoo.com

  • January 1, 2012 at 3:11 pm
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    i handmade many gifts

  • January 1, 2012 at 3:09 pm
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    I stayed on budget by sticking to the plan – I negotiated scale-downs with recipients.

    ky2here at msn dot com

  • January 1, 2012 at 1:35 pm
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    I stayed on budget by making a list, checking store prices online, and paying in cash.

  • January 1, 2012 at 1:23 pm
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    I stayed on budget by buying things on sale during the year.
    bdavisnc at gmail dot com

  • January 1, 2012 at 1:14 pm
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    I am going to make a list and stick to it!

  • January 1, 2012 at 12:49 pm
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    i use a prepaid debit card

  • January 1, 2012 at 12:38 pm
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    I stayed on budget by making lists of what I wanted to get every person back in October/November and then watching for each item to go on sale!

  • January 1, 2012 at 11:26 am
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    I managed to stay on budget by comparative shopping using the internet and buying a lot from Amazon. As they don’t have an overhead, they can offer books, movies and games at the best price. Thanks for a great giveaway!

  • January 1, 2012 at 11:11 am
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    stay on budget by look for sales

  • January 1, 2012 at 10:43 am
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    I stayed on budget by starting early and shopping good sales

  • January 1, 2012 at 9:32 am
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    Well Christmas is over, but I planned my budget and used an Excel spreadsheet to track everything. I did great!

  • January 1, 2012 at 8:32 am
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    I shopped throughout the year for sales and good buys and got most gifts ahead of time. That eases the December budget.

    chrisdeglen(at)gmail(dot)com

  • January 1, 2012 at 3:30 am
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    I stick to my shopping list and combine coupons and price comparison results to get the best deals.

  • January 1, 2012 at 1:21 am
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    I have a hard time staying on buget. I always see one more thing that I think I have to buy, which leads to one more thing. Maybe my New Years resolution should be make a budget and stick to it.

  • January 1, 2012 at 12:58 am
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    I stayed on budget by sticking to my lists and not getting a bunch of last minute impulse purchases.

  • December 31, 2011 at 10:32 pm
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    stayed on budget not shopping

  • December 31, 2011 at 9:07 pm
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    I stayed on budget by making a list of all the things I needed to buy and looking for good deals online.

    alittlepieceofheaven777(at)yahoo(dot)com

  • December 31, 2011 at 8:11 pm
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    I had a list that I stuck to diligently! I also took advantage of free shipping at Amazon

  • December 31, 2011 at 6:55 pm
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    I stayed on budget by finding the best deals.

  • December 31, 2011 at 6:54 pm
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    I stayed on budget by finding the best deals possible.

  • December 31, 2011 at 6:45 pm
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    I stayed on budget by taking advantage of Black Friday deals, store coupons, and buying things earlier in the year when I found them on sale.

  • December 31, 2011 at 5:47 pm
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    In our family we have a limit on how much can be spent on each person. So that makes it easy to stick to a budget. As it happened, a month before Christmas I won a huge gift card courtesy of Toys R’ Us, so the grandkids had an insanely extravagant Christmas, but the budget remained intact.

  • December 31, 2011 at 4:13 pm
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    sticking to our list

  • December 31, 2011 at 4:11 pm
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    we stayed on budget by looking out for black friday deals!

  • December 31, 2011 at 3:38 pm
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    We earned gift cards through our health insurance and my doing surveys online as well as hand crafting items.

  • December 31, 2011 at 2:34 pm
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    I know it sounds tacky, but I just had to stop… before I was done and tell a couple people that their gifts would be late. I’m now shopping the after Christmas sales… or at least watching them. Could really use some extra cash! Thx for the giveaway!
    welindsey at gmail dot com

  • December 31, 2011 at 2:31 pm
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    I have gift cards saved up and look out for sales.

  • December 31, 2011 at 1:09 pm
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    I stuck to my list..literally avoiding browsing. Just in and out trips to the stores!

  • December 31, 2011 at 1:00 pm
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    I stayed on budget by following blogs & getting the best deal for my money!

  • December 31, 2011 at 12:48 pm
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    I stayed on budget by taking advantage of sales.

  • December 31, 2011 at 12:47 pm
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    I just bought things on sale. thanks for the giveaway!

    aemgeg4 (@) yahoo (dot) com

  • December 31, 2011 at 12:43 pm
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    I stayed on budget by planing on how much I was spending and only taking cash no credit or bank cards with me

  • December 31, 2011 at 12:31 pm
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    I stayed on budget because the Ogre and I agreed to only give each other items from the Dollar Store! :D

  • December 31, 2011 at 12:20 pm
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    I started my shopping early. In August! I paid cash for most of the gifts along the way. And I made a wish list on Amazon.com to keep track of what I still needed to purchase.

  • December 31, 2011 at 11:59 am
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    I stay on budget by a combination of discipline and methods that allow me to adhere to my desired spending: coupons, discount codes, use of ebates, waiting until items are on sale, etc.

  • December 31, 2011 at 9:40 am
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    I always use coupons when buying gifts or holiday decorations!

  • December 31, 2011 at 7:56 am
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    Sales – and stop when I’m out of money

  • December 31, 2011 at 7:41 am
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    Christmas shopping already done and I didn’t really set a budget.

  • December 31, 2011 at 3:49 am
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    I start the day after Christmas and spread shopping out all year! I am done WAY before Christmas and then anything that I get after that is gravy. Scores this year included blocks that I made money buying, Toy Story items at 1/2 off and a drum set for @10 (normally $60)!

  • December 30, 2011 at 11:03 pm
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    I plan to stay on budget by sticking to buying only the items on my list. I make a lot of presents for family!

  • December 30, 2011 at 9:27 pm
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    We stayed on budget by making a list of who we had to buy for and set an amount to spend and we stuck to that amount.

  • December 30, 2011 at 8:39 pm
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    Staying on budget by researching gifts online and looking for deals, coupons and extra discounts via my social media networks!

  • December 30, 2011 at 7:32 pm
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    when to say enough is enough

  • December 30, 2011 at 6:16 pm
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    I used giveaways to help supplememt christmas this year

  • December 30, 2011 at 5:49 pm
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    hamjenny@aol.com I am going to do my best to reduce my debt to make me feel more comfortable

  • December 30, 2011 at 4:16 pm
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    I plan to stay on budget by limiting my buying to cash and eating at home.

  • December 30, 2011 at 4:08 pm
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    i stayed on budget buying sale items.

  • December 30, 2011 at 3:26 pm
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    I am hitting the after Christmas clearance sales to get the gifts for extended family members we won’t see until after Christmas.
    mmjohnson555@gmail.com

  • December 30, 2011 at 2:33 pm
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    I plan to stay on budget by not impulse shopping.

  • December 30, 2011 at 2:15 pm
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    Well With such great after christmas sales I just buy gift cards for my family and they can get the most out of it.

  • December 30, 2011 at 1:09 pm
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    I use swagbucks and superpoints to get my last shopping done :) it’s all free and so easy to do every single day. If you don’t have one or the other or both feel free to ask me about it and I may be able to refer you :)

    Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year to All

    thanks for the chance to win some $$$

  • December 30, 2011 at 11:24 am
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    Swagbucks helped me buy gifts this year!

  • December 30, 2011 at 10:47 am
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    i do use lots of coupons for my monthly grocery shopping,i am also using evelope system to stay on the budget.I am member about 10 money making sited where i earn extra money for clothing,shoes and gifts for xmas..

  • December 30, 2011 at 10:12 am
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    The season is now over for me with my son’s bday on the 29th now over, start again in January by using coupons at stores, buy gifts online with the free shipping ads i find.

  • December 30, 2011 at 5:40 am
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    I would look for the items and gifts I had on my list and would wait till they went on sale! I also used coupons (ex: at Kohl’s and saved 15% off my total).

  • December 30, 2011 at 5:35 am
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    i had a set list and shopped early online for the best deals. totally stayed in my budget, got everything on time, and barely had to leave the house!

    danielle b
    ferriza2(at)yahoo(dot)com

  • December 30, 2011 at 1:08 am
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    I stayed on budget by sticking to my Christmas List!

  • December 30, 2011 at 12:00 am
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    I handmade a # of gifts this year:) less money but also less time…

  • December 29, 2011 at 10:19 pm
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    I stayed on budget this year by using gift cards and making baskets with some purchased some homemade items.

  • December 29, 2011 at 10:13 pm
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    I stayed on budget by not going beyond our means and not using credit cards.

  • December 29, 2011 at 10:01 pm
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    I will stay on budget by only buying item on sale and matching coupons to circular ads! :)

  • December 29, 2011 at 9:47 pm
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    I make a list and price point for each gift and then check sale ads to make sure I get the best price. I also use those ads to price match at the stores I shop.

  • December 29, 2011 at 9:10 pm
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    I stayed on budget this year by buying items on sale and only using cash.

  • December 29, 2011 at 8:14 pm
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    I stayed on budget by winning a lot of gifts through giveaways.

  • December 29, 2011 at 2:39 pm
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    I’m done shopping (Christmas is over) but I gave a limit per gift before I set out shopping.

    Thanks!

  • December 29, 2011 at 2:09 pm
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    I LIKE to make a list and only buy what is on my list and find them on sale!!!

  • December 29, 2011 at 1:59 pm
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    I have two kids with December birthdays…plus Christmas. I stay on budget by shopping, using coupons, and taking advantage opf sales and deals throughout the year (at least in the months leading up to December)

  • December 29, 2011 at 12:14 pm
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    To stay on budget my husband and I wrote out a list of all of our family members, how much we wanted to spend and ideas of what we would like to get them. We started early, stuck to the list and then bought the gifts when we found the best deal!

  • December 29, 2011 at 12:14 pm
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    I plan on buying items now for next Christmas.

  • December 29, 2011 at 10:19 am
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    Done my shopping now. I guess I should have had a plan because we went WAY over budget this year…

  • December 29, 2011 at 9:47 am
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    WHen I buy the last gift I tell myself it is time to relax and take the time to enjoy the season, no more buying no matter what.

  • December 29, 2011 at 8:14 am
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    I only use cash that way I cannot overspend. Thank you

  • December 29, 2011 at 4:20 am
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    Don’t spend beyond your means. I know low monthly payments on a credit card don’t seem to bad but, interest can be a monster. Keep a credit card on had only to increase your credit score when you have the money in the account to pay it right off. Accumulating debt isn’t going to help. Plan and save through out the year for holiday gifts so that Christmas can stay a joyous time for everyone.

  • December 28, 2011 at 10:41 pm
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    Will stay within my budget by sticking to my list & checking the Sunday ads.
    Easier said than done!
    Thank you.

  • December 28, 2011 at 9:25 pm
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    It wasn’t intentional
    It just happened
    I was sick
    And so I had no choice but to shop the last day……..when everything was marked down
    and I focused and didn’t (couldn’t) get distracted.

    xxoo
    feeling better now

  • December 28, 2011 at 8:31 pm
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    I take the cash I plan to spend and that is it.

    missysweepsalot at gmail dot com

  • December 28, 2011 at 8:16 pm
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    Incorporate coupons and deals as much as possible and when all else fails home made gifts paired with store bought works wonders :)

  • December 28, 2011 at 8:09 pm
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    Staying on budget is hard, but if you shop for people in pairs with a target spending amount, you can help yourself stay on goal.

  • December 28, 2011 at 5:37 pm
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    I keep a list and set a $ amount for each person.

  • December 28, 2011 at 5:16 pm
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    Buy one get one free toys!!

  • December 28, 2011 at 4:51 pm
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    buy only what is on your list…don’t fall for the sale stuff on store endcaps!!!

  • December 28, 2011 at 2:35 pm
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    I stayed on budget near the end by utilizing sales online and in stores. It really does help. And using dollar stores goes over well for some people…they really DO have nice things if you look.

  • December 28, 2011 at 2:06 pm
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    i stayed on budget by only shopping the sales

  • December 28, 2011 at 1:00 pm
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    I tried to stretch my funds by finding coupons and free shipping deals when shopping online. I also got some items early that came with gift cards back on the purchases.

  • December 28, 2011 at 12:59 pm
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    To stay on budget, I shopped sales and online. I did research before making any purchases.

    Thanks!
    Jayme
    jaymee76 at gmail dot com

  • December 28, 2011 at 11:13 am
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    Make a list and stick to it. Look for sales on those items.

  • December 28, 2011 at 10:08 am
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    I plan to shop the sales.

  • December 28, 2011 at 10:02 am
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    I didn’t do so well staying on budget. simply because I always buy way to much for my daughter.
    But next year will be different and I will stick to a strict amount I can spend for her.
    mommy2skie@yahoo.com

  • December 28, 2011 at 9:58 am
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    I stayed on budget by making a list with price ranges and stuck to the list.

  • December 28, 2011 at 8:53 am
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    I’m hoping that there will be a lot of markdowns closer to Christmas so I can save.

  • December 28, 2011 at 8:40 am
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    I will be stretching my budget for holiday shopping by using coupons, matching prices at a big corporate store, and shopping online with rewards programs.

  • December 28, 2011 at 3:15 am
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    buy things on sale

  • December 28, 2011 at 12:56 am
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    I stayed on budget by making some gifts homemade and being creative. we were given money for Christmas, and I didn’t go over that amount when buying gifts, so that kept us on budget.

  • December 27, 2011 at 11:09 pm
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    I use the cash envelope system to stay on budget.

  • December 27, 2011 at 11:02 pm
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    We acquire Amazon gift cards using Swagbucks throughout the year that we use for gifts.

  • December 27, 2011 at 11:02 pm
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    Coupons are how I did most of my Christmas shopping. Without them we would of had a pretty sad christmas.

  • December 27, 2011 at 11:00 pm
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    make a list and stick to it ! that helps me stay on budget!

  • December 27, 2011 at 10:47 pm
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    I only use cash for holiday shopping that I have put aside thru the year. I can’t add to it so I stay on track no matter what!

  • December 27, 2011 at 10:47 pm
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    Luckily, I was able to find the last few things I had on my shopping list on sale! Coupons helped too :)

  • December 27, 2011 at 9:55 pm
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    I had no money for Christmas so it was pretty easy to stay on budget. I stayed home, alone, not even having a Christmas dinner. It would have been nice to have had some extra money.

  • December 27, 2011 at 9:54 pm
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    I make sure that I got the must haves for my son and didn’t go overboard with the other kiddos as much as I usually do during the holidays.

  • December 27, 2011 at 9:13 pm
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    I shop year-round, so that I can enjoy my holiday baking.

  • December 27, 2011 at 8:58 pm
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    I stayed on budget by only using cash! I left the credit cards at home to avoid those impulse purchases!

  • December 27, 2011 at 8:50 pm
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    I made a spreadsheet in September and budgeted out an amount for each person. I stuck to it pretty well, except with my own kids!

  • December 27, 2011 at 8:48 pm
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    I stay on budget by making alist of what I want to get each person and looks for potential sales on that item.

  • December 27, 2011 at 8:42 pm
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    I stayed on budget by winning, winning, winning!! I love my coupon bloggers :)

  • December 27, 2011 at 8:37 pm
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    Shopping Kid To Kid Stores (second hand stores) and coupons. We did it and all 3 kids were happy!!

  • December 27, 2011 at 6:44 pm
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    I finished shopping and only spent what I had in my Christmas Fund

  • December 27, 2011 at 6:10 pm
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    I made a budget and stick to it

  • December 27, 2011 at 3:31 pm
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    Shopping is over and I successfully stayed on budget, by looking for toys that really suited my child, which did not cost a lot. Her fave was the $6 Fusion Ball!

  • December 27, 2011 at 2:38 pm
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    be creative with diy projects and use coupons

  • December 27, 2011 at 11:04 am
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    I stayed on budget with the rest of my christmas shopping by making a list and checking off each person.

  • December 27, 2011 at 9:54 am
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    I made sure to stick to my list and prices that I had set to spend. Also, we paid for all our Christmas shopping – nothing was charged.

  • December 27, 2011 at 6:31 am
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    I make a list and stick to it.

  • December 27, 2011 at 1:20 am
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    My way of staying in budget for Christmas was to start shopping early so I could find better deals on stuff rather than waiting till the last minute and having to pay full price for everything.

  • December 27, 2011 at 1:20 am
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    My way of staying in budget for Christmas was to start shopping early so I could find better deals on stuff rather than waiting till the last minute and having to pay full price for everything.

  • December 26, 2011 at 11:22 pm
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    Sales, sales and sales!

  • December 26, 2011 at 10:05 pm
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    Im actually using tags and wrappings I bought from last years xmas clearance sales.

  • December 26, 2011 at 10:00 pm
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    Black Friday shopping, contests, hand made items, and sales

  • December 26, 2011 at 9:58 pm
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    find everything on sale. found some great deals on amazon.com

  • December 26, 2011 at 9:55 pm
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    I’m shopping only sales that have at least %50 off of items I want.

  • December 26, 2011 at 8:58 pm
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    I’m going to use coupon codes, free shipping, and cashback!

  • December 26, 2011 at 7:45 pm
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    Well, my holiday shopping is over and I sorta stayed on budget, lol. I Googled for a lot of coupon codes/deals, watched blogs for super sales, and won a few toys for my children via blog giveaways.

  • December 26, 2011 at 6:59 pm
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    It is easy for me to stay on budget. We are Jewish and we only buy 16 gifts to split between our two children. Moderation is the key to not breaking our budget !!!

  • December 26, 2011 at 6:19 pm
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    I had to give a dollar limit to each person and that was it! Thanks,

  • December 26, 2011 at 5:59 pm
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    checking online for deals and coupon codes

  • December 26, 2011 at 4:43 pm
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    I keep an eye out for sales and usually get the the BOGO deals. Thanks for the awesome giveaway :)

    Renee
    fattybumpkins at yahoo dot com

  • December 26, 2011 at 11:53 am
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    i’m staying in budget by hitting the sales rack!

    xyoulovekarlene at gmail dot com

  • December 25, 2011 at 10:40 pm
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    I didn’t have to worry about my budget because I shopped early and only bought bargains.

  • December 25, 2011 at 9:45 pm
    Permalink

    I will be comparison shopping online to stay in my budget.

  • December 25, 2011 at 9:20 pm
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    I stay on budget by having in mind what I want, do a price comparison online and making sure I have coupons and coupons codes. This holiday I did not go over budget! In fact, I’m waaay below budget! YAY!

  • December 25, 2011 at 7:44 am
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    I made a list, checked it twice and shopped carefully!

  • December 24, 2011 at 9:58 pm
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    only buy things that are on sale

  • December 24, 2011 at 8:40 pm
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    I stuck to my shopping list.

  • December 24, 2011 at 2:02 pm
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    I took advantage of the price match guarantee that walmart offered

    Thank you for hosting this giveaway

    Louis
    pumuckler {at} gmail {dot} com

  • December 24, 2011 at 12:55 pm
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    I don’t buy gifts for adults and I set a small $100-$150 limit on gifts for my son. We make Jesus a birthday cake and we don’t get all stressed about Christmas or spend all year paying for it. It makes people so bitter and I personally will be glad when Christmas is over so people can go back to some semblance of normal. They are soo rude this time of year! It’s very sad.

  • December 24, 2011 at 10:43 am
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    I used a list of websites and prices of gifts I wanted to buy for gifts, checked them frequently and waited for the b best price

  • December 24, 2011 at 6:21 am
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    I made a list and budget for each person rather than a large budget.

  • December 23, 2011 at 3:51 pm
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    find as many coupons and deals as i possibly can<3

  • December 23, 2011 at 3:08 pm
    Permalink

    I plan to watch for sales, clearance items, and coupons.

  • December 23, 2011 at 11:26 am
    Permalink

    Watching my grocery shopping budget, making sure to use coupons and not go crazy spending. Sales will come around again.

  • December 23, 2011 at 9:48 am
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    I keep a spreadsheet to track all my spending

  • December 23, 2011 at 7:09 am
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    not paying full price for anything.

  • December 23, 2011 at 12:22 am
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    i plan everything i wanna buy before i go shopping. no impulse buys!

  • December 22, 2011 at 11:35 pm
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    I always just decide on a certain price ceiling and that’s it, no matter what I don’t go over it!

  • December 22, 2011 at 9:49 pm
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    I make a list of people that I will be buying a gift for, set a dollar amount limit and only shop for items within that price range. Taking the list along with me helps me stay within my budget.

  • December 22, 2011 at 8:33 pm
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    I am staying on budget because I already know what I am going to buy before I leave my house and how much it costs.

  • December 22, 2011 at 7:53 pm
    Permalink

    shopping sales and watching for special deals

  • December 22, 2011 at 7:19 pm
    Permalink

    I shop online through ebates and use coupons!

  • December 22, 2011 at 6:29 pm
    Permalink

    I stayed in my budget by combining sales and coupons, and watching for deals all year.

  • December 22, 2011 at 5:42 pm
    Permalink

    I set a budget and stick to sales/clearance.

  • December 22, 2011 at 3:16 pm
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    I’m going to make sure I don’t do extraneous shopping for MYSELF, and wait for the big sales after Christmas.

  • December 22, 2011 at 2:51 pm
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    I spend time looking and waiting for the sales and use coupons, codes, etc. to get the extra savings.

  • December 22, 2011 at 11:46 am
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    i plan to stay on budget by buying holiday sets, seperating them and then distributing them to my famuily so that they get a little bit of something

  • December 22, 2011 at 9:39 am
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    I just know that i only had so much budget per person to spend this year. I only have one credit card and I did not use it at all, that was my goal.

  • December 22, 2011 at 9:28 am
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    To stay on budget – I make a budget and stick with it.

  • December 22, 2011 at 8:28 am
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    I’m all done shopping. I just bought one present for everyone

  • December 22, 2011 at 7:11 am
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    Thanks for the giveaway, I have alot of Grandchildren Birthday’s coming up in Jan & Feb that this would help with greatly

  • December 22, 2011 at 3:47 am
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    I only take enough cash to cover my intended purchases therefore I won’t be tempted to buy something on impulse.

  • December 22, 2011 at 12:55 am
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    I don’t – lol
    No, really, I will shop sales!

  • December 21, 2011 at 10:43 pm
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    i shopped online

  • December 21, 2011 at 9:24 pm
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    I’ll stop at the Dollar store for a couple of stocking stuffers.
    Thanks for the contest.

  • December 21, 2011 at 9:01 pm
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    Use coupons and specials and try to get buy one get one deals to get two gifts for the price of one.

    amybrown16 (at) insightbb (dot) com

  • December 21, 2011 at 9:01 pm
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    We never veer off budget for Christmas. It’s too easy to get in trouble.

  • December 21, 2011 at 8:48 pm
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    That’s easy… I’m done. All I have left to do if finish making my homemade goodies to give away, and all the ingredients are already in my cupboards.

  • December 21, 2011 at 8:42 pm
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    By researching online and finding the best prices.

  • December 21, 2011 at 8:24 pm
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    By reminding myself what is important and what is not. So many things are wants not needs. It’s okay to have things you want but there has to be a limit when that price is just too high.

  • December 21, 2011 at 8:13 pm
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    We have a limit — put the cash in an envelope, and when it’s gone, it’s gone! :)

  • December 21, 2011 at 7:36 pm
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    plan? to not spend any more… I spent $76 and got $588 worth of awesome christmas presents for my 3 kids :-)

  • December 21, 2011 at 6:50 pm
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    Well, we agreed on a cash limit to what we buy :)

  • December 21, 2011 at 6:25 pm
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    That’s easy, I’m done so I just won’t go to any stores. lol :)

  • December 21, 2011 at 6:17 pm
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    I plan to stay on budget by shopping clearance and discount stores!

  • December 21, 2011 at 5:18 pm
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    I overbudgeted so no problem this year!

  • December 21, 2011 at 4:58 pm
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    i just finished stocking stuffers today and was right on budget

  • December 21, 2011 at 3:31 pm
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    I plan to stay on budget by sticking to the sales, and using coupons!

  • December 21, 2011 at 2:37 pm
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    I stay on budget by using the cash from my Christmas Club account. When the cash is gone, I’m done shopping!
    nrdunningATgmailDOtcom

  • December 21, 2011 at 11:51 am
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    buy on sale item i am done with my Christmas shopping

  • December 20, 2011 at 6:47 pm
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    I stay on budget by keeping my shopping list and budget in a spreadsheet and making a game of trying to spend less than I budgeted. Thanks for the chance to win!
    mrsmchappell at gmail dot com

  • December 20, 2011 at 5:19 pm
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    I don’t know. now it’s getting hard to find good deals

  • December 20, 2011 at 4:02 pm
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    shop sales and only buy items on my list not extras

  • December 20, 2011 at 3:04 pm
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    I set a strict upper ceiling on everybody’s gift and plan to stick to it!

  • December 20, 2011 at 1:54 pm
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    Only buy what I have put on my list to buy–no deviating!!

  • December 20, 2011 at 8:37 am
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    I’m staying within my budget by not going out to shop :0)
    bebemiqui82(at)yahoo(dot)com

  • December 20, 2011 at 4:53 am
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    I stay within budget by making a list of what I need and sticking to it. I also don’t let my husband go shopping this time of year because he goes way overboard on spending.

  • December 20, 2011 at 3:26 am
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    Taking hubby with me shopping keeps me in line!

  • December 20, 2011 at 2:39 am
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    I’m going to do what I’ve been doing, only purchase items that are on sale and only buy within an intended amount for each person. Thanks.
    partymix25(at)hotmail(dot)com

  • December 20, 2011 at 1:07 am
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    I shop on-line and always use discount codes and/or free shipping.
    dolniaks at consolidated dot net

  • December 20, 2011 at 1:06 am
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    I am finished shopping, so I just need to avoid doing a lot of last minute add ons.

  • December 20, 2011 at 12:47 am
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    Use coupons/coupon codes and buy for only who I need to buy for.

  • December 19, 2011 at 11:19 pm
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    We’re through shopping for Christmas — so no budget worries ヅ *Thanks* for the giveaway!

  • December 19, 2011 at 8:18 pm
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    I buy on sale 99.5% of the time, I will do my research to find the best price.

  • December 19, 2011 at 7:57 pm
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    We plan to stay on budget by only shopping with cash.

  • December 19, 2011 at 5:37 pm
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    Well our list is short this year. We plan on using coupons, discount and club cards and shopping online instead of in store shopping.

    dmviola5808@gmail.com

  • December 19, 2011 at 5:34 pm
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    i am buying on ebay

  • December 19, 2011 at 5:28 pm
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    i stayed on budget by shopping year round for the best deals
    brittneydejajason at gmail dot com

  • December 19, 2011 at 3:04 pm
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    I am just buying for the nieces and nephews, the hubster and a couple of friends. Not going overboard with gifts for the whole family. We all pretty much agree on that.

  • December 19, 2011 at 1:09 pm
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    Cant shop this year at all

  • December 19, 2011 at 12:43 pm
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    I am going to stick to what is on my list, and cut down on the amount I had planned to spend.

  • December 19, 2011 at 10:55 am
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    stick to my list

  • December 19, 2011 at 12:54 am
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    I’m going to stay with my list! I’ve done pretty well so far :)

  • December 18, 2011 at 10:31 pm
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    Resist the urge to worry about whether what you’ve already got is “good enough”!

  • December 18, 2011 at 10:24 pm
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    Coupons and only items that are on sale.

  • December 18, 2011 at 10:04 pm
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    We stay on budget by making a list and trying to stick to it. Good luck to everyone!

  • December 18, 2011 at 2:44 pm
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    I’m finished shopping…..

  • December 18, 2011 at 12:57 pm
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    I am done with my Christmas shopping and stayed in budget!!

  • December 18, 2011 at 12:27 pm
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    I’m essentially done shopping. I just need to stay out of the stores to stay on budget.

  • December 18, 2011 at 12:16 am
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    I amde a list months ago, wrote each person, how much I had to spend on them, 3 ideas on gifts for each person within that budget and I stick to it

  • December 17, 2011 at 10:22 pm
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    Budget is GONE LOL BUT I am DONE! :) This $250 will help me recover!

  • December 17, 2011 at 8:54 pm
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    I try to stay on budget by finding and using a lot of the terrific deals and coupons that bloggers let me know about. These blog pages are wonderful ~ thank you!!!!

  • December 17, 2011 at 8:53 pm
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    I stayed in the budget all year for this Christmas because I looked and bought for everyone all during the previous year. :)

  • December 17, 2011 at 7:47 pm
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    Thanks for another great giveaway! I am sticking to my budget by cutting back a bit this year.
    Angela Michels
    lilsweeper76 at yahoo dot com

  • December 17, 2011 at 4:26 pm
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    I made a list and stayed on track

  • December 17, 2011 at 11:45 am
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    I plan to stay on budget by realizing none of really NEED anything. We’re sticking to small practical gifts this year.

  • December 17, 2011 at 8:34 am
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    I have to confess, the only Christmas shopping I do is for my Grandkids and there is only 2 of them so I don’t spend a lot at Christmas.

    gmissycat at yahoo dot com

  • December 17, 2011 at 7:14 am
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    well i only have one thing left to get and im good to go and thats just a pair of earrings for my daughter

  • December 17, 2011 at 5:18 am
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    We are lucky? to stay on budget when coming down to the wire because most of my husband’s family like gift cards so they are easy. No sale price there so no worries. ANd this year, even though I am going WHACKO with hardly anything done and only 7 days left…we had a very preemie grandchild born 7 weeks ago, so we decided to have Christmas 2 weeks late in hopes that he might be home from the NICU. AND we just found out he is going home tommorrow!!!! So, we can maybe hit the best deals about a week after Christmas? Use a 30% off for some things now at a dept store, and get gift cards for most. We just put ourselves in a mind set that our healthy family is our present this year and really, nothing else matters. OH, and I held out to see if any of the blog reading and entering might help our cause. LOL. fat chance!

  • December 17, 2011 at 1:35 am
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    I’m staying on budget with my Christmas shopping searching and finding the best deals, and using coupons/discounts when I can find them. I have been amazed about many great gifts I have purchased that I know my family/friends are going to love.

    cweller75@gmail.com

  • December 16, 2011 at 11:42 pm
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    No credit cards! Debit, cash, or gift cards only. That way I can’t go into debt!

  • December 16, 2011 at 11:18 pm
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    I plan to stay on budget by making all my presents

  • December 16, 2011 at 8:32 pm
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    I plan on hitting those last minute deals that are going on the weekend before Christmas-I’ll be watching the ads closely.
    hendymartin1 at yahoo dot com
    Hendy M

  • December 16, 2011 at 2:57 pm
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    I’m going to stay on budget by making lots of the remaining gifts and by watching for sales

  • December 16, 2011 at 2:13 pm
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    I use a budget which I usually go over, but not this year! YEAH!!

  • December 16, 2011 at 1:20 pm
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    I make a list and stick to it! Also prefer to shop with cash, once I run out that’s it, all done!

  • December 15, 2011 at 9:09 pm
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    Not able to buy anything else so thats easy
    amasfuntime at yahoo.com

  • December 15, 2011 at 9:09 pm
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    I will make a plan and stick to it

  • December 15, 2011 at 9:01 pm
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    make a list for all

  • December 15, 2011 at 8:10 pm
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    Also, I’m entering on the form as Audra Weathers. (I’m used to posting to blogs as my old Google Friend name, not my actual name. I keep forgetting that these new rafflecopter forms don’t have a line to explain that on the main entry when a blog comment is requested. Sorry.) :-)
    -And, I’m a google+ follower as SnowflakeDay Audra W. (didn’t see a line for that info on the form).

    -Audra W.

  • December 15, 2011 at 8:06 pm
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    I’m finished shopping, thank goodness. I think I stayed on track this year by making a list with ideas for each person, as well as the max I was looking to spend for each on my list. I found a lot of deals looking for online coupon codes, finding Etsy specials and comparing items between stores before I made a purchase.

  • December 15, 2011 at 7:45 pm
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    I set a limit per gift when I started shopping and I’ll stay within that limit

  • December 15, 2011 at 6:04 pm
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    I’m only shopping sales and clearance for the rest of my presents.

  • December 15, 2011 at 5:15 pm
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    Most of my shopping is already finished, but I have a strict$50 budget for the kids’ stocking stuffers. I will probably use my phone to price compare and make the most of it.

  • December 15, 2011 at 4:47 pm
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    I watch for sales and enter alot of giveaways!

  • December 15, 2011 at 4:26 pm
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    I am staying on budget by shopping sales and also making some handmade gifts as well!
    Thanks for the opportunity;)

  • December 15, 2011 at 11:45 am
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    I will use cash for purchases instead of plastic.

  • December 15, 2011 at 11:26 am
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    Hopefully to stay on budget I will be able to get the last minute gifts with coupons and sales. I have done good so far but there is always last minute items that come up.

  • December 15, 2011 at 10:53 am
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    i have a certain amount of my strict christmas budget left. i will plan how to spend it on who is left on my list

  • December 15, 2011 at 9:25 am
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    I will only use the cash in my special Christmas Shopping envelope. If I don’t have enough, I don’t buy it.

  • December 15, 2011 at 9:07 am
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    make a list and don’t stray from it!

  • December 15, 2011 at 9:04 am
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    We have a set number of gifts and know exactly what we are going to buy. There will not be any purchases beyond what we have set. With all the doctor bills from our new baby, we don’t have a choice! And NO credit cards

  • December 15, 2011 at 7:38 am
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    I plan to stay on budget by making sure that the last couple of presents I need to buy are at a great price and very affordable.

  • December 15, 2011 at 5:23 am
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    easy to stay on budget this year- lost my job when my company closed so everyone knows i am not buying gifts. i will pick up a few things for my mother- i have allocated $100 for that and then i am done. if you can’t afford to buy it- don’t charge it. great way to stay on budget :)

  • December 15, 2011 at 4:26 am
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    My plan is to be extremely anal about what I buy. I have a well thought out list and I know exactly where to go to get it. I don’t plan on buying anything that is not on my list.

  • December 15, 2011 at 1:03 am
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    I will set limits and stick to my list.

  • December 15, 2011 at 12:45 am
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    With 9 of us in our immediate family, not to mention the acres and acres of extended family we have, we really have to stick to a budget. One thing we have done the last several years is, my siblings and I will all put an agreed upon amount on a gift card for one large gift for my parents. This helps EVERYONE, and Mom and Dad still get something great. For the rest of us siblings, we draw names each year, so we only have one extended family member to shop for, and their spouse. Everyone gets a gift, no one spends more than $20.

  • December 14, 2011 at 11:56 pm
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    I am staying on budget by scoping out the best sales!

  • December 14, 2011 at 10:21 pm
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    I plan to only buy what is on my list.

  • December 14, 2011 at 9:43 pm
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    I will stay on budget by using a list.

  • December 14, 2011 at 9:18 pm
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    It doesn’t matter if you have one, two, or more dependents. You will still get the same amount of dependent social security. For example, if you get $800 per month, you get $400 split between your dependents. So, instead of getting two $200 checks, you would get one $400 check.

  • December 14, 2011 at 9:16 pm
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    I plan to stay on budget by looking online and store ads to see where the best deal is. I will check online coupon codes too

  • December 14, 2011 at 9:12 pm
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    well i had 2 dependant children until this last year when she moved out, now there is only one 14

  • December 14, 2011 at 9:11 pm
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    We get names from the angel tree and purchased clothes and toys for them.
    We want to make sure we can help some children have a good Christmas.
    We have a certain amount we spent on each child, I purchased items on sale,use coupons
    and rewards. We stay within our budget

  • December 14, 2011 at 9:01 pm
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    If I remember right, they base the amount of the disability you receive from your salary from the last ten years you worked. I also think the amount of retro disability you get once approved is from the date your first application is received. Also, in addition to your monthly social security, you also receive check for each of your dependent children adding up to 50% of your disability to use for their care and well-being after you apply for them.

  • December 14, 2011 at 8:54 pm
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    do u buy or have someone buy for u?

  • December 14, 2011 at 8:51 pm
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    sorry i didnt know how to work this! anyway, its steffiessweetsinsations(at)gmail(dot)com

  • December 14, 2011 at 8:47 pm
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    I will predetermine how much I want to spend on every individual and not deviate from the plan.

  • December 14, 2011 at 8:47 pm
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    will use email me so i can find out more about your approval? steffiessweetsinsations(at)gmail(dot)cin

  • December 14, 2011 at 8:47 pm
    Permalink

    will use email me so i can find out more about your approval? steffiessweetsinsations(at)gmail(dot)cin

  • December 14, 2011 at 8:47 pm
    Permalink

    will use email me so i can find out more about your approval? steffiessweetsinsations(at)gmail(dot)cin

  • December 14, 2011 at 8:47 pm
    Permalink

    will use email me so i can find out more about your approval? steffiessweetsinsations(at)gmail(dot)cin

  • December 14, 2011 at 8:47 pm
    Permalink

    will use email me so i can find out more about your approval? steffiessweetsinsations(at)gmail(dot)cin

  • December 14, 2011 at 8:43 pm
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    im so glad for you! i was a nurse, so my disability isnt much but it would pay the house payment and electric at least. im hoping we did everything we needed to this time, my biggest prob is the time between when i last worked and when i filed. something about credits? i had to hire an atty i had no clue. hopefully this next wk will bring good news. how much back did they credit u? mine should be around 28 months.

  • December 14, 2011 at 8:34 pm
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    Buying on clearance

  • December 14, 2011 at 8:30 pm
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    I wish you the best. I was denied twice upon applying on my own, but I did not have to appeal when I had an attorney. I also paid over $300 for a prognosis from my neurologist to show that I’m not able physically to hold a job and that my condition would worsen at some point in my life. My approval for Social Security Disability was approved right at the hearing.

  • December 14, 2011 at 8:25 pm
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    hi denise, yes, i have an atty, and we had my hearing one month ago, the judge said he would have the decision in 45 days. so any day now, i should hear something. even the job assessor said there were no jobs for me. i would certainly feel better knowing i had something coming in. i worked as a nurse for 15yrs before my injury. my atty says we can file an appeal if we dont win this time. i really hope we get it this time tho, i really desperately need it.

  • December 14, 2011 at 8:11 pm
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    I’m also disabled and on disability. I learned early on when I applied for disability that Social Security would just keep denying it. The only way you can get disability is to get yourself a disability lawyer. They work on contingency, so they don’t get paid unless they win for you. Plus, once you are approved, Social Security will pay all the back retroactive payments owed you.

  • December 14, 2011 at 8:07 pm
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    We don’t really have any Christmas shopping to do. Other than a few small things for our children, we try to focus on the celebrating of Christmas and giving to those in need rather than focusing on getting presents.

  • December 14, 2011 at 7:46 pm
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    I use coupon and shop on line, save gas money. don’t buy the stuff that I don’t need it . I also compare the price before I place order

  • December 14, 2011 at 7:12 pm
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    I plan to follow savings blogs to see where the deals are.

  • December 14, 2011 at 6:51 pm
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    I will strictly follow the budget I set up when deciding what to buy for all the family

  • December 14, 2011 at 6:38 pm
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    im disabled mom of 3 girls, my husband recently left us, and i am still fighting for my disability. i have no bank acct, and no credit cards. i have no income. i won $325 in past giveaways, so that is what i have been using, utilizing all the sales and coupons, and giveaways. i dont have a choice but to stay on budget. i have been going to a local food bank once a month, and will go again next wk before christmas, so i can have a nice christmas dinner. its been the roughest holiday season i have ever gone thru, but we will make it, and it will get better. thanks for the opportunity, we could really use this money.

  • December 14, 2011 at 6:35 pm
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    watching for online deals and store clearance
    dollhousecreation(at)gmail(dot)com

  • December 14, 2011 at 5:59 pm
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    Look all year round for good deals and sales!

  • December 14, 2011 at 5:39 pm
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    I stay on budget by buying things that are on sale.

  • December 14, 2011 at 4:41 pm
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    I subscribe via RSS – Google Reader – laura.a.love07 at gmail dot com

  • December 14, 2011 at 4:39 pm
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    I plan to stay on budget with the last of my Christmas shopping by taking out the amount I want to spend in cash, and then only purchasing things with that cash. That way I don’t go over budget.

  • December 14, 2011 at 3:55 pm
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    I make a list of people I buy gifts for and decide how much I can afford. I go within that range and shop for the best deals.

  • December 14, 2011 at 3:53 pm
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    E-MAIL SUBSCRIBER

  • December 14, 2011 at 3:52 pm
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    I GIVE GC 12-14-11

  • December 14, 2011 at 3:08 pm
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    I’m staying on budget my making a list to each person and keeping to it.

    abfantom at yahoo dot com

  • December 14, 2011 at 3:07 pm
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    I’m done with my Christmas shopping and I stayed on budget!

  • December 14, 2011 at 1:51 pm
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    I make a list and a budget and I stick to it.
    Thanks for the chance.
    mogrill12@gmail.com

  • December 14, 2011 at 1:40 pm
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    I give what I can and then leave an IOU under the tree for an expensive item that I can purchase on sale for after the holidays.

  • December 14, 2011 at 1:15 pm
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    i plan on only getting what’s on my list and looking for sales

  • December 14, 2011 at 1:07 pm
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    I always buy things on sale and I use Swagbucks to earn points which I use for Amazon cash.

  • December 14, 2011 at 12:58 pm
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    I plan on staying on budget for xmas by writing a list before i go to the stores instead of impulse shopping.
    jamie villari

  • December 14, 2011 at 12:56 pm
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    I took out cash so I couldn’t spend more than I had.

  • December 14, 2011 at 12:49 pm
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    Getting what is on my list

  • December 14, 2011 at 12:18 pm
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    I plan on trying to stick to what’s on the list only. It’s a bit difficult with two kids, but I’m going to try!

  • December 14, 2011 at 12:11 pm
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    I’m shopping for only a few people this year and I plan on waiting until the last possible minute to shop for them.

  • December 14, 2011 at 11:59 am
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    I’m shopping with cash. When it’s gone, it’s gone.

  • December 14, 2011 at 11:55 am
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    I will not deviate from the gift list. No never ever.

  • December 14, 2011 at 11:36 am
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    I am keeping control of my money by watching sales and only buying what is on my list

  • December 14, 2011 at 10:20 am
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    I plan to stick to my budget by sticking to my original shopping list. It’s last minute impulse gifts that have been the bane of many a budget – but not mine!

  • December 14, 2011 at 9:55 am
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    I plan on staying in budget by not spending any more

  • December 14, 2011 at 9:18 am
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    finish early, use cash. Sure, there are things I would like to get, bu I can’t afford to and I won’t use my credit card.

  • December 14, 2011 at 8:26 am
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    look for good sales

  • December 14, 2011 at 7:17 am
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    I am finished shopping and I stayed on budget by sticking to a list and using cash only.

  • December 14, 2011 at 7:03 am
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    I am going to pay cash.

  • December 14, 2011 at 6:18 am
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    Well, to stay on budget I have a list of what’s left to buy and how much I have left to spend. I will try to stay within that range by not buying any extras.

  • December 14, 2011 at 5:15 am
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    just go and find cheap gifts since money is low

  • December 14, 2011 at 1:58 am
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    I did the rest of my shopping online with the last minute sales at major retailers. We plan on doing some “extra” christmas shopping at the outlets on the way down to see my parents for Christmas… Can’t wait to see all the deals there!

  • December 14, 2011 at 1:51 am
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    few people left on my list and budget amount. waiting for some good sales!!

  • December 14, 2011 at 1:47 am
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    I plan to stay on budget by paying cash for everything. No more piling things in the cart just because. Get what I can afford with the cash in my pocket only.

  • December 14, 2011 at 12:06 am
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    search for clearance!

  • December 13, 2011 at 11:59 pm
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    I plan to set a budget, limit the amount spend on each person and shop around for the best deals

    cshell090869@aol.com

  • December 13, 2011 at 11:31 pm
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    I’ll stay on budget because we are totally through with shopping for the year, and we actually managed to do a little better than we had planned due to some timely ads, and a real find on some gently uses guitars.

  • December 13, 2011 at 11:25 pm
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    I try to use only cash and shop sales along with any store coupons

  • December 13, 2011 at 11:18 pm
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    I try to keep a mental list of what I need to buy online or at stores. I try not to go over budget, which can be hard at times. Thanks Amanda!

  • December 13, 2011 at 10:57 pm
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    love the giveaways!

  • December 13, 2011 at 10:47 pm
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    I plan to stay on budget with the last of my purchases by thinking about my husband when I am deciding what to get. He works overtime for the money that we have so I need to place a greater value on it and not waste it.

  • December 13, 2011 at 10:26 pm
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    I follow on Google + as Holly Swint (there is no extra info box for this info)

  • December 13, 2011 at 10:24 pm
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    I have had to spend almost nothing on Christmas gifts this year because I am gifting the prizes I have won all year in giveaways!

  • December 13, 2011 at 10:22 pm
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    I stick to cash – can’t spend what I don’t have!

  • December 13, 2011 at 10:20 pm
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    Honestly, I didn’t have money enough to set a budget this or last year. I entered many giveaways and hoped to win. I won enough to give some gifts.

  • December 13, 2011 at 10:09 pm
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    Using my coupons and waiting until a few days before Christmas when they mark things down, especially chocolates.

  • December 13, 2011 at 9:54 pm
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    I plan to stay on budget by making list and sticking to it.

  • December 13, 2011 at 9:45 pm
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    I plan on staying on budget by making my husband buy the rest of the gifts from his bank account.

  • December 13, 2011 at 9:44 pm
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    I just quit my job to go back to school… everyone is getting baked goods.

  • December 13, 2011 at 9:31 pm
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    I blew the budget a long time ago… I guess I’m SOL

  • December 13, 2011 at 9:24 pm
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    I have a spreadsheet with my budget that I’m following very carefully.

  • December 13, 2011 at 9:09 pm
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    I plan to buy at BOGO and special deals!

  • December 13, 2011 at 9:05 pm
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    I am already over budget and I am not done…ahhh

  • December 13, 2011 at 9:00 pm
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    Our Christmas was totally funded by giveaways and reward programs this year. Keep entering, I put in 16 hour days entering some times.

  • December 13, 2011 at 8:55 pm
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    I plan to only buy an item on sale and only buy what is on my list

  • December 13, 2011 at 8:46 pm
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    I’m staying on budget with my final gifts by sticking to a strict spending limit with my friends and relatives, scouring the net and circulars for great deals, and avoiding that constant temptation to buy myself something anytime I get someone else a gift. :)

  • December 13, 2011 at 8:42 pm
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    Makin a list and checking it twice and sticking to it!

  • December 13, 2011 at 8:30 pm
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    I stick to my coupons, sales and sweepstakes!

  • December 13, 2011 at 8:21 pm
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    Our family has set a dollar amount limit this year and it’s made the shopping a little more challenging but a lot less stressful! :)

  • December 13, 2011 at 7:57 pm
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    since being laid off there is no budget for presents so it isnt too difficult to stick to natta.

  • December 13, 2011 at 7:44 pm
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    I try to find the best prices possible, and do not spend more than I have allowed.

  • December 13, 2011 at 7:42 pm
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    Following our budget is easye we don’t use credit cards and we pay cash for anything besides the bills nupa123atgmaildotcom

  • December 13, 2011 at 7:42 pm
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    i’m only buying what i planned to buy and nothing extra

  • December 13, 2011 at 7:16 pm
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    Entering giveaways like this helps me stretch my budget! Thanks!

  • December 13, 2011 at 6:59 pm
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    I always shop from a list and pre-plan where I’m shopping. So there are not usually any surprises.

  • December 13, 2011 at 6:51 pm
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    I’m paying by cash and only cash. I can’t spend more than that.

  • December 13, 2011 at 6:49 pm
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    What’s a budget? :) I tried the saying, “let’s just focus on the kids this year.” My husband’s response…he sends me an Amazon wish list. AHHHH! I need this gift card to help with all the extra costs this year.

  • December 13, 2011 at 6:45 pm
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    i stay on budget by being frugal and stashing giveaway wins thruthe year

  • December 13, 2011 at 6:44 pm
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    I stay on budget by being frugal and putting away giveaway wins thru the year

  • December 13, 2011 at 6:44 pm
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    I stay on budget by being frugal and putting away giveaway wins thru the year

  • December 13, 2011 at 6:42 pm
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    Well I do have much to do and I have paid cash all season to keep in budget.

  • December 13, 2011 at 6:28 pm
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    only carry cash! and make a list of ideas of gifts so you have some idea what you wanna buy :)

  • December 13, 2011 at 6:27 pm
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    The only way to do that is to not buy for everyone and limit gifts to children.

  • December 13, 2011 at 6:23 pm
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    I set a budget of what i was going to spend (including the kids) & bought gifts accordingly. It helped me to look at what was really *needed*

  • December 13, 2011 at 5:56 pm
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    I’ve a list and I will stick to it.

  • December 13, 2011 at 5:50 pm
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    I am done with my shipping but when I try to stick to a budget I usually make a list (and check it twice:) and I only pay cash for items no credit cards that way I can physically keep track of everything I’ve spent so I don’t over spend…thank you!
    ashleygatewood1(AT)gmail.com

  • December 13, 2011 at 5:01 pm
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    I’m almost finished, so if I stick with what’s left on my list I should be fine.

  • December 13, 2011 at 4:50 pm
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    making a list of what I need to buy and sticking to it!

  • December 13, 2011 at 4:08 pm
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    I have a list for each person I need to buy for and I stay within the budget set for each person.
    I also look for sales both in the newspaper and online and compare prices.

  • December 13, 2011 at 3:55 pm
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    i do it y sticking to my list

  • December 13, 2011 at 3:40 pm
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    We are making some of the gifts we are giving away and sticking to what we planned on getting for our kids and not getting anything else extra, so that we stay within our budget.

  • December 13, 2011 at 3:29 pm
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    I only buy with cash and try to buy on sale/with coupons whenever possible.

  • December 13, 2011 at 3:27 pm
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    I plan on staying within budget is to keep a list and look for relevant coupons

  • December 13, 2011 at 3:04 pm
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    The last few gifts I plan on making with stuff I have or only need a few things for..

  • December 13, 2011 at 2:57 pm
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    I’ve been entering lots of giveaways to supplement for my daughter’s Christmas (and future birthdays/Christmases!!) :D

  • December 13, 2011 at 2:52 pm
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    I actually might have to cut out some small things to stay on budget and get into those last sales!

  • December 13, 2011 at 2:52 pm
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    I have been staying on budget by buying everything on sale or clearance, and making some gifts!

  • December 13, 2011 at 2:49 pm
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    I plan on saving by making many of my holiday gifts for people

  • December 13, 2011 at 2:23 pm
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    I’ve been staying on budget by shopping clearance all year long, and always lookign for coupons to match w/ sales

  • December 13, 2011 at 2:04 pm
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    I’m going to stop looking at stuff online – it only entices me to buy more!

  • December 13, 2011 at 2:01 pm
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    I try and find the best deals I can by shopping online. My fiance is working overtime to ensure that we can get more Christmas shopping done before the holidays.

    klshrrs at gmail dot com

  • December 13, 2011 at 1:38 pm
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    stay away from the mall :)

  • December 13, 2011 at 1:30 pm
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    In order to stay on budget – I’ve been scouring the internet for the best possible prices. I’ve also been keeping track of all of my purchases and making sure items aren’t being marked down further… if I do see them cheaper I try to get a price adjustment or I will return the higher priced item and repurchase the lower priced item. I’ve seem some really great deals pop up on lots of things I would like to have – but I tell myself it’s not worth it to buy something I truly can’t afford right now AND especially if it’s not an immediate need!

  • December 13, 2011 at 1:10 pm
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    I just try to keep my eye out for any deals, sales and use coupons.

  • December 13, 2011 at 12:55 pm
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    i am all done. I stay on budget by putting away deals I find throughout the year. I also love consignment shops and yard sales. Now the only hard part is reminding myself that I am done, because I keep seeing stuff that would be great for the family. However I can cheat a little, my daughter’s birthday is in January. So even if I do not need it for Christmas I will need it for her birthday.

  • December 13, 2011 at 12:53 pm
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    My budget this year is just to be able to pay the bills. In order for me to stay on budget, I just won’t be buying Christmas presents. Bills come first this year.

  • December 13, 2011 at 12:52 pm
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    I stay on budget by doing most of this year’s Christmas shopping in the Spring and Summer during sales. The only gift I have left to get is a Secret Santa gift for under $25.00.

  • December 13, 2011 at 12:45 pm
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    budget, i have to follow a budget? LOL, i just decide what everyone is getting before hand and do everyhting i can not to deviate from the list. Even if i find a great deal on something
    corinne.soto517(at)gmail.com

  • December 13, 2011 at 12:42 pm
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    i will cut lots of coupons and stay away from the mall, because that’s where i spend too much money!

  • December 13, 2011 at 12:22 pm
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    We plan on staying on a budget by setting a price for each of our girls and sticking to a list!Thanks for the giveaway!This would help us a lot!

  • December 13, 2011 at 12:16 pm
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    i’ve been fairly good about sticking to my list so if i can keep that up i should be okay for the next week!

  • December 13, 2011 at 12:13 pm
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    Honestly I’m on a super, super tight budget through the end of the year and into 2012, so I’ll be making the few gifts I have left handcrafted.

  • December 13, 2011 at 12:10 pm
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    I will stay on budget by resisting the urges to buy more “stuff” for my kids!

  • December 13, 2011 at 12:03 pm
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    i plan on staying on budget because i declare i am finished shopping and no impulse buys!!

  • December 13, 2011 at 11:51 am
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    This is the first year I’ve bought Christmas gifts throughout the year – and stuck to my plan – normally I always go crazy — so I only have a few things left – and I’ve al;ready planned those purchases out!

  • December 13, 2011 at 11:48 am
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    With the cash I have left that i allotted for Christmas!

  • December 13, 2011 at 11:30 am
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    I plan to stay on budget by no impulse buying. :)

  • December 13, 2011 at 11:30 am
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    I have made my list of what I need to get, checked prices online, and have written down where I need to go to get the best prices. (I’m hoping this helps this year!)

  • December 13, 2011 at 11:15 am
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    I started months ago using coupons and stocking up on deals to make gift baskets for my family.

  • December 13, 2011 at 10:33 am
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    I plan to go for sales mainly, that helps a lot.

  • December 13, 2011 at 10:31 am
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    I’ll be utilizing online discounts and sales and ordering with a debit card, rather than a credit card so that I cna’t “accidentally” go over budget ;)

  • December 13, 2011 at 10:29 am
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    We are limiting ourselves to one gift each, plus a couple gift. But when it comes to our one and only grandchild – all bets are off!

  • December 13, 2011 at 10:24 am
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    Rafflecopter wont let me type the email that I subscribe with…its the same one as on this form. Thank you!

  • December 13, 2011 at 10:21 am
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    By only using cash.

  • December 13, 2011 at 10:21 am
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    I am done Christmas shopping. This was the first year, we actually stuck to our budget and paid cash for everything. I owe it all to wonderful giveaways like this one! Thank you so much. Now, it’s time to start on Birthdays…

  • December 13, 2011 at 10:19 am
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    sales, coupons and thrift stores!

  • December 13, 2011 at 10:12 am
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    The entry where it says enter your twitter name would not allow me to type my twitter name it is @mrsshaniethia and the one for my email address wouldn’t let me type either so my email address it katgilbert81@gmail.com

  • December 13, 2011 at 10:00 am
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    I am sad to say but for the past few years my husband and I have been unable to get our children anything for christmas. Money has been so tight. My kids have been great about it cause they know when we are able to we will buy them something. They aren’t kids that ask for a lot so if I were to win this money I would be extremely happy. I just want to be able to buy them something within reason.

  • December 13, 2011 at 9:48 am
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    Hiya! :) And well, I only have two people to shop for, did that last month (or I guess it’s two months ago now), and cards at the Dollar Store.

    Lois

  • December 13, 2011 at 9:48 am
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    I plan to stay on budget this holiday by shopping online sales and checking for promo codes!

  • December 13, 2011 at 9:43 am
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    I watch sales early on and only purchase the items on sale.

  • December 13, 2011 at 9:41 am
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    I’ve been “hording” any gift cards I’ve won throughout the year and I have a few left so that’s how I’ll budget my last few gifts this year. Thanks for this opportunity!
    reducefootprints at gmail dot com

  • December 13, 2011 at 9:41 am
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    Stick with the list that we made/decided of how much to spend on each person, resist impulse buy

  • December 13, 2011 at 9:33 am
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    I plan to stay on budget by giving more home made gifts this year.

  • December 13, 2011 at 9:20 am
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    Most of my Christmas shopping is done but I still have a couple of last minute items to purchase. My max spending amount for these items is $50 so I plan on looking around for the best deals before I buy.

  • December 13, 2011 at 9:15 am
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    I plan to look for the best deals, use coupons whenever possible and also do some homemade gifts (typically cookies & candy).

  • December 13, 2011 at 9:13 am
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    I’m entering the rafflecopter with my FB username Mary Happymommy.

    I plan to use coupons and shop cybersales.

  • December 13, 2011 at 8:50 am
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    Unfortunately I was laid off this year so I will not be giving out many gifts, if any.

  • December 13, 2011 at 8:08 am
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    going to stick to a list.

  • December 13, 2011 at 7:26 am
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    I plan on staying on budget by comparison shopping and not buying what I don’t need. So far I have stayed on budget for all of my shopping and only have a few more gifts to buy.

  • December 13, 2011 at 7:12 am
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    I plan on making a list, sticking to it and shopping for deals on those items.

  • December 13, 2011 at 6:50 am
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    we started exchanging names a few years back, now that’s all that we get other than for our children and our spouses. Most of my gifts have been bought from craigslist if you can believe that!

  • December 13, 2011 at 3:43 am
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    I use the deal sites like ebates, coupons, and sales to stay in budget.

  • December 13, 2011 at 1:57 am
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    I look for deals, coupons and clearance. I always stick to a budget and so far have never gone over.

  • December 13, 2011 at 1:31 am
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    I subscribe with pica_princess_88@yahoo.com
    Follow on twitter @ChelsR88
    It wouldn’t let me type them in the form for some reason

  • December 13, 2011 at 1:15 am
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    We plan to keep sticking to our list!

  • December 13, 2011 at 1:09 am
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    I am making most of my gifts and I purchased a lot of gifts during summer sales! I just have two more to get!

  • December 13, 2011 at 12:57 am
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    i plan to stay on budget by making gift by hand!!

  • December 13, 2011 at 12:48 am
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    I watch for sales all yet long and spread out the spending.

  • December 13, 2011 at 12:46 am
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    I stay on budget by making a list in the summer & start buying early, whenever I see a sale.

  • December 13, 2011 at 12:46 am
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    I price compare and look for news paper and online coupons. I also look for free shipping codes when I order online. I never buy on impulse. I really do my homework before I buy!
    jacqgrif@yahoo.com
    Thank You!!

  • December 13, 2011 at 12:41 am
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    Im not working right now, so this would help me incredibly. So that being said, if I win the card, my budget would be the face value of the card.

  • December 13, 2011 at 12:36 am
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    I have completed my holiday shopping, now if i can stay on budget with the Christmas meal, all will be well. I shopped very far in advance and budgeted a certain amount per month to get the gifts for Christmas paid for, and it worked out well.

  • December 13, 2011 at 12:33 am
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    I plan to stay on budget by comparison shopping and only using cash to pay. When I am out of cash then it is time to go home.
    pica_princess_88@yahoo.com

  • December 13, 2011 at 12:33 am
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    I have a price set for each person on my list.

  • December 13, 2011 at 12:14 am
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    Thankfully my Christmas shopping is almost done, but I’m doing my best to look around for the best deals for the few items remaining on my shopping list. It’s a bit trickier when I remember that I need to have all the gifts in my hands by Christmas.

  • December 13, 2011 at 12:14 am
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    I’m on budget and finished shopping, so I guess my task will be to not buy anything else!

  • December 13, 2011 at 12:05 am
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    First I set a budget. Then I wrote down my list. I then searched the internet and stores to see who offered the best deal. Before making the purchase I made sure it was the best deal. and so far I’m under budget!

  • December 13, 2011 at 12:03 am
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    Well I have everyone’s gift already … So I guess the trick for me is not get any extras, I had a budget and used it all and I’m done but occasionally I see a great deal and I’m tempted to go for it.

  • December 13, 2011 at 12:01 am
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    I make a list check prices online and in the store circulars to find the best price. Then and only then do I go shopping. If I didn’t make a list I’d be buying everything :P

  • December 12, 2011 at 11:59 pm
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    I buy a lot all through the year at sales, etc. This helps to save money and makes Christmas time a lot less stressful.

  • December 12, 2011 at 11:55 pm
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    I plan on staying on budget by not buying anything else. I started my shopping early so I wouldnt be in a pinch! The rest of the money this month goes to Lovely Bills! Always fun right ?? Thanks for the chance of winning!

  • December 12, 2011 at 11:54 pm
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    I am really checking sales and using coupons this year. It has saved me money!

  • December 12, 2011 at 11:54 pm
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    well that won’t be hard I’m out of money so I’m done. lol

  • December 12, 2011 at 11:46 pm
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    I will check online for prices.

  • December 12, 2011 at 11:44 pm
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    I am going to stay within budget for Christmas gifts buy only purchasing items that are on sale, plus that also offer additional gift cards etc

  • December 12, 2011 at 11:38 pm
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    I watch facebook posts and keep searching for bargains posted by the pages I am “subscribed to” or “like”. Most of my shopping has been done that way.

  • December 12, 2011 at 11:37 pm
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    My fiance and I went to Black Friday @ Walmart to get the good deals. I don’t go for electronics, I only go for the clothes and toys for my kids. I circle what I’m gonna get in the ads, look for coupons and sales.

  • December 12, 2011 at 11:34 pm
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    I sit down with the sale ads and make a list that fits my budget.

  • December 12, 2011 at 11:28 pm
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    I start shopping early but for the last minute gifts I set a limit on the amount of money to spend on each person and look for coupons & deals to make the amount stretch even further.

  • December 12, 2011 at 11:27 pm
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    I plan to stay on budget by doing the last of my shopping using groupons or living social deals.

  • December 12, 2011 at 11:27 pm
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    Extremely limited income this year so my budget haas been extremely little. So I think with the cards in my hand I will be right on target. Wish I could say differently

  • December 12, 2011 at 11:26 pm
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    I just have a few more gifts to buy, but I keep watch online sales to see if I can pick up items at a great price.

  • December 12, 2011 at 11:26 pm
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    This year we chose names for gifts, so instead of having to buy one for 10 people, we only have to buy for one. Great idea for families!

  • December 12, 2011 at 11:24 pm
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    I have a price limit set for every person. I have to. We have 19 nephews and nieces lol.

  • December 12, 2011 at 11:24 pm
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    Well, I’m going to have to stay on budget, because I only have a little to spend. The whole family has decided only presents for the wee ones. So, I’ll be getting those last minute presents the night before christmas, that’s payday! And, enjoying the time with the family. Thanks so much for the chance!

  • December 12, 2011 at 11:23 pm
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    I made a lot of my gifts and then shopped all of the sales (even went out on Black Friday while 36 weeks pregnant!).

  • December 12, 2011 at 11:22 pm
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    I usually buy good deals throughout the year so that i dont end up spending alot of money at the last minute :)

  • December 12, 2011 at 11:17 pm
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    well we have to stay on budget for christmas.at my job i was working 70 hour weeks and month and half before christmas (when i had plan on doing my shopping with all the sales) they cut our hours to 40 with no over time.so now we are really tight with christmas.luckily i had bought a few gifts through out the past few months..thank you for the chance to win this!!

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