December 26, 2025

Greetings!

The days after Christmas are the perfect time to reset your budget and start the new year off on the right foot.

Instead of rushing into post-holiday sales, take inventory of what you already have. Knowing what you have helps avoid buying duplicates that you really don't need. Wrapping supplies, decorations, and gift bags can all be saved and reused, cutting down on next year's expenses before they even being.

After Christmas isn't the end of savings...it's actually the best place to start.

Kris

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Handy Hint: Freeze Holiday Leftovers

Typically after a big holiday we are left with more food than we can possibly eat. Instead of throwing them out, put your freezer to work. Many holiday favorites are freezer friendly.

Cookies, bread, meats, casseroles all freeze great if they are wrapped properly. Portion them into meal-sized containers or freezer bags so you only have to thaw what you need. You'll have quick, ready-made meals on a busy night and it helps stretch your grocery budget in the weeks ahead. (And don't forget to label everything with a date.)

Thrifty Tip: Return and Exchange Quickly

Once the holidays are over, unused gifts can turn into wasted money. Many stores shorten their return window after Christmas, so items lose their full value on returns.

Returning or exchanging items right away keeps their value intact and give you the flexibility to choose something you will actually use. Even store credits are better than holding on to something that will never leave your closet.

Thrifty Tip: Reuse Holiday Packaging to Organize

Before you throw out those holiday boxes, jars, and containers consider putting them to good use. Many of these items are sturdy, well-sized, and perfect for organizing without spending a penny.

Glass jars and plastic containers are perfect for holding small items like ornaments, batteries, nails, or even craft supplies.

Got a tip of your own, Handy or Thrifty? Reply back to me, I love reading your tips and ideas!