The gift-giving season is finally here. However, choosing what to purchase for everyone on your list can be a pretty difficult task. If you’re on a budget and you have some hard customers to shop for, it could make the holiday season harder than ever. One great thing to concentrate on is a person’s needs though. If you have someone on your list that always seems to be on the edge, then you might want to consider some gifts to help with relaxation. These ten ideas should help you stick to your budget while allowing you to find a great gift that could actually improve someone’s life. So, this year, make the gift-giving season a little easier by adding some of these items to your list.

1. DIY Bath Bomb Set
Bath bombs have exploded into popularity lately, which is great if you’re looking for a gift for anyone feeling a bit stressed. You can purchase bath bombs in many stores, now, but if you really want to make the gift better then you might look at making the items yourself. You can make DIY bath bombs with only a few ingredients, so you won’t have to spend a bundle on them. This will also allow you to customize the bath bombs to suit each individual person you are gifting to. You can even make a bulk batch and dress them up in a pretty basket for the holidays. If you’re making bath bombs for kids, then you can easily slip tiny toys inside of them for an extra treat. Of course, if you don’t have the time, you might consider purchasing a DIY kit or making your own DIY kit as a gift. This will turn the gift into a craft too, which can definitely help with relaxation.

2. Salt Lamp
A lot of people swear by salt lamps, while others don’t feel a difference in the atmosphere when they are on. No matter who you give a salt lamp too, you can’t deny that they do look pretty cool. They even have colorful salt lamps now, which are perfect for anyone that loves unique things. Of course, if you do have someone on your list that believes in the healing properties of these lamps, then they’re bound to get a lot out of the lamp. The salt lamp can help reduce anxiety while bringing positive vibes to the home. They can also help put moisture from the air during humid seasons. So, if you have someone that loves cool décor, then a salt lamp might be the perfect relaxing gift for them.

3. Sleep Mask
Stress and sleep usually don’t go hand in hand, which is why a sleep mask is a great gift for anyone that needs some extra time to relax. A sleep mask helps to block out light, which will allow anyone needing a couple of extra hours of sleep to find them. Sleep masks can be purchased almost anywhere now, too. So, you won’t be shy of choices when it comes to picking one for everyone on your list. However, if you’re looking to save money or you want a specific look then you’ll be pleased to know DIY sleep masks aren’t hard to make. This should allow you to exercise some creativity, while also ensuring you have some fun and save money on your gifts.

4. Oil Diffuser
Essential oils are another popular option when it comes to relaxing and reducing stress from the day. So, you might consider an oil diffuser as a holiday gift. There are numerous styles of oil diffusers on the market too, which again allows you to customize the gift to suit the person receiving it. You might also be able to find a diffuser that comes with a few essential oils, which can make your gift even better. Luckily, around the holiday season, there are usually tons of deals on these items because they are so trendy. So, make sure you shop around so you can find a few good options for the people in your life that need to relax. You might also consider adding a book or even just a list of oils that will allow you to share the message about oils designed to improve relaxation and stress reduction.

5. Weighted Blanket
Another major gift to check out is the weighted blanket. These blankets are said to help reduce anxiety and depression while also allowing you to feel more comfortable. Unfortunately, weighted blankets tend to be very expensive throughout the year with some costing over $100 for a smaller option. Luckily, there have been many amazing deals on these blankets lately, and the prices will probably only go down when it comes to Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales. Currently, you can find a weighted blanket for only $20 at Walmart, which is a steal of a deal. Many retailers are also offering weighted blankets for kids too, which will definitely help nervous sleepers get to bed. So, if you know someone facing anxiety and stress, this gift can make a huge difference at a reasonable price.

6. Foot Bath
Without a doubt, a nice footbath on a stressful day can make life seem a little better. Plus, it can greatly improve your health and so much more. That is why a footbath is a great option if you’re looking for the perfect gift for someone. Luckily, you can shop for a footbath based on your budget too, so you don’t have to worry about this gift idea sending you over budget. There are inflatable footbaths for those living in a smaller space and footbaths designed for people that love all the bells and whistles. If you save a lot of money on the footbath, you might even consider getting some relaxing Epsom salts and more to help take the gift to the next level.

7. Back Massager
Stress can resonate in the body too, which is why many people love to go get a back massage when they have the time and money. However, getting a back massage can actually be incredibly expensive, so you might not go this route when looking for a gift. However, a back massager can be found in a wide range of prices, which makes it a great gift even if you’re on a budget. There are many back massagers on the market now, too. You can find awesome chairs that heat and vibrate, or simple manual massagers designed to work out the tension. You can also purchase based on the specific troubled area, which makes it an even more personal gift.

8. Spa Set
Another fun idea is to make your own spa set. This is a great option if you know someone that would love to make time to go to the spa but doesn’t actually have the money or time to do so. You can make spa sets in all shapes and sizes too, which will definitely come in handy when you customize your gifts. If you want to go the DIY option then add in bath bombs, facial masks, lip glosses and more. These items can all be made at home without costing you a fortune. You can also purchase beauty supplies in bulk and divvy them up between spa sets. This will definitely allow you to make a gift that is going to have everyone talking.

9. Tea Sampler
Tea is a great way to help relax the body as well, which is why a tea sampler can be the perfect gift for the people in your life. You can purchase samples at most tea shops and online. However, if you want to save money and make the gift even more creative then you might consider making the sampler on your own. This can be exceptionally easy and cheaper than you can imagine. Simply purchase a variety of teas. You might even look around to see which are good for relaxation, as well as stress and anxiety relief. Once you have all of the options set up, then place them in a cute bag and enjoy the responses you get.

10. A Helpful Coupon Book
Of course, life can be very overwhelming at times. That is why a helpful coupon book is the perfect way to help someone out that is going through a stressful time. You might add in coupons for chores around the house, watching their kids, or even a night out on the town together. You don’t have to add anything that will cost you too much money though, so make sure you plan it to suit your budget. This book is a great gift for parents or spouses, but it can easily be worked out for friends and more as long as you plan accordingly.

Shopping for the person that needs to relax can be easier than ever if you follow this simple guide. Best of all, it won’t leave you spending a fortune on all of your holiday gifts. You might even find something that you love, so you can treat yourself to a holiday treat, as well.

There’s no doubt about it, as soon as Halloween was over, many families were already anticipating the fun of the holiday season. Santa Claus has been on the tips of many people’s tongues for a few weeks now because the holidays means there is going to be a ton of amazing Santa things for the whole family to enjoy. Of course, if you’re not sure where to start, you might miss out on some of the best elements of the holidays. These ten ideas will help you embrace Santa Claus and all of the holiday fun to be had surrounding him. So, bundle the kids up and enjoy the magic of the season while they’re still little.

1. Parade
For most kids, the Santa fun begins during a parade. Typically, Santa Claus makes his grand appearance at the end of the Macy’s Day Thanksgiving parade. This tends to kick off the holiday season, which can be pretty exciting for kids to watch. You can watch this parade on most basic cable news channels, but you can also find it on news apps like NBC and CBS. There will also be live streaming of the event on YouTube and other streaming services. Apart from the Macy’s Day Parade, Santa Claus loves to make an appearance in local parades, too. You might take the time out to check out when your local parade will be or where you can find a parade that is close to your own community. This shouldn’t be hard and will help keep the kids busy for a couple of hours.

2. Visit Santa
The chances are high that Santa has already made an appearance in your local mall. So, visiting Santa might be another great way to kick off all of the holiday fun. If you’re headed to the mall to visit Santa then prepare for a bit of a line. Kids can sit on Santa’s lap and tell him their Christmas wish, but getting a photo of the moment will cost you a bundle. There should be other locations that promote a Santa visit too. For instance, just about every holiday festival or activity will have a Santa to visit. Many of these options will charge you to take a photo with Santa, but you might also find that some will gladly allow you to take your own Santa photo. This can actually be more relaxing for the kids too, which makes it a win-win for everyone.

3. Write Letters
One of the most common activities for kids to enjoy during the holiday season is to write letters to Santa Claus. Kids having been doing this for generations, which makes it a tradition most parents love to take part in. You might take the time to sit down with your child and think over what they would like to say to Santa Claus. If the child is older, you might even have them sit down and honestly reflect on the things that they did throughout the year, instead of just allowing them to say they were good or bad. This is a great time to prep them for making resolutions for the New Year. Your Santa letters can even be addressed and shipped out to the North Pole, with an official address given by the post office. If you’re feeling generous this year, then you can even opt to adopt one of the letters the Post Office receives. These letters tend to be from children that are asking for basic necessities or assistance in other ways.

4. Santa Hotline
With the anticipation of Christmas on the rise, sometimes visiting with Santa and writing him a letter isn’t really enough for some kids. Luckily, there is a hotline that you can call to get your child a personalized phone call from Santa. This can be one of the most exciting things for a kid, especially when they hear Santa speak their name. The Santa Hotline is very easy to use too, so parents won’t have to put in a lot of effort in order to plan this out for their child. It can also be a great motivator for kids that are still being a bit naughty and need the extra boost to get back on track.

5. Community Events
Community events are probably one of the best ways to have a lot of fun with the family during the holiday. The events depend on your area, but most places will at least do a little something to make the kids happy during the holidays. One of the more common items to see is breakfast or cookies with Santa. This allows kids to enjoy a treat while getting to hang out with Santa Claus. Generally, you will also find storytimes, craft sessions, and similar activities to help engage all of the kids. Some areas will have complete festivals with games, rides, food, as well as, a meet and greet with Father Christmas. There are also numerous tree lighting and Christmas light events that feature the man in red. So, make sure to check out what’s going on in your area, as you’re certain to enjoy some holiday cheer from these activities.

6. Santa Radar
If the kids are getting super excited about the big day, you might want to pull up the Santa radar. This amazing website gives updates about Santa and his whereabouts, so kids can know when they need to hit the sack for the night. The Santa radar also offers tidbits about what is going on at the workshop, which can help your kids feel even more excited about Christmas. The Santa radar is a free website as well, which makes it even more fun for the whole family. With this amazing radar on your side, your certain to have your kids in bed well before the estimated arrival of Santa, thanks to the announcer’s helpful suggestions.

7. Bake Cookies
It might not be time for Santa if you don’t have the cookies to welcome him into the home. Baking cookies for St. Nick is definitely a holiday tradition that many families have passed down from generation to generation. Baking cookies can be a great way of keeping kids busy as they anticipate the big night. The kind of cookies you make are totally up to your family, too. In fact, you can have a bake-a-thon and make a variety of cookies, if you want. These make easy gifts for loved ones on the holidays too. Of course, two of the more popular options are sugar cookies and gingerbread cookies. This is largely because the cookies are easy to decorate, which makes them even more fun for kids to enjoy.

8. Santa Crafts
Bringing more Santa fun to the holidays is easily accomplished when you try out some Santa crafts. There are so many fun options that you can make, which will allow you to easily keep the kids busy throughout the holiday season. Holiday ornaments featuring Santa are especially fun and can be used year after year. You might start by using a salt dough to create handprints and then transform them into a cute Santa that everyone will love. You can also make Santas out of recyclables, like toilet rolls or unused paper plates. If you don’t want to get too in-depth then there are lots of Santa print outs online that will allow your kids to show off their creativity.

9. Elf on a Shelf
If you want to add to the magic of your home, while having some fun with the kids, then an elf on the shelf might be a good option. This toy typically comes with a book so kids can learn all about the elf that has been assigned to keep an eye on their behavior and report in to Santa. Elf on the shelf toys can be purchased in both genders and can be improved with custom clothing and fun pets. Of course, the best thing about the elf on the shelf is parents get to move it around in fun ways to help make the magic come to life for the children of the home. All in all, you will find that there are lots of fun ideas for your elves too, if you are having problems figuring out how you would like to display the elves on a daily basis.

10. Holiday Shows
When it comes to activities at home that won’t cost you anything, you’ll love all of the holiday shows the family can engage in. Almost every streaming service is going to have an abundance of great options, and cable will have numerous channels dedicated to offering some holiday favorites. Of course, you can also bring out your own collection. If you have a lot of holiday movies, then wrap them up and have the kids unwrap one every day in December. It will help prevent fighting over what to watch while adding some holiday magic to each day. Its also a great bonding experience for the whole family.

Allowing your kids to embrace the Santa experience can be one of the best things about the holidays. These ten ideas will help your kids get even more out of their love of Santa, which will definitely make the holiday even more magical. So, get ready to make memories with your kiddos as you engage in the holiday fun together.

One of the hardest aspects of winter is finding something to do. There are tons of activities for kids to embrace during the winter months, but if you want some kid-free time then you might find it a bit hard to discover a new activity that won’t leave you in the cold. There are actually lots of ways for adults to warm up the cold days of winter though. This doesn’t mean you have to spend a fortune either, as these ten ideas will keep you under budget as the holiday season rolls in along with the icy cold weather. So, embrace winter and all of the excitement it can bring to your free time.

1. Experiment with Warm Drinks
When it comes to killing a bit of time, your kitchen is the best place to start. Nothing says winter quite like curling up with a good book and sipping on a warm drink. However, most people tend to keep their hot beverages to coffee or cocoa. There are so many more options to try out though that can actually spark your interest in the kitchen again. Luckily, there are a boatload of amazing drink recipes online, so you can try as many as you want. Some of the more common options are mulled wine, apple cider and flavored cocoa. However, that is only scratching the surface of all of the amazing options you can try. Best of all, these warm drinks can be savored on their own, or spiked to help you relax during the busy season. During your experimentations, you might discover your new favorite holiday drink.

2. Join a Book Club
Nothing says winter quite like a good book and a cozy blanket. Many people pass up such a great reading opportunity because they’re simply not sure what to read. Luckily, in this day and age, you have access to so many book clubs, which can steer you in the right direction. In your own community, you should be able to join a book club from your local library or even the workplace. If not, you might ask around to see if friends are part of a club that is accepting new members. If you don’t have the schedule to meet up with a club each month, then consider choosing an online club. You can find one based on the genres you love or simply one that is going to challenge you. If you want a highly popular book club then consider joining celebrity-based club. Generally, most online clubs will offer chatrooms and forums to help you talk about the book. Some will even send the book to you for months for a fee, so you won’t even have to worry about shopping.

3. Share Good Tidings
December is actually the national month to write to a friend, which makes it the perfect time for you to share some good tidings with those that you love and miss. Of course, December is also home to National Christmas Card day too, which gives you even more excuses to reconnect with the people in your life that you don’t often get to talk to. Sending a letter, postcard, or holiday greeting shouldn’t take long at all and is fairly inexpensive. If you’re not really one for the written word, then find the time to give your loved ones a phone call or a visit. They will probably appreciate this more than any gift you might otherwise have given them. You might also consider visiting those in a nursing home or hospital to help share good cheer to those who might not see much of it throughout the year.

4. Donate Goods
The holidays can be a tough time for many people. If you find yourself having trouble finding homes for all of your goods, then you might take it upon yourself to go through your items. This will allow you to make space in the home, which can help you avoid clutter straight away. Feel free to go through clothes, books, toys, decorations and more. Then, when you’ve figured out what you’d like to keep and what is just taking up space, make a donation run. A lot of families will be thankful to have the things they need to celebrate the holidays at an affordable price. If you want to do more than donate your old items, then you can easily find charities for toys, jackets, and food in the community during this time of year. This will certainly help you feel the seasonal spirit while allowing others to enjoy the season too.

5. Bingo
You might not expect it, but Bingo can be a great way to help you kill some time while introducing you to an unlikely activity. Bingo has been popular for generations, but that doesn’t mean that you have to be of a certain age to enjoy it. In fact, many Bingo clubs that are popping up now do cater to younger generations. Most Bingo clubs do charge per card to play, which can cost you a bundle if you tend to take on too many cards at once. However, there are also charity Bingos that offer lower prices. You will get what you pay for though in regard to prizes, so keep this in mind when you choose which establishment you want to try out. Best of all, December is National Bingo Month, so you might find some awesome deals while you explore this fun activity.

6. Go Bowling
If you want to get a little workout while staying indoors for warmth, then bowling is a great solution to the problem. Generally, bowling is pretty cheap, which allows you to easily get in a game or two without having to work it into your budget. Bowling is a great activity to share with friends too and can easily be done on a weeknight as it only takes up an hour or so, depending on how many frames you’d like to bowl. You can even split the costs with friends, which will definitely make the activity more than worth it. Best of all, you can usually grab cheap snacks at bowling alleys too, which will make your little gathering even more enjoyable.

7. Make Holiday Crafts
Crafts aren’t just for kids as there are so many technical things you can design that will make your home look extraordinary. Crafting over the holiday season can be one of the best ways to blow off some steam too, as it allows you to do a tranquil activity while still ensuring you are utilizing your creativity. Holiday crafting can save you a whole lot of money too. For instance, you will be able to make wreaths, tree ornaments, signs, and an assortment of other crafts that can cost you a small fortune otherwise. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can also sell some of your items to earn a little extra income during the spending season. You can also put together crafts that can be given out as holiday gifts to those you love.

8. Window Shopping
Winter is a great time for shopping, but if you want to stick to a budget then you can easily head to the mall for a little window shopping. This activity will allow you to hang out in a warm place while enjoying the seasonal spirit with others. Window shopping can be a great tactic too, as it will allow you to look for items you might want to shop for later on. This will help you understand if sales are truly worth it, so you can maximize your savings over the holiday season.

9. Enjoy Holiday Productions
If you’re looking for a cheap form of entertainment, then holiday products are a great value. You can find these productions all over the place too, which will definitely allow you to mix things up a bit and enjoy some exciting things. One of the first places to look for a holiday production is local schools and colleges. Generally, you will find plays, choir concerts and so much more. Best of all, paying the low price of a ticket to one of these productions will benefit the students. You might luck out and find some professional productions, too. However, this will cost you a bit more money. There should also be community events that bring you holiday movies to the big screen or in a park. Holiday tree lightings are also filled with fun carolers and more, so make sure you arrive on time for everything you’re interested in.

10. Host a Brunch
Another exciting activity to engage in is brunch. Of course, this doesn’t mean you need to go to a restaurant in order to have a nice brunch with friends. Instead, consider hosting a brunch at your own home. Brunch is one of the cheapest meals to make as long as you plan for it carefully. For instance, if you make a lot of dishes using eggs, then you’ll be on the right path to a delicious meal that will satisfy everyone for next to nothing. If you’re feeling lost or intimated there are lots of great brunch recipes online too. You might also consider making some fun drinks to add to the mix. Brunch can be one of the best ways to get everyone together for some fun though, so make sure to treasure the memories you create. You may even want to make it a monthly or weekly thing with your friends, which can help you enjoy your friendship throughout the year.

Finding warm activities for adults doesn’t have to be a challenge. These ten tips will allow you to create a fun winter that will make you feel like you’ve gained so much from the season. You might even take some of the things you enjoyed during the winter into other seasons to help fulfill your needs.

Jewelry is one of the most popular gifts during the holiday season. However, a lot of responsibility goes into owning jewelry, which many people don’t consider when purchasing or receiving such a gift. Luckily, Real Jewelry Month is the perfect time to take a step back and look at the possession you have or those that you might want to purchase. This month is dedicated to educating yourself and others about real jewelry and helping to ensure your investments are well taken care of. These ten tips will allow you to get more out of your possessions while helping you assess what you have and what you plan to buy.

1. Certification
One of the most important things you can do when shopping for a new piece of jewelry is to figure out if it comes certified. Most real jewelry will, so if a jeweler doesn’t want to provide you with the certification, you might want to take your business elsewhere. Of course, you could ask for the item to be inspected prior to purchasing, if you really like a piece. Usually, this will cost you out of pocket, but the inspector will then provide you with a certification, so you can prove exactly what the piece is. Your certification will help you insure your piece and can improve the price at which you sell it. You will want to make sure to store your certification in a safe place, as well.

2. Take Photos of the Item
When it comes down to it, one of the best things that you can do for your jewelry is taking a picture of it. This provides you with tangible evidence that the item does belong to you. This also helps to provide your insurance company with evidence of the item, in case something does happen. Apart from providing you with proof that the item does exist, you’ll also find that taking photos will help you monitor the piece over time. This is great for finding problems before they become too difficult to repair. It will also help you discover when the clarity of your jewels is starting to diminish, so you can get them cleaned. Make sure you keep a hard copy of your photos with a timestamp too, as this will make documentation much easier.

3. Insure you Jewelry
If you have expensive jewelry in your possession, then it is important to get it insured. Just like any other expensive item in your household, you don’t want to have your items at risk. Some home insurance companies will talk to you about your possessions to see if anything of high value does need to be insured. This is usually the case with policies that will help you replace your belongings if the unthinkable happens. However, if your insurance company doesn’t help out then there are lots of companies that do. You will have to shop around for a good rate, but with a little patience, you’re bound to find a company that will work for your needs. Insuring your items will ensure you’re not out thousands in case there is a theft or disaster that leaves your items gone.

4. Inspect Items
There’s no doubt about it, your items aren’t going to be in perfect condition forever. In fact, if you’re not careful they might not be in perfect condition when you purchase them. So, it is important to get your items checked out every year. You can do a simple inspection of your own, especially on new items. However, after a certain period of time, you might consider getting a jeweler to look over the piece every few years. This will allow you to get problems fixed quickly, so they can’t progress. It will also help maintain the value of your jewelry. It can also save you money on any minor repairs that may have become major repairs if left unattended.

5. Learn To Clean Each Piece
Cleaning is a huge part of caring for your jewelry. If you want to keep everything looking nice, then you can easily learn how to clean each piece yourself. There are actually instructions for a wide variety of different items, so if you’re curious as to how to clean each piece then there are lots of tutorials that work for you. If you’re not comfortable with cleaning items yourself, then you can always pay for the service. Some companies that you purchase from might even offer this service for you. Make sure you check your warranty for this information or call the store up and ask. This will allow you to use a trusted service that will truly make your jewelry look fabulous.

6. Store Properly
Another problem that many people face when working with jewelry is they do not store the items properly. This can be a huge problem because it can cause corrosion and a lack of clarity when it comes to your jewelry. Luckily, jewelry isn’t very hard to take care of. Usually, if you place the items in a controlled environment then they are good to go. Sometimes, it is best to hang necklaces and place rings and bracelets on a special hanger. This will prevent them from intertwining or being damaged by other pieces. Another great place to store the items is in a safe. This will not only keep them out of sunlight and away from moisture but will also ensure they are safe from prying eyes. Some items will come in a special bag when purchased and this is generally a good place to keep your item if you don’t want to invest in extra accessories.

7. Ditch Trends
Many people, especially around the holidays, tend to follow the trendy gifts of the year. Instead of doing this, you might consider looking into pieces that will have more value over time, as well as more personal value. The markets tend to be flooded with the trendy pieces, which means they’re not going to sell for as much in the upcoming years. On top of that, the bulk design might cause them to be made as cheaply as possible. Thus, the durability of these items might not be as trustworthy as you would hope. Of course, there is also the fact that the piece won’t make the recipient feel special when everyone around them is wearing it. A signature piece, on the other hand, will have a more unique look with a design that can stand the tests of time, in most cases. It also offers the message that you think the person is special.

8. Shop Birthstones
Diamonds aren’t the only stone out there that can win someone’s heart. If you want to show off your love for someone, you might shop birthstone jewelry. There are many unique pieces you can find and the birthstones will offer a great way to show off the recipient’s personality. Shopping birthstone jewelry can also be on the frugal side too. Generally, during the month of someone’s birth, you will find that stones are much cheaper. If you don’t like the jewelry on offer during this time, you can always have a ring customized to suit your needs at a much cheaper price than other stones. So, don’t forget about the beauty of birthstones when you’re planning a special surprise.

9. Research Companies You Purchase From
If you’re looking to purchase jewelry that is going to be a collector’s piece, or you simply want to purchase responsibly, then it is imperative that you research the companies you purchase from. Most companies will talk about the materials they use on their websites; however, if you’re shopping at a brick and mortar shop then feel free to ask the company questions. You might even ask for proof of where they purchase materials from. Some companies still do not use fair trade or harm free diamonds, which might make your piece less appealing. Companies that use less than desirable materials might also sell you items that won’t last very long.

10. Don’t Be Tricked Into Purchasing
Another problem many people face when shopping is feeling pressured into purchasing something. This can cause someone to spend more money than they may have wanted. However, it can also leave someone with an item they didn’t really want to buy. If you come across a store with a really pushy salesperson then don’t be afraid to walk out. Try to come back at a different time or simply shop at a different store. Luckily, online shopping allows you to shop ahead before you go to a store to check out something. This gives you some power over the situation and will allow you to make a quick purchase. Of course, if you don’t mind shopping online then you can easily do this too; however, you might not get the item you expected, so be careful.

Celebrating real jewelry month is the perfect time to embrace your collection and prepare you to shop more efficiently in the future. These tips are not only helpful for the items you currently have but will make you a better gift-giver too. So, embrace your love of jewelry while celebrating this amazing month.

November is known as National Adoption Awareness Month, which makes it a month worth giving even more thanks for. With the month hosting a wide assortment of adoption events, as well as National Adoption Day on November 29, you might feel inspired to finally take the leap into adoption—if you’ve been considering it. This month is a wonderful time to work on finding the information you need, discovering what adoption entails, and to mentally prepare for the process and all of the ups and downs that it could possibly bring. These ten tips will help you make the most out of your experience, while also allowing you to learn the steps you can take to cut back on the initial costs of the project.

1. Think it Over
Adoption is a big commitment, so it requires a whole lot of thought. If you’re considering adoption, the best place to start is all of the online resources available to you. You might also consider making an appointment to talk with a social worker about the prospects of adopting as they can help you with a checklist of everything you’ll need to do. If you’ve been mulling over the process for some time now, then you might consider taking the next steps. This would require you to speak to an agency or foster care service. You might even sign up for parenting classes and get certified to see how you feel about it. Another great way to help with the thought process is to talk with parents that have already adopted. You can find an assortment of groups online or in your community that can help you out. Adoption can be a slow process, but it can also be very pricey. So, if you’re not sure you’re ready then hold out until you are positive.

2. Consider Foster Care
One of the most efficient ways to adopt is actually going through your local foster care system. When you sign up to be a foster parent, you will undergo classes, background checks and more. All of this will prepare you for adoption, so when the right child comes along you can adopt if possible. Becoming a foster parent also allows you to test the waters to see if adoption is really something you would like to consider. You can take in children in your chosen age group, in most cases. Foster care also gives you the opportunity to adopt siblings, which can be a wonderful journey. There are thousands of kids waiting for a home in foster care and you could be just the right person to give a child in need the loving home they deserve.

3. State Subsidies
When you adopt through foster care, you might be privy to a few state subsidies that can help make the child’s transition a lot easier for all of you. Of course, you will have to fill out a lot of paperwork in order to get these subsidies to help you out. You also have to meet certain qualifications to get them. If you’re already working with a caseworker, then they might be able to help point you in the right direction, as every state’s subsidies are different. If you do qualify for the assistance, you could earn a monthly stipend and your child will receive state-funded medical care. This can be particularly helpful when you are adopting a special needs child.

4. Grants
You might be surprised to find out that there are actually grants available that do help people to adopt. The key to getting these grants is to actually apply for them though, so you might spend quite a bit of your time looking around for these. When you receive the grants it will be well worth the time. Some grants will offer you a few hundred dollars, while some can offer thousands. So, make sure you apply for as many grants as you possibly can. There are lots of resources to help point you in the right direction, but you can also talk with social workers and parents that have already been through the adoptive process for assistance too.

5. Fundraise
These days, you can find a fundraiser for just about everything under the sun. So, why not use the fundraising to your advantage. You can go the old-fashioned way by offering services like a bake sale or a car wash. This should help you make some money to help with some of the initial costs of adoption. Of course, one of the more popular ways to fundraise, and probably one of the most lucrative, is to fundraise through a special website. You can pass your fundraiser around on social media and even share the link via email. This tends to attract people, so you have a greater chance of earning money for the adoption of your dreams.

6. Shop Around For Agencies
If you don’t want to go through foster care, then you should consider shopping around for an agency that works for you. You should never go for the first agency you come across out of convenience. This might end up forcing you to receive subpar service or cost you a lot of money in the long run. There are numerous agencies available to you, so make sure you make appointments to talk to as many as you can. You should also look at the information on the company’s website and reviews from other clients that have worked with the agency. This will allow you to feel as comfortable as possible throughout the adoption process.

7. Check Out Your Employee Benefits
It might not seem possible, but the company that you work for can actually help you during the adoption process. These days, many companies actually offer grants or assistance programs to help out employees going through the adoption process. Of course, the first step in figuring out this process is to talk to your boss or human resource representative. They should be able to point you in the right direction when it comes to filling out the necessary paperwork. Even if the company isn’t willing to help out financially, you might find that many companies will offer paid leave to those adopting. This leave can consist of parental bonding time when you do take custody of your child or travel time if you are adopting a child from a different area. Of course, you will also need time off for court dates, so make sure you are open and honest with your company, as this might help make the process a lot less stressful.

8. Tax Credit
After you’ve gone through the adoption process, you can actually get some of the money you spent back. There is a tax credit that allows you to submit your expenses that went into the adoption process. This includes travel, medical expenditures and more. You can also get a tax credit for adoption, which, on top of the child credit, can help you cut back on the expenses you occurred. Of course, the key here is to talk with a tax expert about the adoption. This is very important because they will allow you to find all of the available assistance you can receive for your tax returns.

9. Shop Second Hand
A lot of people only seem to consider the initial price of adoption, which includes travel expenses, medical fees, legal fees and so on. However, you also have to keep in mind that your child will have to have all of the basics already, or else you will not be able to receive custody of them. This includes items like a bed and clothing. Of course, you will most likely want to supply personal belongings like toys, books, and electronics too. This can really add up, especially since you will have to purchase the items all at once. In order to do this frugally, you might choose to shop second hand. There are many great stores that can provide you with items that are practically new. This will allow you to cut back on the amount of money you spend, while still working to pay the necessary fees for adoption.

10. Speak with Lawyers
Another important aspect of adoption is to have a good lawyer. If you’re going through foster care then you might not need a lawyer, but there are some instances where you might need a lawyer, so it is best to be prepared. This is especially true if you are trying to adopt a family member. Finding a lawyer can be a lot of hard work too, so you might look around for a good match for you before you even engage in the process. If you’re low on money, then you may also consider pro bono lawyers, as this will ensure you have the legal aid you need at hand. However, you might not be able to secure a pro bono lawyer in advance, so it is best to have a list of many lawyers that do offer pro bono on hand.

National Adoption Awareness Month is the perfect time to learn about adoption, especially if you’re considering going through the process. These ten tips will help you begin the process or at least help you mull over the idea of adopting. With any luck, you’ll find a solution that will help you maintain a frugal and mildly stress-free experience.

If you love to shop then you’re going to be pretty excited when Black Friday rolls around in just a few short weeks. This year, there are a ton of deals that you might not want to pass up. However, planning for the big day can be almost impossible if you don’t know where to look for the best deals. These ten stores are some of the top players in the Black Friday game and have a lot to offer this year. Our quick overview of each stores’ ads will allow you to figure out which deals you want to go for, so you can maximize your savings with ease. Plus, it will help you find out which stores are offering early deals, so you can score big before Thanksgiving even arrives.

1. Walmart
Walmart is one of the top competitors when it comes to Black Friday deals and holiday shopping in general. You won’t find Walmart hosting a wide array of deals on Black Friday though because the retailer traditionally begins their sales during the evening hours of Thanksgiving Day. Thus, you can knock out any big spending deals before you even have to worry about the deals on Black Friday. Apart from that, Walmart has already started many of its online deals, so hop online daily to see what you can find. However, the really good deals will all appear online the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, so you can shop while prepping your turkey. This year, Walmart is heavily advertising toys, which is no surprise since Toys R Us is no longer around to compete with. You will also find some major deals on gaming bundles. As always, Walmart will also have some great deals on TVs in-store, too. So, don’t miss out.

2. Amazon
Amazon is known for having exciting deals on Black Friday and Cyber Monday. As years have progressed, the deals seem to stretch out even longer though. For instance, this year, you can find exceptional deals all month long. This can really help you get a jump start on some major savings, so you don’t have to feel rushed as the holidays arrive. Already, you can find mind-blowing deals on things like DNA tests, which make amazing gifts. Certainly, Amazon will save most of the fireworks for the big days, but you never know what you may find. Generally, they do offer random sales, which largely concentrate on technology, books, clothes, and toys. However, they are known for their TV sales, which tend to go very quickly. You will also find some great deals on Amazon products, so this is the perfect time to shop around for security devices, Kindles, Echoes and more.

3. Target
Target is another major competitor, which is why you should definitely check out their deals on Black Friday. You will find that this store is offering a lot of the same items as their competitor, Walmart. This is largely because both stores are pushing toys. However, you might find that both stores have different toys to choose from, so you might need to shop both destinations to get what you need. Target, on the other hand, is offering more Nintendo deals in their gaming sales, which is perfect for fans hoping to dive into some of the newest games on the market. You will also find more various deals on gadgets like earbuds and other sound equipment. The store is bulking up on books too, especially kids’ books, so this is the perfect time to invest in holiday stories to make the season magical even more amazing.

4. Sam’s Club
Although a partner of Walmart, you’ll find that Sam’s Club is offering a lot of deals that differ from Walmart. For starters, you’ll find a lot of great deals on necessities. Food, in particular, will have some awesome deals, so you can stock up on easy meal ideas or simply get ready for the next holiday feast. You will also find items like toilet paper, paper plates and so on that will help you entertain future guests. If you’re looking for the big savings though, then you might want to check out the household section. There, you will find extraordinary deals on furniture and appliances. Of course, it wouldn’t be Black Friday at Sam’s Club without TV deals that can save you up to $500 off the original purchase. Watch for deals that might earn you a gift card, too!

5. Costco
Costco is another wholesale store that makes a big deal around the holiday time. Like its competitor Sam’s Club, you’re going to find a lot of great deals on household necessities. Bulk foods, toilet paper, paper towels, laundry detergent and more will be on sale during this big event. So, treat yourself to some savings on the items you actually do need for the holidays. Apart from the necessities, you’ll also find great deals on appliances both big and small. The store will have fabulous deals on TVs and laptops too, which can save you hundreds. You might even luck out and find a deal on an exciting new smartphone.

6. Kohl’s
Kohl’s is definitely making a name for itself when it comes to Black Friday deals. Although the store isn’t as popular as some of the other retailers on the list, it is offering some exciting prices on items. Since Kohl’s and Amazon have a strong working relationship, you will find some incredible deals on items like Kindles for kids. The store is also offering items like toys and gaming consoles at a competitive price, so you might stop by the store to see what you can find. Apart from that, you’ll find a huge selection of advent calendars and other holiday gifts to check out. Of course, you will also discover a lot of deals on clothing since this is what Kohl’s is primarily known for. Best of all, every time you shop with Kohl’s, you’ll get Kohl’s cash, which can be used on all of those last-minute holiday items.

7. Best Buy
It wouldn’t be Black Friday without the long lines waiting to get into Best Buy. This year will be no different with huge sales that will make you want to shop until you drop. Largely, you’re going to find competitive deals on TVs, laptops, sound equipment and more. You might also find some deals on gaming consoles and games. However, some of the best deals might actually be on appliances, so if you’re looking to upgrade your home then make sure you stop by to see if you can get a good deal.

8. JC Penney
JC Penney is still a big player on Black Friday too, even though many of the stores have closed this year. You can still find many of the deals online if you find that your store is no longer available. JC Penney is very popular for deals on clothing, which is where you’re going to find most of your major deals for Black Friday. However, the store also has deals with major brands like Sephora, so you will find makeup, perfume and more on sale. There are always smaller items like slippers and blankets that are wrapped up for the holiday season soon. This will certainly make gift giving easy and with the deals, it will be cheaper than you ever expected.

9. Home Depot
If you’re shopping for dad or anyone that loves home improvement tasks, then you can easily find some great deals on tools that will make any DIY fan thrilled. Apart from tools, you can choose from so many other items, too. For instance, Home Depot is known for having huge deals on appliances, which might help you upgrade your home just in time for the holidays. There are even toys for sale on the website. Of course, one of the highlights of the store is going to be holiday décor. You will find everything from trees to lawn ornaments on sale for Black Friday, so shop with your home in mind when you’re hitting this major sale.

10. Old Navy
You can pretty much count on Old Navy to bring on the deals when it comes to clothing on Black Friday. You’re going to find deals up to 50% off on most of your favorite items, including the brand’s iconic jeans. There are also going to be low prices on stocking stuffers like fuzzy socks, mittens, beanies and more. The store is taking one step further this year by offering 40% off your purchase during the week prior to Thanksgiving. Then, when Black Friday arrives, everything jumps to 50% off for five days after the holiday ends. You’ll continue to see deals throughout the holiday season too!

It’s practically time to get excited about Black Friday and all of the amazing things that you will find on this huge day of shopping. These ten stores will just get you started on the fun, so make sure you look around for all of the possible deals before you make out your game plan. Of course, make sure you are safe and aware throughout your shopping experience.

With November already here, it’ll be Thanksgiving before you can even snap your fingers. This can be a huge problem if you don’t have the budget planned out for the holiday meal and entertainment. Planning out Thanksgiving can be a bit tricky on a tight budget, but there are a few ways you can make it happen without causing yourself a lot of stress. These ten tips will help you find the assistance you need to make Thanksgiving amazing without having to feel like you can’t handle the holiday season. Best of all, these tips will help you save money so you can embrace the start of Black Friday on Thursday evening.

1. Take Inventory
When it comes to holiday shopping, one of the best things you can do is shopping your own pantry first. Make sure you go through and find the items you’ve already bulked upon. For instance, you might already have vegetables, broths, gravy mixes, cornbread and more just collecting dust in your pantry. If this is the case, then you already have the makings of much of your meal. Make sure you write down what you have before you go shopping or make your list by knocking these items off of it. If you do have to purchase more items, consider buying in bulk so your pantry will have more of the items it commonly uses. Of course, you can also use many of the items for the next holiday meal, which will be less than a month away, in most cases.

2. Consider Food Baskets
If you’re really having trouble finding the money for food for the holidays then there is no reason to fret, just yet. There are actually numerous charities that offer free food for the holiday season. One of the most popular charities to check is the Salvation Army. With this charity event, you should receive a main course, sides and more. You might even find coupons to help you get the rest of the items for the meal. Of course, you will also find that some local charities and churches will also offer the same service, so it is important to call around to see where you can find assistance. You might have to qualify for the service, but often times churches will help you even if you’ve just fallen on hard times temporarily. There will also be many community events where you can get a hot meal for free or for a low cost. Of course, you will have to check out the information in your community to find out specific dates. If you’re connected to social media, this should make things a lot easier to plan out.

3. Keep the Meal Simple
A lot of people think they have to go above and beyond in order to create the perfect meal for Thanksgiving. This isn’t the case though. There is nothing wrong with having a modest meal for the holidays. You might start by choosing a main dish. If your family rarely ever eats a whole turkey or ham then purchase something smaller, like a turkey breast. This will be cheaper and will ensure you won’t waste either. Apart from that, you might choose one or two sides. To make things even better, try to choose items that you might not normally eat. This will make the meal more memorable and exciting. Then, work on one special dessert that the whole family will love. This simplistic meal won’t break the bank and will still allow you to enjoy your special dinner.

4. Utilize Recipes
When it comes to making your holiday meal, recipes are going to be your best friend. This will allow you to cook from scratch, which can save you big bucks on your holiday meal. You might start by planning out your recipes with ingredients you already have, this is especially important when it comes to spices as this area can really add to the price tag. Of course, if you’re just looking for cheap recipes to try altogether, there are so many recipes available online that will help you find everything that you’re looking for. Trying out new recipes is also a great way to improve your cooking skills and find new family favorites that everyone will love.

5. Grocery Shop Slowly
Since there are still a few weeks left before the holiday, you have plenty of time to get your grocery shopping in. When it comes to shopping for Thanksgiving items, your best option is to shop slowly. A lot of people will run into a store and grab everything they need at once. However, if you’d like to save money on your grocery shopping bill, then take your time. Start by searching for sales. Most stores will stagger their sales, so it is wise to shop when you find your item on sale. You might also try multiple stores to find the items you need at the best possible price. As the holidays near, you’ll find that you found everything you needed without having to stress over the overcrowded stores.

6. Ask Others to Help
You really don’t have to tackle the entire holiday meal yourself. If you have guests coming over then ask them to help out. You might start by asking each attendee or family to bring some food or drinks to help make the event even more exciting. Most people are more than happy to bring a signature dish in order to make the meal feel more like home for them. Doing this will allow you to concentrate on the main course and anything else that your guests might not have been able to bring. Of course, if you’re having trouble with the meal entirely, you might see if you can attend Thanksgiving at someone else’s home. This will give you a well-deserved break from cooking while enjoying the true meaning of the holiday.

7. Skip the Disposables
It’s really easy to fall into using disposables during the holiday season. After all, there are already a ton of dishes to wash from all of the cooking you’re doing. However, if you’re looking to save money on the event then you might have to throw convenience to the wind. Instead of spending a fortune on paper plates and plastic utensils, just pull out your dishes and serve on those. This will help cut back on the price tag of your meal and can make the meal look a lot better, too. Plus, it might be nice to show a little gratitude to the planet by not filling landfills with even more items that weren’t necessarily needed.

8. Cheap Entertainment
Food isn’t the only thing you’ll need to worry about during your Thanksgiving meal. It can also be really difficult to entertain everyone, especially when you’re busy trying to get the meal going. There are many ways you can keep everyone going through, without having to worry about family feuds and so on. One of the easiest options is to turn on the TV. Thanksgiving is known for its iconic parade, dog show, and football games. So, this should take up the job of entertaining some of your guests. You might also bring out a deck of cards and some board games for some of the guests that love to be mentally engaged. Kids are also easy to keep busy with holiday crafts or simple coloring pages that can be printed off the internet for free. Of course, there is also lots of great music to stream if you want to cut back on some of the background noise.

9. Simple Décor
Thanksgiving doesn’t require you to go crazy over decorating, so don’t spend a fortune on fall décor that you’re just going to take down after the holiday is over. You also don’t really need specialized Thanksgiving items, either. Instead, consider using crafts as décor. This will add a cute and quaint style to the home, which will make the meal seem even more comfortable. You might also find that using fruits and vegetables, like apples, pumpkins, corn, and gourds can add a lot of fun to the home. This will actually help cut back on clean up, too.

10. Just Go Out
If you’re part of a small family or you’re alone for the holidays, then your best option might be to just go out to eat. You might be surprised by how many restaurants are actually open for the holiday. Denny’s is probably one of the most common restaurants because it is open 24/7 every day of the week. However, there are also lots of other establishments to choose from. There are also a number of local places you might be able to try out too, but you will probably have to call to make sure they are open. Going out for Thanksgiving can actually save money if there aren’t many people in your party. This also saves you clean up too, and you won’t have to worry about your leftovers going to waste.

Thanksgiving should be fun, so don’t let the stress of your meal hinder you from enjoying yourself. These ten tips will allow you to make the most of Thanksgiving, even if you’re on a tight budget. So, let the holiday be fun again, as you have many weeks of budget crunching to deal with as the holidays are in full swing.

The count down to the holidays is upon us, with Thanksgiving approaching faster than expected. Thus, its time to start thinking about your budget when it comes to holiday shopping and more. With the Thanksgiving feast to plan, Black Friday spending to consider, as well as the gift-giving holidays on their way, you might be wondering how you’re going to manage to keep on track with your spending. These tips will help you cut back on your budget, so you’ll be ready to handle all of the major expenditures without breaking a sweat.

1. Bake
With Halloween out of the way, you probably have a lot of candy hanging out in your home. This will give you the perfect opportunity to bake. Baking is a great way to save on your budget because it can be time-consuming, so you won’t need to go out for entertainment. Baking treats will also cut down on grocery shopping since you can make more treats from scratch than you can purchase from the store. This will bring more comfort to the cold months while also allowing you to enjoy some amazing things. Plus, you can actually get a jump start on some of your holiday dishes. For instance, if you plan on serving rolls or other bread then simply make the dough in advance. You can also make pies in advance too. Simply make the crust and filling, put it together, then put it away in the freezer. This can cut down on prep time. You can even bake holiday gifts to truly get a head start on a frugal season.

2. Grocery Shop Slowly
It can be overwhelming to go to a grocery shop during the holiday season. Apart from budgets being tighter, there is a lot more food to pick up too. So, during the weeks before a holiday, you might try to grocery shop slowly. Don’t toss everything you need into the cart so you can just get it over with. Instead, you might want to pick up things for the feast a little bit at a time. For instance, if you find a sale on turkeys that you know can’t be beaten, then grab one. Then, you can wait on purchasing the sides and desserts. Bulk sales are always a win too. You might even shop in a way that allows you to use some of the ingredients for your everyday meals. This should truly bring some peace to your day and might allow you to save more money on your holiday feast than you ever expected.

3. Embrace Crafts
Another way to kill some time when you’re on a budget is to pull out your craft supplies. This can be one of the best aspects of cutting back on money because it allows you to exercise your creative side. If you can, stick with the craft supplies that you already have at home, as this will help you save even more money. You can also use recyclables to help upcycle some of the items that you use. If you’re looking to make all of your crafting lucrative, then you might try selling the items during a farmer’s market or festive marketplace. You can also make some of your crafts as holiday gifts, which will ensure everyone has a gift without forcing you to spend a small fortune.

4. Shop in Advance
Staying on budget is important, which is why shopping in advance can help you save a small fortune. This tactic can also ease your need to purchase so many things when you’re saving up for the holidays. Essentially, you should start window-shopping in early November to figure out which items you’d actually like to purchase. Once you have an idea, you can also write down the prices you find, so you know exactly where to purchase the item and you have a great reference point for when all of the holiday sales begin. You might even start doing a little research on Black Friday items, so you can easily grab the deals you want quickly without spending too much on an item that you’ve had your eye on.

5. Find Free Activities
Saving money doesn’t have to mean you need to be a shut-in. Instead of staying put all of the time, you might look around your area to find some free activities. With the holidays on their way, you might be surprised as to how many things there are to do in your community. You might find free meals, caroling trips and community festivals that won’t cost you a dime. There might even be a few parades during the season, which will certainly make for an interesting activity. Apart from holiday activities, you might find free sporting or music events. You should also keep up with activities you’ve already paid for like your child’s sports programs or music lessons. If you keep to frugal activities, you should cut back on the money with ease.

6. Scale Back on Non-Necessities
It is hard to scale back, but sometimes it is a necessity to do so. Sometimes, it is hard to figure out what we’re paying for that isn’t a necessity too. So, when you start with this task, you might start by looking at things like subscription services. If you have a box coming to your home every month and you didn’t pay for it in advance, then this is one thing that you can cancel. Even food subscription boxes can be a luxury item as you’ll pay way more for them than you would on these opposed to just buying groceries. After you knock out these items, you might look at luxury items that you purchase. For instance, if you’re out of expensive makeup then you might consider a cheaper alternative until the holidays are over. Even cable can be a luxury if you’re on a tight budget. You might be surprised how many luxuries you have when you sit down to think about it and how much you spend on them every month.

7. Free Food
If your budget is exceptionally tight, then you’ll be relieved to know that there are many places you can find free food. Most food banks are available to help people out on a daily basis and can supply you with canned foods and so much more to help you out. If it is the holiday feast that has you worried then many of these facilities will actually host a holiday basket, complete with turkey and all of the sides. These programs have helped many families for decades, so it should be easy to find information on them. Some charities and grocery stores will also host free holiday meals, so everyone can have a hot meal as a community. These events are free of cost but are first come first serve so make sure to show up early. Of course, if you don’t have a problem with food, but would like to help out then you probably won’t have a hard time finding a volunteer program to do so during this time of the year.

8. Ditch Eating Out
Food is probably a large part of your budget, but there are many ways to cut back on this pricey part of your spending list. One of the best ways to cut back is to simply ditch eating out. This is a huge expenditure even if you’re eating cheaper items. So, you might want to make it a goal to skip eating out for a month to see just how much you save. You might be surprised as to how much of your check is left over when you ditch restaurants. Of course, this means you’re going to have to be disciplined for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This is especially true when it comes to coffee. So, you might have to look up some awesome meal prepping ideas to ensure you can keep temptation at bay.

9. Utilize the Crock Pot
When it comes to cutting back on your grocery bill, you might consider using your crock pot more. There are numerous recipes available that cost very little, which will allow you to make lots of amazing meals without spending a fortune. You can even make desserts and snacks in the crockpot, which will make things even easier to deal with. Best of all, most crockpot meals allow you to dump the ingredients and leave the dish alone. This makes it perfect for busy days, so you won’t have to deal with the temptation of getting fast food because there is no time to cook at home.

10. No Spending Pact
Another way to cut back on spending is to make a promise to yourself that you won’t actually spend any extra money. This means no luxury items, for an entire month. You’ll essentially be buying groceries and paying bills for a month. When the month is over, you’ll have saved more than you might expect. This will give you plenty of money to spend on holiday gifts. Of course, you don’t have to practice this for an entire month. You can actually do it for a week or even just one day out of the week. As you practice the no-spending pact, you might grow accustomed to it, which will allow you to save more money throughout the year too.

Preparing for the major spending season doesn’t have to be as stressful as you think. These easy steps will allow you to easily save some money without feeling as put out by the holiday expenditures. Hopefully, this will bring a little extra joy to the busy season.