So apparantly Christmas is coming…. this will be my second christmas without credit, as last year my proposal was going through so all my cards had been destroyed (it would have been a christmas miracle to get any money off them..they were maxed out).  I have to say I am actually looking forward to it, i used to dread it because for some strange reason i wanted to buy everyone expensive gifts as some sort of measure of how much i cared. This year i have told everyone i have a budget!  and i would much rather invite them round for a cooked lunch or for mince pies and mulled wine… than hit the overpriced clubs at this time of year or buy them something they have or dont want!

I dont have any children, so i appreciate that the pressure for me is less at this time of year. But i have started to remember what my nan used to tell me about the”olden days!” LOL and home made gifts and its better to have your health!  Plus there have been quite a few good tips on the forum for home made gifts - calanders/chilli oil! … i think i might try to make my own christmas cards i am considering dressing the cat  up in a santa outfit… she must know because just as i typed this she has run off to hide! …. mmm dont rate my chances with the claws!?

Perhaps if as a country/soceity we werent so obessed with mateiral items we could enjoys christmas. I am going to ask for things i need and not want! From family… a new kettle because i know mine is going to pack in any time soon! For example.

This christmas marks for me one year down in my 5 year IVA battle,. Sometimes i feel hopeless i really cant see the end of all this…scrimping and saving but its just one of lifes lessson! Just wished i learnt it earlier!

Last night as i was watching out of the window all the fireworks…much cheaper than a display and i thought what a waste of money…. might as well go and set fire to my meagre amount of cash and watch the sparks! ,……..I really am turning in to a right tight wad!

Even a friend mentioned the other day how frugal i had become - LOL how things change… goodness 18 months or so ago i would have been the first one not to look at the price. ..