Shopping, shopping and more shopping

The rush of holiday shopping is in full swing. Have you ever noticed that the younger generation's wish lists are becoming much more costly? I haven't figured out if it's because their tastes are more expensive or if things are just costing more. Either way, this time of the year makes a dent in everyone's wallet.

So how do you control the rising budget? Do you stick to your guns and set a limit and buy what you can within that limit? Or do you just buy what people want and let those purchases dictate the budget? Personally, I go with the former. I have to. I don't make enough money not to budget. When January credit card bills hit the mail, I don't want to hear a drumroll before I open the envelope. The holidays have gotten expensive but that doesn't have to break you. Set a limit and stay within it. Gift giving is not mandatory, it's voluntary.

Happy Holidays.