Yesterday I tried my hand again at shopping for Christmas with my coupons and coupon cards. I'm happy to report that I did fairly well saving while I did spend.

This is what I purchased:

Bath & Body Works $6.00 for body lotion and body mist of their new scent (for younger daughter) It was 50% off and I had buy one get one free coupon

Aerpostale $16.00 for a long-sleeve thermal knit top and a t-shirt (for younger daughter) had 40% off total purchase price and both items were on sale

Victoria's Secret $100+ (don't have receipt in front fo me) PINK brand yoga pants and velour for older daughter. To think that I thought that Vicky's Secret was simply thongs panty and bustiers! HA

Family Christian Store $62 and that was MIL's Christmas and Birthday Gift, Goddaughter's Christmas gift and Thomas Kincaide Christmas cards. I had a 30% off coupon (from doing survey on bottom of receipt) and the new receipt says I saved $42. Maybe?

So I'm making progress and feeling like I'm not spending as much as I could be.

Time between now and dance competition is filled with odd times for semi private lessons, extended times for regular classes, and three-hour long practices for the team dancing (ceili and choreography). My brother is hosting Thanksgiving so I am simply bringing some side items (green bean casserole and cornbread casserole). I'm hosting a party on Friday for my girls (my inlaws are in from out of state and I try to capitalize on having them here), but our party is pretty small down from last year's 30+ and I'm keeping it simple with a crockpot filled of ravioli and chicken Parmesan, plus a green salad and garlic bread. Last year I had several more main menu items and it was too much. And then of course Saturday and Sunday are dance, dance, dance!

Hope all are well and tackling your holiday lists and cooking tasks with a happy heart!