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I'm Michelle Cox -- the owner of Lipstick to Crayons. I’m also a Mom to three kids (a teen, tween and toddler), a professional writer (www.michellemcox.com) and a blogger (www.fromthemom.com). And I love to save money (and help you do the same) via frugal deals and steals, coupons and other thrifty practices. My freelance writing business allows me to enjoy the great balance of being a stay-at-home/work-at-home mom, while also making time for blogging, running (ran the Chicago Marathon twice) some amateur photography and scrapbooking. I’m a St. Louis native, although I have lived outside of the city and the state. A few of my passions are amateur photography, scrapbooking and attending kids' sporting events.

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Holiday Entertaining On A Budget- Covered Casserole Dish and Rack Giveaway

November 22nd, 2008 • Related • Filed Under

With skyrocketing food prices and an uncertain economy, families are undoubtedly looking for ways to save money, while still enjoying those tried-and-true holiday traditions. To help, Libby’s Vegetables has partnered with mother-of-seven, Hannah Keeley, who really knows how to stretch a budget when it comes to feeding a big brood, to create budget-friendly dishes for this holiday season.

Traditions With A Twist – Entertaining on a budget this holiday season with Hannah Keeley, mom of 7

Being on a budget doesn’t have to mean telling your children what they can’t have; by adding a unique twist to familiar family traditions, you can build lasting memories that the whole family will cherish. Hannah shows us how:

Old Tradition: Serve Up Your Savings

New Twist: Most families on a budget mean to curb their spending each year but often get carried away. Figure out a budget before you shop that allows you to capture the seasonal spirit but won’t leave you in a crunch. Once you know your budget, set up a savings account and deposit $5, $10, $20 per paycheck so you have a holiday fund to work with.

Old Tradition: Shop ‘Til You Drop

New Twist: You have a budget and you’re ready to hit the supermarket and favorite stores. For the best deals remember to shop early. Plan your holiday meals weeks ahead and store up on non-perishable items at the grocery store. Canned vegetables such as Libby’s are affordable, convenient and taste great in holiday favorites like, green bean casserole, roasted corn, etc. Also, when possible, shop for gifts in the morning; great sales go fast and stores are less crowded at this time allowing you to focus on purchasing the right gifts.

Get more tips for saving money at the grocery store throughout the year at GetBacktotheTable.com

Old Tradition: Mom Owns Kitchen Duty

New Twist: Being on a budget doesn’t mean a holiday short on fun. There’s plenty for everyone to get involved. For example, preparing dinner can be a family affair! Turn the TV off and set down the toys, put on music in the kitchen and give everyone a fun task to handle. Kids as young as six-years-old can measure ingredients or open a can – just make sure it’s a child-safe can opener. The older ones can help set the table with holiday décor. For more tips on how to get the whole family into the kitchen, visit Get Back to the Table.

Download budget- and family-friendly holiday recipes from Libby’s CANvenient Recipe Database

Old Tradition: Decked out Décor

New Twist: Going overboard with holiday décor can be tempting. But blowing a bundle on fancy decorations will not necessarily lead to long-lasting memories. In fact, making ornaments and decorating the home should be part of the family’s celebration. I like to incorporate the fun into dinnertime. Lay out a large sheet or white tablecloth and fabric markets and create a holiday keepsake together that you can launder, save and place on the table year after year.

Old Tradition: Gift-Giving Greed

New Twist: While young children may not understand the concept of a budget, most kids have been exposed to the notion of sharing. Let them know that a budget means that there will be something for everyone. Invite them to help you wrap a gift for another family member or give them opportunities to make gifts for others. Chances are, they’ll be so caught up in the excitement about giving their gifts that they won’t be counting how many they received themselves.

Holiday Casserole Dish Giveaway

One lucky reader will win an assortment of Libby’s Vegetables and a Mayfair & Jackson Covered Casserole Dish with Rack. Simply leave a comment telling us how you plan to save money this holiday season.

Receive additional entries:

  1. Subscribing to our mailing list/RSS feed and let us know in a separate comment
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  4. Stumble this post and let us know in a separate comment
  5. Give us some linky love. Either link back to the main Christmas Giveaway Extravaganza post and include our button in that post or on your sidebar, or link to the individual giveaways you choose to enter.

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Let us know if you are already a subscriber to secure your additional entry.

Don’t have a blog? No worries. You can still leave a comment to be entered. Subscribe for email updates of the next giveaway.

Deadline to enter giveaways will be closed Monday, December 1 at 11:59pm central time. Be sure to include a valid email address. Winner will be randomly chosen via random.org and will be notified via email and announced on this post. If winner does not claim prize within 5 days of being contacted they will forfeit their prize to alternate winner who will be drawn at random.

You can find all the Christmas Giveaway prizes listed here.

Later this week, we will share some fun recipes using Libby’s vegetables and all that leftover turkey!

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There Are 238 Responses So Far. »

  1. #1 Lorri S on November 22, 2008:

    How I plan on saving money this year-I plan on doing most of our shopping online and we won’t be traveling this year either.

  2. #2 marleen davis on November 23, 2008:

    I plan on going to a friends to dine instead of cooking for everyone this year.

  3. #3 Kelly R on November 23, 2008:

    I will be saving money many ways this holiday season. Getting bread at the bread store instead of the grocery will let me make great homemade stuffing and enjoy bread that is still great, but much more inexpensive. My family and I will be making hard candy and other sweets to give as gifts. Great site and blog!

  4. #4 Kelly R on November 23, 2008:

    I also subscribed to this site. I enjoy looking through all the recipes and ideas.
    manelook at yahoo dot com

  5. #5 Rebecca Graham on November 23, 2008:

    I plan on saving on Christmas dinner by having a pot luck where I will only have to cook one dish. I use grocery coupons for the things I normally buy to save money.

  6. #6 Lori Downs on November 23, 2008:

    the adults in my family are drawing names so we only have to get one present !

  7. #7 Julie Donahue on November 23, 2008:

    I’ve been fortunate to win many of our Christmas gifts! That’s a great way to save money!

  8. #8 Julie Donahue on November 23, 2008:

    I added your button to my “Holiday Parties” scroll bar…but I think the code in the box above is missing something. it ends with .jpg”, I think you need the following:
    />
    to complete it.
    (No, I’m not a blog expert. I’ve just posted a few buttons lately! :)

  9. #9 Julie Donahue on November 23, 2008:

    I stumbled. :)

  10. #10 Lisa L. on November 23, 2008:

    Too easy…Just me & my son so we don’t have to go all out on a giant dinner
    and that will save $

  11. #11 Marilyn Wons on November 23, 2008:

    I do and will continue to buy groceries and needed items with coupons and when they are on sale!

  12. #12 Susan on November 23, 2008:

    I plan on using A TON of coupons and matching them up with the sales!

  13. #13 Susan on November 23, 2008:

    suscribed to your RSS feed!

  14. #14 Autumn H. on November 23, 2008:

    giving homemade gifts or candy baskets, ect

    autumn398 (at) yahoo.com

  15. #15 David Bertolo on November 23, 2008:

    I plan on making all my purchases online.

  16. #16 Carol on November 23, 2008:

    I’m not doing any shopping at all.

  17. #17 susan varney on November 23, 2008:

    during these hard economic times i’m giving less gifts than usual

  18. #18 Deborah R on November 23, 2008:

    Things really are tight this year, and since we’ve been on a strict budget for a couple of years, it was hard to find a way to cut back without being mean or feeling bad. What we came up with was to eliminate sending Christmas cards and taking half that money to put into our budget and half to donate to a local church that’s helping local families for Christmas. We’ve discussed this with everyone we exchange cards with, so there’s no hurt feelings, and some folks have said they’re going to do the same.

  19. #19 Susan on November 23, 2008:

    My husband and I will not be giving each other gifts this year. It’s kinda sad, but neccesary.

  20. #20 adrienne Gordon on November 23, 2008:

    we decided to not give everyone a gift, but taht each family member is responsible for one other family member.

  21. #21 Kathy Scott on November 23, 2008:

    I am entering contest in hopes to win prizes as gifts.

  22. #22 Vickie on November 23, 2008:

    What a great giveaway!!!

  23. #23 Kristi C on November 23, 2008:

    I am planning on saving money this year by shopping sales, using coupons, and cutting back on the number of gifts being given.

  24. #24 Deborah Wellenstein on November 23, 2008:

    Groceries: Coupons and sales.
    Presents: Shop the sales!
    Thank you!

  25. #25 Shirley Hodge on November 23, 2008:

    It may seem like a cop out and I still love to shop but I know myself and my inability to stick to a budget so I have decided that I will use my 73 years as an excuse and give everyone of my children and my grandchildren checks. Not only will I be able to curb my spending on unplanned purchases which are usually my downfall when I see something I just know so-and-so would love even though I have already gotten their gift but I will set amounts and stick to it and best of all no wrapping which I hate with a passion.

  26. #26 Andrea Lawyer on November 23, 2008:

    My money saving tips this year include conversing with the family and agreeing on going light as well as shopping online when shipping is free therefore saving bc I didn’t have to go to the store or spend any gas. Good results so far this year AND I am almost done which is great in and of itself.

  27. #27 Tari Lawson on November 23, 2008:

    We are cutting some of the people off our gift giving list and others we are reducing the amount we spend on their gifts (so I am big time bargain shopping….smile).

  28. #28 Carol G on November 23, 2008:

    Unfortunately, saving will be very easy this year since there have been major bills which take precedence over gifts and decorations. So everything will be personal service and reuse of what we have rather than buying anything much new.

  29. #29 Kim H. on November 23, 2008:

    I’m doing a lot of downsizing this year. With one of us out of work for the last three years, it seems that every year is one more downsize.

    I now only send Christmas cards to those who I rarely see. It’s my time to catch up with things in both our lives.

    For small ‘I appreciate you’ type gifts, I’m making soaps and other little craft items. It’s much cheaper and better quality than store bought $5.00 gifts.

  30. #30 Jill Miller on November 23, 2008:

    I’ve never been a big spender, but I’m still cutting back in several ways. I’m only sending Christmas cards to far-away friends & family. I’m not buying any additional Christmas decorations. I’m going to use up all of my “leftover” wrapping paper before buying any more. If I have to ship gifts to anyone, they are getting a gift card (mailed inside their Christmas card) to save on shipping costs. And since my husband and I are going to Miami in December, that’s going to be our “present” to each other. Hopefully all of these things will add up!

  31. #31 Kimberly B on November 23, 2008:

    Sales and downsizing. Also making some gifts this year too. Like photo collages and scrapbooking books with letters from the children for the grandparents.
    Thanx for the contest.

  32. #32 Karen Gonyea on November 23, 2008:

    Gotta shop clearance :)

  33. #33 Paula H on November 23, 2008:

    Last year we decided to try to bring back meaning to Christmas gift. We encouraged our kids to make presents. We also searched the local thrift shops for the perfect gifts. We were suprised at how much the kids loved it and how much different family members really liked their gifts. We spent a small fraction of what we would normally spend. We are doing the same thing this year. An example is that I found for my Mom, an old Precious Moment figuirine that she doesn’t have. It’s one of the first ones made. She collects them so I know that she will love it.

  34. #34 Laurie on November 23, 2008:

    I am trying to stay on budget. This year my sisters and I are not exchanging presents.

  35. #35 Shannon B. on November 23, 2008:

    I plan on doing most of my holiday shopping on line, saving us gas and getting extremely good deals on shipping. I also plan on making some of our Christmas gifts to give to others by baking different sweet breads, cookies, and treats.

  36. #36 Susan C on November 23, 2008:

    I belong to a gleaners group-I save big bucks on produce and canned goods!
    smchester at gmail dot com

  37. #37 Julie Moe on November 23, 2008:

    I buy used toys for my kids

  38. #38 Patricia Treskovich on November 23, 2008:

    I subscribed

  39. #39 heidi on November 23, 2008:

    use as many discount coupons as i can find

  40. #40 tracy davis on November 23, 2008:

    must buy only those things on sale.

  41. #41 Shilo Beedy on November 23, 2008:

    I plan on limiting on what I buy for my kids. Any contest I won this year is being used as gifts for my family members. I plan on buying board games and other things that I think will be played with for a longer length of time. I’m going to shop online to find the best deals and look for the free shipping. Plus I plan on reading reviews of products to make sure it will be worth getting. I will also stick to a set budget for both of my kids.

  42. #42 veronica sandberg on November 23, 2008:

    plan and shop sales

  43. #43 Bonnie Capuano on November 23, 2008:

    I’ll be saving money by making Christmas breads and giving them out. Everyone loves them and it does save time and money. No mall either!!!! Yippy

  44. #44 Stephanie V on November 23, 2008:

    We are spliting up the cooking duties this year so it is potluck style.

  45. #45 Jana on November 23, 2008:

    I’m making apple pies out of apples instead of buying apple pie filling. :)

  46. #46 Erin Walsh on November 23, 2008:

    Our gift purchases will be more modest than normal, I’ve already cut back on our grocery budget and we are conserving electricity and gas as much as possible.

  47. #47 Erin Walsh on November 23, 2008:

    I’m also a newsletter subscriber. Thanks!

  48. #48 Kayte Watts on November 23, 2008:

    We drew names instead of getting everyone a gift.

  49. #49 Catherine KingChuparkoff on November 23, 2008:

    We are ordering the basics from publix and then everyone will contribute with a dish and beverage.

  50. #50 Ronni Fox on November 23, 2008:

    I give home-made cookie mixes in glass jars.

  51. #51 GALENA PENROD on November 23, 2008:

    i buy every thing on sale an i start buying in january started last january for this christmas an not only do i want things on sale but i use coupons and i want the retailers to practicaly pay me to take things

  52. #52 Denise B. on November 23, 2008:

    Doing what we always do, only buy on sale, with a coupon, and keep it to a minimal.

  53. #53 Erica C. on November 23, 2008:

    very nice! I’m going to buy sale items in bulk!

  54. #54 ellen cunningham on November 23, 2008:

    I try to save move during the holidays by starting gift buying the day after Christmas. I also start buying ingredients for the Christmas party goodies early when they are on sale. Thanks for the chance.

  55. #55 ellen cunningham on November 23, 2008:

    I am a subscriber via email. Thanks

  56. #56 Shelley K on November 23, 2008:

    We are planning on spending less on gifts this year.

  57. #57 Jeffrey W on November 23, 2008:

    To save money, we will not be traveling to the East coast to visit family this year.

  58. #58 Jeffrey W on November 23, 2008:

    I am a subscriber

  59. #59 Mia J. on November 23, 2008:

    We will be staying home this holiday and are sticking to a strict budget.

  60. #60 judy brittle on November 23, 2008:

    That is an easy question because we have no money to spend this year. My husband has been out of work so I’ve been entering contests and getting all the freebies I could find to at least give my grandkids some gifts. Thank goodness my daughter is paying for my internet. Thank you for this wonderful giveaway!

  61. #61 judy brittle on November 23, 2008:

    I’m a subscriber.

  62. #62 Melanie Lee on November 23, 2008:

    I am really going to save this year because we are doing a Secret Santa. That way everyone only has one gift to buy and we have a limit of $50.00.
    The whole Christmas present thing has gotten way out of hand. Thats not the true meaning of Christmas.
    Spending time with friends and family is the best part about the holidays. Enjoying the festive atmosphere and eating lots of great homemade goodies is my favorite part of the celebration.

  63. #63 rebecca snodgrass on November 23, 2008:

    one word…coupons.

  64. #64 Jenn S. on November 23, 2008:

    We will be drawing names and buying gifts for one person, instead of 20. Will save a lot of money.

  65. #65 Melissa D on November 23, 2008:

    We will be cooking more and going out to eat much less!

    Thank you!

  66. #66 Colleen S on November 23, 2008:

    The internet has been a great resorce to comparison shop for gifts, not only do I find the best price, there are addtional product code discounts offered all the time by retailers

  67. #67 Christina on November 23, 2008:

    I plan to save money this holiday season by setting my gift budget to $100.00!

  68. #68 Christina on November 23, 2008:

    I subscribed to your feed!

  69. #69 Sunnymum on November 23, 2008:

    One of the ways we plan to save money is by cutting back on the amount of food we prepare for holiday meals. We tend to go overboard, but we really would be content with less!

  70. #70 Christina on November 23, 2008:

    I faved you on Technorati!

  71. #71 Rita A on November 23, 2008:

    We are going to a one small present idea. Only one small present to each adult in the family so we can concentrate on presents for the kids.

  72. #72 Karla on November 23, 2008:

    We are cutting way down on the gift giving since most of us are older and we are all sharing buying and cooking for the holidays.

  73. #73 CATHI RUSHING on November 23, 2008:

    Eating out less will help

  74. #74 Dominique W on November 23, 2008:

    I subscribed

  75. #75 christopher h on November 23, 2008:

    setting a budget and sticking to it

  76. #76 Cynthya on November 23, 2008:

    We are cutting out most gifts, not buying a Christmas tree and staying home rather than visiting family.

  77. #77 Pam on November 23, 2008:

    I’m also saving money by shopping early and catching online sales, with free shipping. My family members and I are also trading names, so that we buy one present, instead of so many for everyone.

  78. #78 Pam on November 23, 2008:

    I subscribe.

  79. #79 Lmay on November 24, 2008:

    I’m buying gift cards on Ebay for less than the value price.

  80. #80 Jen on November 24, 2008:

    we already started! we burn wood in our woodstove and turn the heat in the house down so we dont use our oil or electric to run the fans, it saves us a bundle!!!

    jennifer.lleras@gmail.com

  81. #81 Karen Gonyea on November 24, 2008:

    Clearance – especially on line is where I find most of my deals :)

    ktgonyea at gmail.com

  82. #82 Brandlyn on November 24, 2008:

    We decided to pick names out of a hat this year because our families our so big. We usually buy everyone something but money is tight this year so we only have to buy for the person we draw.

  83. #83 Tony Garcia on November 24, 2008:

    We ask for a discount if we pay cash. Most stores would give a discound so that they don’t have to pay credit card comany a fee for useing cards.

  84. #84 Ronda Garnett on November 24, 2008:

    We stopped exchanging gifts several years ago and it has really been a great money saver and hoilday stress reducer. I also use coupons for the dinner ingredients and everyone brings a dish to share.

  85. #85 Kate on November 24, 2008:

    I am using coupons and hitting sales. I already got the Turkey for Thansgiving for free thanks to a coupon.

  86. #86 TiffanyO on November 24, 2008:

    We’re giving each other “experiences” instead of gifts this year…

  87. #87 Jennifer B. on November 24, 2008:

    We will be doing a lot of cooking from scratch. First and foremost we are shopping the advertisements and using coupons.

  88. #88 Jennifer B. on November 24, 2008:

    I subscribed.

  89. #89 Kasey P on November 24, 2008:

    We’ve decided that since there are so many adults that we are doing kind of an exchange type of thing and we’ve all drawn names so only have to pick one and buy one gift. So everyone gets something.

  90. #90 Valerie Mabrey on November 24, 2008:

    doing more free things like games and wii and not shopping as much

  91. #91 Karla on November 24, 2008:

    I plan on not carring my credit cards with me so I can not use them.

  92. #92 Terri L on November 24, 2008:

    We will be buying less gifts.

  93. #93 Brooke Allen on November 24, 2008:

    We’ll probably do a lot of shopping on Black Friday. Last year dh lost his job right before Christmas, so I only ended up spending $20 in gifts total. This year he’s working, so we’ll actually be doing better this year. We will definitely be sticking on a budget and we always pay cash for everything.

  94. #94 Brenda on November 25, 2008:

    How I plan on saving money this year is
    HOMEMADE GIFTS! More than saving money they have that extra kick of love and it’s so fun when you
    make presents with closest friends and family.

  95. #95 Terra Heck on November 25, 2008:

    I am only buying items that are on sale and I start my shopping early. I also let the kids make items to give.

  96. #96 Karla on November 25, 2008:

    My mom and I are sharing the gift giving and cost.

  97. #97 Patricia Treskovich on November 25, 2008:

    We will have more of a potluck meal for the holiday with family. so no one spends all the money for the meal.

  98. #98 Linda on November 25, 2008:

    I could sure use this nice casserole dish

  99. #99 Lipstick to Crayons: Resource for hip and stylish moms on November 25, 2008:

    [...] DVD Game GiveawayLinda (0 comments.) on Hannah Montana DVD Game GiveawayLinda (0 comments.) on Holiday Entertaining On A Budget- Covered Casserole Dish and Rack GiveawayLinda Grieser (0 comments.) on Shrek The Halls DVD Giveaway © Copyright Lipstick to [...]

  100. #100 Melinda on November 25, 2008:

    I plan to save money by turning the water heater temerature down, and using the toaster oven instead of the big oven, so save on heating costs!

  101. #101 sarah on November 25, 2008:

    we’re putting a cap on how much everyone can spend on gifts this year!

  102. #102 Gloria S on November 25, 2008:

    by using coupons

  103. #103 Clifton Wade on November 25, 2008:

    I am in construction and business is really slow – and my wife is trying to get disablility so money is really tight – so we will have to buy only sale’s items. Thank you for this great contest and prize!

  104. #104 Shaymaa on November 25, 2008:

    Only buy sale items.

  105. #105 Sandra Melnick on November 25, 2008:

    A lot more pot luck dinners, rather than going out to eat.

  106. #106 Sandra Melnick on November 25, 2008:

    A lot more pot luck dinners, rather than going out to eat.

  107. #107 Sandra Melnick on November 25, 2008:

    A lot more pot luck dinners, rather than going out to eat.

  108. #108 Courtney S on November 25, 2008:

    I make sure to use coupons and watch the sales papers. I also stock up on holiday gifts year-round.

  109. #109 carol lewis on November 25, 2008:

    Husband and I shop for everything in one trip and I cook fron scratch.

  110. #110 Pat on November 25, 2008:

    We’re saving money at our house by purchasing everything on sale and using coupons besides. What matters is being together and not really the food. Thanks for the contest. Best wishes to you and all who enter for a happy Thanksgiving.

  111. #111 zmama on November 25, 2008:

    We’ll be staying home this holiday!! Hopefully making a yummy casserole ;)

  112. #112 ky2here on November 25, 2008:

    I will dumpster dive and scam foodbanks.

  113. #113 beth shepherd on November 25, 2008:

    I like to use coupons and shop the sales for all my gifts. Thank you!
    tatertot374@sbcglobal.net

  114. #114 Christine Viscomi on November 25, 2008:

    doing potluck

  115. #115 A Casson on November 25, 2008:

    Try to use more food/products on sale and/or Store brands. rangrace(at)hotmail.com

  116. #116 Gloria S on November 25, 2008:

    by doing my own cooking and using coupons and shopping the sales

  117. #117 Kymberly Pray on November 26, 2008:

    Making gifts, especially utilizing upcycled materials you have around the house or that can can be purchased inexpensively, is a great way to give unique gifts that can be tailored just for the recipient instead of giving a mass produced item. There is no doubt these will be cherished for years longer, too.

  118. #118 Lisa L. on November 26, 2008:

    Hope my better off relatives send money :o )

  119. #119 Bubbagee on November 26, 2008:

    Giving smaller items than before.

  120. #120 Karla on November 26, 2008:

    I have cut up all credit cards except one. I will only carry that on me for one shopping trip and be done.

  121. #121 Tamara B. on November 26, 2008:

    I have planned to save money this holiday season by shopping on the internet. It saves gas and I can find lots of great bargains too. We also have stopped going out to eat and prepare meals at home. I love that casserole dish, thank-you for the giveaway.
    tamben7996(at)aol(dot)com

  122. #122 Vicky Boackle on November 26, 2008:

    use coupons and buy sale items.

  123. #123 Ashley on November 26, 2008:

    we will be buying store brand products and tailoring our christmas meal around the items i can get on sale throughout the month

  124. #124 Michele P on November 26, 2008:

    I do coupons and refunding, so I plan on maximizing my savings that way. Also cutting back on holiday lighting, buying what we need and stocking up during sales as well. And then after the holidays, stocking up on paper bows and other items at clearance prices for NEXT year!

    micaela6955 at msn dot com

  125. #125 Michele P on November 26, 2008:

    your christmas giveaway button is up on my blog sidebar!

    micaela6955 at msn dot com

  126. #126 Janice Wright on November 26, 2008:

    I know what I’m getting my family for Christmas. I’ve got a budget & a list & I’m sticking to it!

  127. #127 sarah on November 26, 2008:

    i will be baking homemade goodies this year and also homemade cards to give out to save money this season.

  128. #128 chastidy vernengo on November 27, 2008:

    This year we are only buying for the kids.

  129. #129 Sylvia Belle on November 27, 2008:

    We are buying everything on sale

  130. #130 Sharon Jones on November 27, 2008:

    I’m making my favorite..4 ingredient cookies…for everyone…low cost and delicious…no more big gifts
    thanks for entry

  131. #131 Sharon Jones on November 27, 2008:

    am subscribed.
    thanks again :)

  132. #132 Sharon Jones on November 27, 2008:

    am subscribed. thanks again

  133. #133 Sharon Jones on November 27, 2008:

    Have your button on my sidebar
    thanks again :)

  134. #134 Yvonne Butler on November 27, 2008:

    I have learned by experiementing that brand name grocery items can sometimes be subed with a off brand that is cheaper.Example Cherrios are over $3.00 a box. The store chain brand is $1.47. They are just as good. But not everything is like that. If you love canned soup to eat buy Campbells but if you plan to cook with it buy the cheaper brand. If your family don’t like Hamburger Helper, the off brand with a can of cream of mushroom soup is added makes a better tasting casserole. Add canned veggies can also be good. Use you imagination. Thank you for the giveaway.

  135. #135 Yvonne Butler on November 27, 2008:

    I am subscriber.

  136. #136 Stacey on November 27, 2008:

    We are cutting back a little on holiday shopping. Also, looking for good sales for the shopping we do.
    Hopefully, we’ll save a little money this way!

  137. #137 Karla on November 27, 2008:

    Another way that I feel I’m saving is to buy something people really will use instead of cute things they play with for a day and then end up in a closet somewhere.

  138. #138 Liz on November 27, 2008:

    Ideas to save at holiday time:

    1. Matching coupons with sales, some coupons avail to print on internet.

    2. Have a cookie exchange with friends.

    3. Potluck or fondue party where each family brings an item.

  139. #139 Ken Robinson on November 27, 2008:

    My coupon use has increased every year. Please accept my entry. Thank you.

  140. #140 Janet F on November 27, 2008:

    I plan to save money by being a smart shopper, shopping sales and using coupons.

    Thank you!

    janetfaye (at) gmail (dot) com

  141. #141 Janet Fricano on November 27, 2008:

    I am subscribed.

    janetfaye (at) gmail (dot) com

  142. #142 Janet Fricano on November 27, 2008:

    I twittered.

    http://twitter.com/janetfaye/status/1027420182

    janetfaye (at) gmail (dot) com

  143. #143 Christie on November 28, 2008:

    That casserole dish is just what I have been looking for.

  144. #144 Karen Gonyea on November 28, 2008:

    Great Dish :)

  145. #145 Lipstick to Crayons: Resource for hip and stylish moms on November 28, 2008:

    [...] you have not entered, hurry and sign up for our giveaway for a fabulous Covered Casserole Dish and Rack and an assortment of Libby’s vegetables. [...]

  146. #146 Patricia Wagner on November 28, 2008:

    Shopping sales, using coupons, following my list better. As watch extras that end up in cart.

  147. #147 Patricia Treskovich on November 28, 2008:

    We plan to do more potluck dinners thru the holiday season

  148. #148 Becky on November 28, 2008:

    Unlike Thanksgiving, which I totally overdid, I plan to stick to a durn food budget for christmas..no going to the store..going to the store…going to the store.

  149. #149 Rosanne Morrison on November 28, 2008:

    I’m using up what I have in my pantry to cook. I’m not going out shopping much so I am not tempted. I told my kids it will be a light Christmas. My husband works in the car business. Need I say more?

  150. #150 Beverley Justice on November 28, 2008:

    We’re eatting in more, and preparing smaller meals. Much better for the waistline…

  151. #151 Holly B on November 28, 2008:

    I plan to save by making all our holiday dinners potluck, that way just not one person foots the bill!

  152. #152 Shelley Slider on November 29, 2008:

    Using even more coupons and eating at home even more!

  153. #153 crystal on November 29, 2008:

    Little things like Stocking Stuffers are going to come from the Dollar Store:)
    Instead of buying the usual couple new christmas decorations brand new ,we went to the local thrift store ,which has 2 isles full of decorations in great condition!!

  154. #154 crystal on November 29, 2008:

    I am a happy subscriber:)

  155. #155 Carol Drury on November 29, 2008:

    great prize and thanks so much for the opportunity to win!! WE are cutting back on who we buy for, how much we spend and pretty much just getting for the kids and less then we ever have!

  156. #156 Ashley Miskel on November 29, 2008:

    I am starting to buy handmade items! It’s really saving us some money, and I have found some exceptionally talented people out there! I love etsy!

  157. #157 Rachel Robertson on November 30, 2008:

    I have bought a lot of craft kits on sale. Each of us are making each other crafts for Christmas as not only will they mean more and reflect the spirit but the fun of making them will give us lifelong memories. The first one is me trying to sew a skirt for my daughter. I sewed it all inside out. I have to admit I am all thumbs when it comes to crafts so I am switching to the glue gun. I am also going to make homemade decorations for the home and do a lot of baking. This with Christmas music will really make the Christmas bright, even if there are a lot less presents under the tree. There will be a lot more of the holiday spirit to take their place.

  158. #158 GALENA PENROD on November 30, 2008:

    make more soups and balanced main dishes

  159. #159 Karen Gonyea on November 30, 2008:

    Count me in – great prize :)

  160. #160 Patricia Treskovich on November 30, 2008:

    Draw names of adults, so you just buy 1 adult gift. Especially if you have lots of married brothers or sisters, this save a lot of stressful shopping.

  161. #161 Jillian Veit on November 30, 2008:

    I clip lots of coupons!

  162. #162 elizabeth p on November 30, 2008:

    I will be saving money this holiday season by simply cutting back and rethinking the gifts I give. Instead of buying dad another tie or watch he won’t use we will be paying a months cable bill For mom a basket of household supplies, it should last them two months! Instead of the frivolous gifts of past we are thinking practical. My grandmother is getting something she thought gone forever, Evening in Paris cologne!

  163. #163 Sharon Seneker on November 30, 2008:

    I am going to give more gifts of cash. There will be less shopping for me and all of us with the economy could use cash! Thanks!

  164. #164 Sherri B. on November 30, 2008:

    We will be doing less traveling this year. I am also making gifts whenever possible. I saved up my gift cards that I received thru the year to do my shopping with. I will get pleasure from seeing others get what they want!!!

  165. #165 pat ramey on November 30, 2008:

    we use coupons and watch the sales

  166. #166 Joy Venters on November 30, 2008:

    I’ll save money by using coupons

  167. #167 hazel hunt on November 30, 2008:

    nice!

  168. #168 Kathy Emerick on November 30, 2008:

    Well since I am no longer working I have to use my coupons at that dollar store and cut back on expenses. I would love to win and the assortments of Libby vegetables would help. Thanks for a great giveway!

  169. #169 Teresa on November 30, 2008:

    Shopping the sales
    :) Thank you for the wonderful giveaway! :)

  170. #170 tracy on November 30, 2008:

    subscriber

  171. #171 tracy on November 30, 2008:

    We are saving money buy buying early. I started Christmas shopping in July. Our family doubled this year which means more gifts to buy!

    Thank you for all the fabulous give a ways!

  172. #172 Gloria S on November 30, 2008:

    Thanks a lot

  173. #173 Gloria S on November 30, 2008:

    Thanks a lot!

  174. #174 Jennifer hedden on November 30, 2008:

    Buy christmas gifts on sale

  175. #175 Renee on November 30, 2008:

    We plan on saving money this Christmas buy penciling out our gifts (ie. budget) and then sticking to our gift list.

    rsgrandinetti@yahoo.com

  176. #176 tanya on November 30, 2008:

    We are trying to buy only one “big” gift for each kid.

  177. #177 Terry C on November 30, 2008:

    I plan on saving money by cutting back on the amount I spend and buying everything on sale if I can. Thanks!

    braaisjo at gmail dot com

  178. #178 Heather B on November 30, 2008:

    I entered alot of giveaways (like the great one you have here) throughout the year ans stashed my winnings to use some as christmas presents making things much cheaper this year!

  179. #179 Melissa Goodman on November 30, 2008:

    I am stretching my grocery budget as far as possible to also purchase ingrediants for gift giving.

  180. #180 joe s on November 30, 2008:

    less gift giving and less travel

  181. #181 Amy L on December 1, 2008:

    My in-laws are paying for my husband and I and our toddler to go visit for Christmas so we won’t need to buy a tree and can keep our presents for him down to one or two as the grandparents buy all the grandkids mega gifts!

  182. #182 Samantha Pruitt on December 1, 2008:

    eating less!

  183. #183 Kobi Hendrix on December 1, 2008:

    I’m paying only in cash and not using credit cards

  184. #184 jennifer gersch on December 1, 2008:

    coupons!

  185. #185 Tracey Byram on December 1, 2008:

    I’m saving money by lowering my thermostat, buying cheaper foods and less meat. I’m also combining car trips to save on the cost of gas.

  186. #186 Steve Scott on December 1, 2008:

    Get the Sunday paper – and price the gifts and then go shopping. Especially since the price of gas makes reasonable to shop around again.

  187. #187 Dawn Johnson on December 1, 2008:

    Sweet

  188. #188 Tammie on December 1, 2008:

    Minimize impulse spending by separating our shopping into two basic categories: wants vs. needs. We have already initiated this guideline and are amazed at the immediate effects on our credit accounts – much to some retailers dismay, we’re sure :)

  189. #189 Dan Smith on December 1, 2008:

    I plan to save money by buying everything I need on sale and looking online this year too

  190. #190 Susan Smith on December 1, 2008:

    I plan to save money this year by buying online as well as going to the stores

  191. #191 Sarah S on December 1, 2008:

    This year we are saving money by sticking to a Christmas budget set early in the year and buy buying gifts on sale or that have rebates. As crazy as it sounds I am also re-gifting and the stuff I have will help me save a bundle. We will be traveling but on air miles earned and sleeping via Couch Surfers rather than hotels. We have hosted with Couch Surfers and used couches of others in the past and it will save us about $300 in hotel expenses. :)

  192. #192 Sarah S on December 1, 2008:

    I am a subscriber (and love being one!)

  193. #193 Sarah S on December 1, 2008:

    I just twittered this! :) (princesssmall)

  194. #194 Karen Gonyea on December 1, 2008:

    Great Prize :)

  195. #195 Jennifer M on December 1, 2008:

    We are making our own gifts–marmalade and cookies.

  196. #196 Paula Harmon on December 1, 2008:

    We are buying for kids only this year. Us adults will go buy for ourselves what we want or need. What a relief.

  197. #197 Valeen N on December 1, 2008:

    I am making alot of our Christmas presents this year. It’s been kinda fun trying to figure out different ideas for each family member!

  198. #198 Betty C on December 1, 2008:

    I am doing most of my shopping online. It does double duty – I don’t have to use gas to go out and I’m not tempted by all the “sale” signs in the stores.

  199. #199 Angela Koga on December 1, 2008:

    Criags list has been great in finding toys for a fraction of the price. Who needs the boxes??

  200. #200 Betty C on December 1, 2008:

    I subscribed.

  201. #201 Christina on December 1, 2008:

    I plan to save money this holiday season by buying in bulk and making far more than the avergage amount for meals, and heating up the rest in leftovers – it works!

  202. #202 Cassandra on December 1, 2008:

    I will buy only what is needed, buy what is on sale (never pay full price), use coupons, and plan my shopping trips ahead of time.

  203. #203 Cassandra on December 1, 2008:

    Subscribed to feed.

  204. #204 kathy pease on December 1, 2008:

    looking for sales and clearances :)

  205. #205 Marion B on December 1, 2008:

    I try to do all my shopping/errands on few trips to save gas money. Plus I try to buy everything on sale.

  206. #206 Kat R on December 1, 2008:

    I am giving homemade gifts this year, I made alot of afgans over the last year and all the grown-ups are getting one!!

  207. #207 beth shepherd on December 1, 2008:

    I use coupons and shop the sales. I also like to stick to my list. Thank you
    tatertot374@sbcglobal.net

  208. #208 Renee Borders on December 1, 2008:

    There are now so many COUSINS that this year we’re going to draw names. That’ll surely save money. :)

  209. #209 Dara Nix on December 1, 2008:

    I am giving more homemade gifts this year than in previous years. My gift budget is VERY limited this year!

  210. #210 Joanna Smith on December 1, 2008:

    We are planning to save money this holidays season by drawing names instead of purchasing gifts for the entire extended family. We actually just discussed this over Thanksgiving and decided it was time we started drawing names because we were purchasing gifts for over 14 people! This will significantly lower the cost of our holiday spending and also make Christmas shopping so much more fun and less stressful! Thank you for the opportunity to enter.

  211. #211 Joanna Smith on December 1, 2008:

    I subscribed and activated my subscription. I am looking forward to receiving your emails and updates.

  212. #212 Elizabeth M. on December 1, 2008:

    We have scaled back in a huge way, even from last year. The kids will be getting just a couple of small items and then stocking stuffers. It’s the best we can do but at least we’re all together and healthy!

  213. #213 Elizabeth M. on December 1, 2008:

    I’m subscribed via email.

  214. #214 Elizabeth M. on December 1, 2008:

    I faved you on Technorati (blueviolet)

  215. #215 Elizabeth M. on December 1, 2008:

    I stumbled the giveaway (bluevioletof2)

  216. #216 Elizabeth M. on December 1, 2008:

    I have your button on my left sidebar

  217. #217 Elizabeth M. on December 1, 2008:

    I blogged the giveaway here

  218. #218 Yvonne Butler on December 1, 2008:

    I am buying only items that are on sale, gifts and groceries.

  219. #219 Yvonne Butler on December 1, 2008:

    I am a subscriber

  220. #220 Susan P on December 1, 2008:

    please enter me thank you

  221. #221 DAVID BREWSTER on December 1, 2008:

    We are staying at home this year.

  222. #222 A Casson on December 1, 2008:

    Freeze all the xtra foods at the Holidays and shop for sales at the stores

  223. #223 Helen on December 1, 2008:

    We’re taking our lunch, shopping according to grocery store ads/coupons and aren’t eating out very often.

  224. #224 Jennifer Schroeder on December 1, 2008:

    I’m doing A LOT of bargain shopping this year. I am really putting a lot of effort into finding the best deals for the money.

  225. #225 Jay French on December 1, 2008:

    My Mom asked for a casserole dish for Christmas this year. To economize, I’m trying to win one…

  226. #226 Donna K on December 1, 2008:

    I am looking for sales.

  227. #227 Donna K on December 1, 2008:

    I subscribed.

  228. #228 Donna K on December 1, 2008:

    I put your Christmas button on my blog.

  229. #229 Kaitlyn Strycker on December 1, 2008:

    Everything on sale, and go for the gifts that really mean something. Also, generic food :)

  230. #230 Heather C on December 1, 2008:

    I’ve already started! I shopped Black Friday.
    I’ll probably hold back on giving gifts to friends and just bake for them instead.

  231. #231 kathleen yohanna on December 1, 2008:

    I plan to use ALL the leftovers in pot pies and soups in order to stretch my dollar and not waste anything.

  232. #232 Beeb Ashcroft on December 2, 2008:

    What a great giveaway! I need a new casserole dish, and Libby makes great stuff!

    I plan to save money this holiday season by using coupons. It has made an amazing difference in my life and budget this year!

  233. #233 Gianna on December 2, 2008:

    Watch sales, use coupons and stock up on super cheap items I always use :)

  234. #234 Lily Kwan on December 2, 2008:

    I plan to save money this holiday season by cutting back on driving.

  235. #235 Lily Kwan on December 2, 2008:

    I subscribed to your mailing list.

  236. #236 Lisa Murphy on December 13, 2008:

    love it.

  237. #237 tricia on December 17, 2008:

    I have been saving money by using shopping forums to find the great deals and coupon codes

  238. #238 tricia on December 17, 2008:

    subscribed


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