While in the supermarket tonight, the woman in front of me apologized for her coupons taking so much extra time. I said don't be silly - in fact, my mother would be standing here applauding you. I went on to say that Mom would come home from shopping, add up her coupon savings, and deduct that amount from her checking account balance, keeping a record of it in her little book. At the end of the year, that was her Christmas money.

The woman stood silent for a moment, looked at her grocery receipt and said "$16 - that's the start of next year's Christmas money!"

My dear mother, who died in 1997, would be so pleased.

By Brandy on Wednesday, November 17, 2004 - 10:18 pm:

Wow that's awesome i never thought of it like that = ) maybe i will start taking half of my total savings each time i'm in the store.

By Tunnia on Thursday, November 18, 2004 - 08:40 am:

What great idea, Ginny! Your mom was one smart lady! Isn't it nice to know that she is still able to touch people's lives through you?

By Rayanne on Thursday, November 18, 2004 - 08:45 am:

I agree, that is a wonderful idea. I think that I will start doing that too next year. Your mother will live on all around world.

By Missymelissy on Thursday, November 18, 2004 - 08:57 am:

I would never have thought of doing that - great idea. I use coupons, but not as often as I should. I will be using them more now.

By Ginny~moderator on Thursday, November 18, 2004 - 09:08 am:

Mom was also a great rebater, and her rebate checks went into her Christmas fund also.

By Angellew on Thursday, November 18, 2004 - 10:44 am:

That is the best idea!!!! Thanks Ginny!!! Actually, thanks Ginny's mom!!!

By Dawnk777 on Thursday, November 18, 2004 - 10:46 am:

Wow, that would be motivation to use more coupons!

By Trina~moderator on Thursday, November 18, 2004 - 11:12 am:

Ginny, your Mom is smiling in Heaven.