New Year, New Goals

In the new year spirit, I have decided to try new things this year. Many of the ideas on this list are things I have wanted to do for a long time and have been too busy, too tired, or any other excuse I can create!

*Make homemade noodles
*Plant a garden
*Can/freeze vegetables and fruits
*Host a Christmas cookie exchange
*Read more books (at least one per month)
*Finally put together a photo album/scrapbook
*Learn to play the guitar
*Perform in a recital for my students
*Make my grandmother's yeast bread
*Volunteer more in the community
*Take my lunch to work more often
*Reconnect with old friends

I think I have a problem

Isn't admitting one has a problem the first step to recovery? Wal-Mart and other stores will be sad to see me recover since my problem is after-Christmas sales shopping!

I hate paying full price for Christmas items, especially gift wrapping materials. I always buy extra paper, bags and ribbons after Christmas and the tradition has been carried on to 2010. I now have more than enough paper and bags for the next two Christmas seasons, I'm sure.

I have also bought a few toys for next year. Toys are so expensive! They have been tucked away in a Rubbermaid tote and stored in a safe place.

My loving husband thinks I am crazy for buying toys a year in advance. I believe there is no foul in buying good toys cheap, paying with cash and storing them rather than buying toys at full price next fall. Am I wrong? Do I have a problem?!