As I sit at my computer tying up loose ends of the programs for 2010 and listening to my favorite Christmas CD’s, I am reminded at how special this time of year is. The months click by so quickly; I can hardly believe that 2011 is just a couple weeks away. A couple of short articles in the newsletter I subscribe to that is written in both English and Spanish caught my eye.
I hope that the article about holiday spending is not too late to help you.  If you are completely done with your shopping, tuck this advice away for next year. The holiday season is a natural time to express love and friendship to people important to us. Although you probably have the urge to give gifts, more debt could be the result. Try these ideas to control your holiday spending:
·     Set a dollar limit on the list of gifts you would like to buy for the special people in your life.
·     Make purchases with cash. Credit cards promote impulse buying.
·     Consider preparing bread, cookies or freezer dinners.
·     Give the priceless gift of your time: visit a housebound person or volunteer at a homeless shelter or food bank. Similar options are gift certificates for child care, house cleaning and transportation to appointments.
Another article titled, “Attitude is Everything” may be just what you need to hear at this busy time of year.
There are many things in life that we cannot control, like the weather, prices at the grocery store, and how others behave. But we can control our own attitude and how we respond to others. Responding in a positive way to our children and family is an important communication skill.  Life is 10% what happens to us and 90% how we react to it!
Children are especially affected by their parents’ attitudes. To foster a positive home environment, choose your attitude. Also, be present and let your family know that you are there to listen and assist them. A positive and caring attitude will make the difference!
Feel free to stop by the Barton County Extension Office for your own copy of the Para Su Familia newsletter. 
I hope you are able to spend some quality family time in the days ahead. Here’s wishing all of you a very Merry Christmas and a happy and healthy new year!