Every Thursday, I share my thoughts on Family Finances. 

This is a good weekend to pause before the holidays get too close and think about year end family finances.  To avoid waking up in mid-January with a "Christmas budget hangover", focus on shopping for gifts with either cash or debit cards.  While you’re in a generous mood, assess charitable organizations in your community who rely upon this time of the year to build a cushion that will last all year.  Work on organizing family financial records.  If your holidays will include travel, arrange for foreign currency if needed and budget beforehand to minimize your sticker shock when you return home.

Here’s a great article from CNN Money that gives a basic overview of simple steps you can take this weekend to get financially organized - Seven Year-End Tax Saving Moves.