Money Mantra Number 10: The Best Things In Life Are Free

Just when the holiday gift giving season is draining your wallet faster than you can say "Ho, ho, ho", pause and remember that the best things in life are free. Give the present of presence. Put down the Blackberry and really cuddle with a loved one. Giggle about your day. Play Go Fish ten times in a row. Set aside fifteen minutes to call an old friend. Take an early morning walk around the block with your family and just talk and listen. Write down a list of funny holiday memories and put them on your fridge. Your presence is a gift both to yourself and others. No strings attached. No fancy wrapping required. No hefty price tag. The perfect present is presence.

Favorite Things: Pamper Yourself

In this busy holiday season, don't forget to take some time to relax and enjoy. Surround yourself with a little luxury. The bath products from Flourish Bath + Body may be just what you need to pamper yourself a bit without breaking the bank. This I know for sure -- the Blood Orange Lip Balm or the Brown Sugar Body Scrub would be welcome in my stocking. What's your favorite scent?

Favorite Things: Fun Favors from Frecklebox.com

I was excited to find another fun source for personalized gifts for kids (and the kids at heart who know special little people). Check out Frecklebox.com. The metal lunchboxes are to die for. Hey, you're never too old for a stylish carrier for your PB&J. 10% off your purchase with the code TP10.

Cheap and Cheerful Challenge -- December: A Free Stocking Stuffer

For many years, a family tradition has been to write a letter to each member of the family to place in their Christmas stocking. These lovely notes share memories from the year and remind the reader that he or she is loved and cherished. I challenge you to write a stocking note (or two or three or more) this year. It's free and just takes a few minutes. But, believe me, the notes are priceless. So grab a card, grab a coffee, grab a moment to yourself and put your love into written form.

Cheap and Cheerful wants to know: What "free" gifts are a part of your family's traditions and rituals?

Cheap and Cheerful Chatter: Cyber Monday -- Boom or Bust?

Snag any good deals today? I was disappointed at what I saw but maybe I was missing something. Please share with the class.

Cheap and Cheerful Chatter: Black Friday -- To Shop or Not To Shop?

Are you hitting the stores on Friday? Why? Or why not? Share your thoughts here. If you go, what is your strategy? If you don't go, do you shop online on Friday? We'd love to hear what our readers are doing this year. Happy Thanksgiving!

Deal of the Day: Land's End Fine Gauge Cotton Sweaters

Land's End is known for quality and value. And right now, you can get some of their famous cotton sweaters for under $30. This women's v-neck style is super cute and under $25!

Land's End is also spotlighting a daily St. Nick's pick; I have been watching the site daily and the deals are amazing. Add on free shipping with no minimum purchase -- all just a click away. That's my kind of shopping!