Begin watching for “Christmas in July” sales.  I’ve seen everything from mattress stores to gift stores offer Christmas in July sales.  They will typically last anywhere from a few days to the entire month.  You’ll often be able to pick up Christmas and every day items at reduced prices.

Review your calendar for July, and budget how much you will be spending for each gifting occasion.  If you normally purchase a Christmas present for those same people, plan on purchasing the Christmas gift at the same time.  Remember to record the purchase in your book

If you are planning on having a picnic or BBQ on the 4^th of July, make sure all your non perishable food items are purchased, and put aside for the occasion.  Ask each guest to bring a food item, and your expenses will be greatly reduced.  Put the savings in the tin.

Have your older children practice their reading and make a great gift for grandparents and younger siblings.  These are also good for children or seniors in care facilities.  Simply have your child read their favorite stories and books aloud and record them.  If you read a lot, consider making recordings of the books you read as well.  Give the recordings to the recipients.

Most Kids are out of school by now.  Sort through all their school supplies and clean and save everything that can be re-used.  Put them away for next school term.  Broken crayons, stubby pencils, and nearly empty glue containers can be used for those summer art projects.  If their backpack is still good, clean it up too. The money you save when you buy school supplies in the fall can be put in the tin.