The idea of shopping makes me happy. It always has. But what happens when you are on a shopping freeze? Perhaps, window shop.

Anyway, it's the holiday season. Black Friday was a few weeks back. Christmas shopping has followed suit. The stores are even more crowded than ever; bodies, sweat, and breaths all mingling. You'll never know there's inflation.

The credit card companies aren't helping matters. I have lost count of how many I have seen, popping up all over the place. Have you seen the non-financial institutions? I saw one being offered by a phone company. Every one wants a piece of the action.

I always say shopping is cheaper than a psychiatrist. — Tammy Faye Bakker.

I have hardly taken part in any of that and yet I have a shopping list. It is an essential list. I need a new phone. My old one of 4 years is acting up. Hubby needs a computer. There are people I want to gift during this holiday season.

Well, over the last few months, to control my spending, I dumped 2 of my credit cards at home. If you don't have it, you can't use it. I keep cash in my wallet. Where the money ends, the shopping stops.

So what happens to my essential shopping list? I started with the Christmas gifts. I looked through my things. Anything I purchased still in excellent condition but lying idle for months, I have converted thoughtfully into a gift.

What about my phone? Well, I am going to stroll down to the stores and see if they can fix it. If not, I'll have to get a new one.

As for hubby's computer, the local library loans out Chromebooks for 2 weeks. Every two weeks you go in and renew your loan. If cash flow is tight as I foresee it, then we'll use that service.

When cash flow is better, I know just the guy. He remodels and sells business machines at an affordable price and does better than Best Buy, Staples, and Walmart. The downside is he does not take installment payments. You pay, then you walk.

My point:

If your shopping lists overwhelm you this season and you have cash flow problems, look within first; your house, your storage, and your attic. If you find 'rare gems', repurpose them thoughtfully. Only after that should you look out.

Do not forget to categorize your shopping list into needs and wants — that way, you know exactly how you should allocate your scarce resources.

There are always more affordable options. You have to look deeper and ask questions.

Sometimes, cash only while shopping does you a lot of good.

Thanks, Jason Edmunds.

Consumerism is the reason Christmas has morphed into a hollow shopping ritual that leaves too many families with debt hangovers and an empty feeling inside. — Rachel Campos-Duffy