The 12 Days Of Christmas
BOSTON (CBS) - In the Christmas poem the 12 days of Christmas, there is this guy who wants to impress this gal with some very fancy gifts.
For more than 30 years, PNC Wealth Management has figured out the cost of these gifts and this year it would cost over $34,000 ($34,131) up 6% from last year.
I think I can get similar gifts for under the $34,000!
A partridge in a pear tree cost, $215. Stick a branch in flowerpot and hang the Partridge Family Christmas CD for $6.
2 Turtle Doves cost, $290. Two Dove ice cream bars, $4.
3 French Hens cost, $181. Use a French casserole and Julia Child's recipe and make Coq Au Vin. Cost, $16.
4 Calling birds comes in at $600. Calling birds are songbirds so get a copy of the National Geographic Backyard Guide to the Birds of North America. Cost, $14.
5 Golden rings cost, $750. Pick up some brass rings at Home Depot and spray paint them gold. Cost, $7.
6 Geese a-laying, $360. I have a flock in my backfield. $0 dollars if you come and chase them away. There is no market for goose eggs. Cost, $0.
7 Swans-a-swimming at $13,125. Swans are high maintenance. Consider a trip to the Boston Garden and a ride on the swan boats next spring. Parking, gas, tickets cost, $40.
8 Maids a-milking, $58; these poor women are definitely underpaid. A gallon of milk cost, $4.
9 Ladies dancing, $7,553. **See next
10 Lords a leaping, $5,508. Both the ladies and lords can be found at the Boston Ballet's "Nutcracker". Tickets are expensive so try one of the local productions for a lot less. Cost, $30.
11 Pipers piping, $2,635. That price must include buying the bagpipes and airfare from Scotland!
12 Drummers drumming, $2,854. Turn on the Rose Bowl parade on New Year's day and watch all of the bands strutting their stuff. Cost, $0.
My total: $121, a savings of over $34,010.
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You can hear Dee Lee's expert financial advice on WBZ NewsRadio 1030 each weekday at 1:55 p.m., 3:55 p.m., and 7:55 p.m.
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