Plan your Christmas shopping ahead

Most important: plan ahead

Now, if you've managed to talk the family and extended family into the wish list system, think about getting this started sometime during November. 

Or even earlier in the year. 

Starting early means you can take advantage of clearance sales that may happen throughout the year. 

The sooner you can get others thinking about what they may like for Christmas, the easier it will be on you. 

Make lists

If folks are not on board with writing wish lists, make up your own lists on your computer, ph or ipad of all the people you want to (or feel obligated to) buy gifts for. Now, beside each name, write any ideas you have at this time of what might be an appropriate gift for each person.

Photo credit morgueFile

Don't get caught out by waiting to do this at the last minute. 

If you're shopping online, you need to allow time for the postie to get your goods to you before the public holidays kick in. And don't forget to think about weekends, or any non-shopping days. 

You may even want to arrange a child care swap with a friend, so you can get out without the kids. 

And it's a LOT easier shopping before school lets out for the Christmas holidays....

So, plan ahead. Make lists. 

Do it now!

(It's never too early!)