Getting shopping done early really helps releave the stress factor. I shop for those early sales and plan throughout the year, that way my shopping is finished by Thanksgiving allowing me the time to enjoy family, friends and what the true meaning of Christmas is. Often times people that leave shopping to last minute tend to have the crabbies. I love going into stores around the holidays trying to share just a little bit of joy and extra smiles hoping that it will rub off on others and brighten their day.
Sales clerks can also get pretty testy and a little bit of sunshine goes along way.
Having a Christmas Club helps tremendously when it comes to doing the shopping. By planning throughout the year and setting aside some each week, the money is there when you need it. Less stress, no charging and a real sense of peach throughout the most meaningful Holiday of the year. I have learned to use catalogs when shopping now. If my toddler is in a bad mood or if the day is just plain horrible, I just open the catalogs and take my time reviewing what friend and family would like.