Despite the topic of my last post, Christmas Eve is only 5 months from today! It's hard to think of Christmas when you feel more like melting Frosty than Herbie the Elf (Yes, I know I mixed Christmas specials), but spreading out your planning and preparation can really come in handy.

So, here's what to keep in mind this month:

• Take another look at your budget to make sure it's accurate. Are the amounts budgeted realistic? Is your saving going as planned?
• The next month is a big time for vacations. As you travel, consider picking up unique presents from the places you visit. I've found some of my favorite gifts during vacation visits to boutiques, museum gift stores, and craft shows. Make sure you keep a list of what you've bought and have a designated place to store gifts.
• If you are making gifts, schedule in a few crafting days. It's far more pleasant to embroider while seated on a lawn chair in the breezy shade than to do so at 3 a.m. the night before it HAS to be finished.
• Finally, take some time thinking about how and where you want to celebrate this year. What events, decorations, and traditions are most important to you? Is there something new you'd like to try (perhaps some things you tucked away in yuor idea file last year)? Making a plan is the first step on the road to a successful and low-stress celebration.