I know you don't want to hear this, but Christmas Eve is nine months from today!

I want you to be relaxed and ready when Christmas Eve rolls around. The Christmas Countdown will keep you on track to achieve that goal.

• As you travel for spring break or business, think about picking up small unique gifts from local shops.
• Consider picking up gifts at season ending sales on winter merchandise.  I got m fireplace set at 75% off because it was late March. You can also get good deals on winter clothes and sporting goods.
• If you like to make gifts, now is a great time to start thinking about what you'll make. Some things take a long time or are easier to make seasonally. For example, if you want to give folks homemade strawberry jam, you probably shouldn't plan on starting in October! Rainy spring and summer days are a great time to craft.
• Begin chatting with your loved ones about where you plan to spend the holidays.  The sooner you decide, the sooner you can start watching for airline sales.  Also, if you'll be hosting, you can pick up things you need for entertaining over a longer period of time.
• Keep saving for your holiday expenses,  Saving a little each week is far easier than trying to save large amounts beginning in the fall. Buying things off season can let you get more bang for your buck! For example, you may be able to pick up new or like new Christmas decorations at a yard sale or thrift store for a fraction of the price, especially during the summer.
• Keep building and updating your Christmas card list!