Christmas Eve is 8 months from today! Here are some things you can do now to help you be better prepared in December.

Remember, our goal is that you have a low-stress December so that you are able to enjoy the holidays. Ideally, by Christmas Eve, you spend the day playing in the snow before coming inside to watch a Christmas movie while drinking hot cocoa and eating Christmas cookies.

•As you travel during the spring and summer, think about picking up small unique gifts from local shops or craft fairs. I've bought some of my best presents while on business travel.

•If you like to make gifts, now is a great time to start thinking about what you'll make and to gather supplies. You can even begin your crafting.

•Spring is a time for graduations and weddings and moves. Make sure you update your Christmas card list.

•A rainy spring day is a great time to plow through your holiday file, sorting recipes, craft ideas, and decorating schemes. Keep the ones that show promise and recycle the rest so that you won't be overwhelmed when the holidays arrive.

What else can you do now to prepare?