Christmas Day is only four months away!  Scary, I know.  I've barely begun my shopping. (For the record, Thanksgiving is 3 months, 2 days away.)

Since our Christmas Countdown has begin, you know it's time for your task list:

• Decide on your travel plans for the holidays.  Airline capacity is shrinking almost every week and folks who wait until the last minute may find it impossible to get tickets. (I find kayak.com a good way to compare ticket prices.)  Now is also a good time to get your chosen vacation days on the work calendar.
• No matter what the pundits say, it's pretty clear that money is going to be tight this holiday season.  All the more reason to establish a realistic budget and stick to it.  As always, the budget should not assume putting expenses on the credit card unless you can pay them at the end of the month.  By budgeting now, you can be on the lookout for specials that will stretch your budget and take the time to repair decorations and the like rather than replacing them.  You may also decide to look for some part-time or temporary work to build the holiday budget.

• Begin making your lists, especially your gift and card lists.  Make sure that you've updated your card list with summer weddings.

• For folks who love the summer sun, consider shopping the end of the season clearance sales for inexpensive gifts.  You can often find great deals on beach supplies, picnic things, and summer sports equipment.  (The reverse is true as well.  I saved a bundle on my fireplace set because I bought it in late March.)