There is no shortage of exciting things going on as the holiday season gets into full swing.  From shopping and baking to planning for fun get-togethers, you have one exciting, yet full, calendar.  But with a little pre-planning, you can get ahead this holiday season.

 Try these tips to help you on your way:

• Shopping lists:  Get a start on your shopping list by jotting down notes as you hear friends and family mention things that might make for a great gift.  Find that one thing they’ve been looking for forever or give them something you know they need just by being a little more observant.
• Get a jump on your holiday card list:  Purchase your holiday cards early in order to get the best selection and to avoid holiday shipping delays.
• Make a list and check it twice:  With your holiday cards in-hand, all you need to do is give your address book a quick update before signing, addressing, and popping them in the mail (or bundle them and wait until December 10th, if you want to send a little closer to the holidays.)
• Smile for the camera:  The holiday season is the perfect time to take a family photo, and there’s no better way to share warm wishes than with those beautiful smiles.  Be sure to check out the wide selection of photo cards online.
• Bake and freeze:  Lots of holiday cookie recipes can be made in advance and frozen so that you always have a tray of treats to take to a get-together.  Consider starting a cookie exchange with a group of friends to get the most variety out of your bulk-baking.
• Master calendar:  Now’s a great time to create your master calendar for the holiday season.  Don’t forget to include all holiday parties (marking which ones you’ll need gifts for), gift shopping lists, and a plan for set up, cleaning, and cooking for all your get-togethers.