In years past the stores would bring out all the Christmas decorations, trees and specials around the first of November (at least get the halloween stuff put away first).  However last year and this year especially I've noticed Christmas stuff up right after the first of October.  Of course there were halloween decorations / costumes, etc, but overshadowing that are the Christmas offerings!

I've heard that people better not wait until the last minute to get certain items because the stores aren't bringing in large inventories as they've done in the past because they've been taking a big "hit" having to discount their merchandise just to get people in the store to buy anything.

My suggestion for this year -- because of all the layoffs, cuts in hours and lack of spending money - is to do  more "frugal" and "personal" gift giving.  For example, get out your Christmas gift list, and instead of trying to figure out how to buy those big electronic gadgets and espensive "toys" for the adults and kids, how about being practical and try the following suggestions:

* For those on your gift list that sew or do crafting, how about a sewing machine repair book - they will be thanking you all year because of the practical and useful gift.

* We all know some folks who either have lost their jobs or got their hours slashed, and would really like to do something out of their home to make extra money.  For those folks, depending on their interests and talents, think about  the "How To Make Cash From Your Crafts" book, or "Clothing Alterations as a Profitable Home Business" or "Sewing Machine Repair as a Home Business". These books would be much more meaningful than a trinket or something they don't need and really have no use for.

* If you have teens and pre-teens that want to learn how to sew or are in the process of trying to make some items, "Learn How To Sew" would be an excellent choice for them.

* For the younger children, why not invest in a book or two instead of trying to compete with those who are trying to "outspend" everybody with the electronic toys.  Books will help them more in the long term than the games!!

By being frugal and "personal" in your gift giving, I'm thinking you will have more grateful recipients than if you just go out and pick up "things".