By now, you should have accomplished:

• Have a holiday budget set
• Have a holiday expense spreadsheet completed
• Have at least one gift for out-of-towners purchased
• Have a plan for holiday cards
• Finish shopping for out-of-towners
• Have at least one homemade gift on your list

We've laid the groundwork for a successful holiday season, but now it's time to get down to business. Here are several more steps to work on throughout the week:

UPDATE YOUR GIFT SPREADSHEET
Now that you know who you're buying for, it's time to start filling in your spreadsheet with ideas on what you'd like to purchase. Hopefully, you'll be able to come in under budget in most cases. Get those ideas down to serve as a complete shopping list going forward. Fill in the blanks in cases where you've already purchased or made gifts. How is your budget doing so far?

For more tips, visit these links:
Top 15 Homemade Gifts Under $10
Homemade Gifts for Grandparents
Homemade Gift Ideas

WRAP ALL THE PRESENTS YOU'VE PURCHASED SO FAR
This not only helps you save time, it can help avoid spoiling surprises when kids start snooping around the house. Don't forget to complete the entire job by putting the gift tag on as well. You don't want to forget who the gift is for... and then have to unwrap to find out. Adding the gifts you've purchased to your gift spreadsheet as you go along will help.

MAIL GIFTS TO OUT OF TOWNERS
Beat the holiday rush. My mailing your gifts now, you'll ensure they get there on time. No stressing over the time crunch.

UPDATE YOUR HOLIDAY CARD LIST
An easy way to update your holiday card list is storing it in spreadsheet form right on your computer. I keep mine in Excel, and can create labels with the click of a mouse, which eliminates the time it takes to address envelopes. Are your photo cards ordered? If you have to order them, get that done this week too (Clark Color is offering a coupon code for 50% off). If you mail your cards this week, you're one step ahead of the game. We'll be asking you to get that done next week.

FOR BLACK FRIDAY/CYBER MONDAY SHOPPERS
Don't forget to check out our own resources right here on Mommysavers. Here are some tips for BF shoppers:
http://mommysavers.com/cmps_index.ph...riday-shopping
Also, shopping online is a great way to save time and money. Our Online Bargains forum is buzzing right now with spectacular deals for everyone on your list. Searching for the perfect idea? Post it there to get advice from other members.

Let us know where you stand this week... that means everyone! If you're reading this, that means you! Here's where to post:
FTJ Holiday Countdown Check-In: Week Three

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Gifts mailed on Tuesday.
Spread sheet updated & portraits made (yesterday).
Christmas cards in progress.

Fudge will be in progress week after next!

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Still need to start on cards. Planning on making cappuccino mix (for two people) soon. The homemade bread ( for at least two people) will be made the week of christmas. I have spent this week making jelly. Still need two make two more batches. Have almost all of my christmas bought. Decided to get a couple of gift cards for my kids. That will be done in two weeks. Plus will finish Christmas dinner shopping right before christmas.