Home for the Holidays: Work at Home Mom's Holiday Survival Guide

I'm not one to jump into Christmas decorating and activities as soon as the Halloween pumpkin starts to rot, even though I notice some of my neighbors certainly do. But I will admit that I start quietly thinking about the holidays around that time. Really who doesn't, considering that Christmas music is playing in stores and the toy makers are revving up the advertising?

But my early start is really more a form of self-preservation than anything else. I begin planning for the Christmas season early because I know that when you work from home, life's pressing tasks can become entangled with all those work-related ones, making it extremely hectic come December.

But also, I like to save money. I start saving for the holidays early and, in turn, spending early. Not only can you get better deals if you shop early, but it spreads out the cost over several months.

So whether you're starting shopping, almost done or not planning on thinking about it for another month, here are a few ideas.

Gift Giving Ideas:

• WAHM Gift Guide
• Books for Work-at-Home Families
• Calendars and Organizers for Mom
• Entertainment Gifts (great for teachers too!)
• Active Toys for the Whole Family
• What to Get Dad
• Holiday Baby Gift Guide
• Toys for Preschoolers
• What Tweens Want
• Gift Ideas for Teens
• Holiday Gifts Under $30 for College Kids

_{Photo: Laureen Miles Brunelli}