Tips on how to save time and money shopping for the Christmas holidays

With 25 days until Christmas, there's little time left and so much to do. Even though I have been shopping for months, I still am no where near done, so it's time to buckle down.

Here are some tips so we can get our shopping under control.

• Do not take the kids shopping. It slows you down and everyone gets aggravated so why put yourself through the agony?
• Shop online today, Cyber Monday, for anything on your list while it's cheaper.
• Always research items online for the best price, even if you plan to purchase in the store.
• Beware of buying gift cards. They can lose value. They can also charge service fees. 
• Zhu Zhu pets are hot for the little ones this year, although I haven't figured out why. So if you see them and need them, don't delay the purchase. 
• Netbooks are hot this year. These are cute computers, great for Tweens.
• Shred Sleds are hot for the older kids
•  Gifts from the heart are popular - homemade gifts, gifts from the kitchen, are great to give this year with the downturn of the economy.
• Take pictures to share. Kids grow fast and everyone loves pictures.

A panel of moms have already shared their tips. I hope you will check out the Staples holiday widget in my sidebar.

Learn about "Share Tips for Saving Time & Money: You Could Win $100 Staples Gift Card! (Blogging Contest)" on Twittermoms.

I hope you get some useful tips and have a wonderful holiday.

Full Disclosure: I may get one of these prizes for posting this blog. This is my honest opinion.
• The first 50 bloggers to post on this topic, which also include the Staples widget, will get a $25 Staples Gift Card to use at the Staples store.
• Ten randomly selected bloggers will receive a $100 Staples Gift Card to use at the Staples store.