Christmas Shopping

I have finished all of my Christmas shopping. I know it is a little early, but I sent out e-mails to people (although there are some people I didn't ask and already had ideas for) and asked them to get back to me as soon as possible - some did and some didn't. I took the lists I was given and went from there. For the ones who didn't give me a list I made my best judgement.

I like to do my shopping (for Christmas and birthdays) as early as I can since I do all my shopping online and have to research the Internet for the best gift, then wait for it to get to me, then wrap it and re-mail or give it out.) This year I was supposed to be away for the majority of November and so wanted to make sure the presents got to me in October so there wouldn't be any issue.

I have tried to buy Christmas wrapping paper and cards (I love getting and receiving cards and take it seriously), but it seems this year all the stores only have Halloween items - when usually they have Christmas stuff out right after the "Back to School" sales. Most of my presents have to be mailed to friends and family in the US, Europe and Iraq and so I want to make sure I have everything mailed on time so the boxes get to their destination on-time and for a low postal rate.