Every year, I start shopping for next Christmas sometimes on Dec. 26th!  By gradually accumulating things and taking advantage of sales prices, I can afford to be a better Santa but it also gives me a chance to listen to what people will innocently say they wish they had.  That's the best way to shop for people who may be a little problematic to please otherwise.  (Hint:  gift cards are a great idea and are sometimes good deals when redeemed from MyPoints or Discover card Cashback awards.)  A MERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOU ALL, IN A FEW MONTHS!