Christmas in July & Back to School 2015– When Do YOU Start Shopping?

Today is July 25th. That means that is known by Christmas lovers (like myself) as Christmas in July! It also means that there are roughly 40 days (or so) until students and teachers across the Jersey Shore head back to school. Both events will be here before you know it, so when do YOU start Christmas and "Back to School" shopping?

During that stretch of rainy days this month, I noticed the mall parking lot was pretty packed. So is everyone OK with school shopping in July? When do YOU start school shopping for your family?

I always remember that when you saw the first back to school display in the store, it was a sobering reminder that summer days and nights were limited. With national advertising campaigns and back to school dates varying across the country, it seems like the back to school displays are up in some department stores before our students even take their last final exam. So when does your family start shopping? Let me know.

And while we're at it: I am the type of person who is obsessed with all things Christmas. I love the music, the decorations, the festivities, and everything else that goes along with the holiday.

I ENJOY going to the mall during the rush of the holiday season. However, I usually wind up waiting until the last minute to start my shopping. With Christmas in July, I am realizing that a lot of people actually shop for Christmas throughout the year. If you're in the store and you see something, you pick it up for the upcoming holiday season. I'd imagine that's easier on your wallet, but it requires planning and organization. That's tough for me.

So: how soon is too soon to start shopping for these occasions each year?