With lots of family birthdays in October, I only start to plan in earnest  for Christmas in November.  I do keep notes and buy a few presents throughout the year but November is action month.  This month has been full of lists and plans.  With a weekend on my own at the beginning of the month most presents were wrapped and ready then as the only day Mr S and I could shop together was the first Friday of the month, we made good use of our shopping trip.  This year November has not been simply preparing for Christmas but a bonus holiday too, so extra to do lists here too.  I end the month feeling pretty relaxed, December is full of events but I have done all that is realistic to be able to focus on the fun rather than the stress of the Christmas season.