Online shopping means figuring out on-time shipping

When faced with the prospect of long lines at the store and hours driving around finding a parking spot at the mall, many shoppers turn to the convenience of their personal computers or smartphones to shop online for holiday gifts.

Today the array of businesses who offer online retail opportunities create boundless options. It's possible to find obscure gift items that are very unique or even personalized items not readily available in stores. Online shopping enables shoppers to price-check almost immediately, comparing the costs of one retailer with another. According to eMarketer estimates, from 2010 to 2015, nearly 30 million consumers will join the ranks of online buyers.
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Have a safety plan for kids while holiday shopping

It's easy for children to get lost in big crowds. According to safety expert Alyssa Dver, founder of the Center to Prevent Lost Children, statistics indicate 90 percent of families will experience losing a child in a public place. Twenty percent have lost a child more than once. This can be traumatizing for children, with 95 percent remembering the trauma of getting lost. Establishing a safety plan with children on what to do should they get lost might help reduce time spent looking for lost kids.
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Put some 'green' in holiday plans

With the holiday season on the horizon, many people's thoughts turn to charitable giving and other altruistic efforts. Amid giving a helping hand to those who need it and donating to worthy charities, individuals can think about giving back to the planet as well.

Many people equate the holiday season with trying to do more or give more. While these efforts are well-intentioned, the "bigger is better" mantra often turns into a season of excess. From thousands of twinkling lights adorning homes to pounds of wrapping paper used on gifts, the toll the holiday season takes on the environment is substantial.
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