Love her or hate her- but she has some great, helpful tips. Here's some-

For many people, the four weeks before the winter holidays are among the busiest of the year. Indeed, there's a lot to get done before New Year's. This week-by-week chart includes many of the to-dos that will come up, followed by some helpful timesaving tips. Finish the tasks in a timely fashion, checking off one or more every day, and the week before Christmas won't be a mad dash to the finish line.

Week 1

• Write gift lists and organize addresses, preferably on a computer or a PDA to ensure neatness and efficiency.

• Purchase stamps, cards and wrapping supplies.

For many people, the four weeks before the winter holidays are among the busiest of the year. Indeed, there's a lot to get done before New Year's. This week-by-week chart includes many of the to-dos that will come up, followed by some helpful timesaving tips. Finish the tasks in a timely fashion, checking off one or more every day, and the week before Christmas won't be a mad dash to the finish line.

Plan a gift swap with friends to limit your total number of purchases.

• Sign, address and send holiday cards.

• Spend a few hours shopping on weekdays or after work, when stores are calmer than they are on weekends.

• Ship gifts early to guarantee on-time delivery.

• Carry your address book or PDA when you shop, since some stores will ship directly.

• Finalize travel plans. When the time comes, check in and print boarding passes at home.

Week 2

• Plan holiday menus. Order a turkey, ham or other specialty items.

• Unpack decorations, and inspect them for damaged ornaments and burned-out bulbs.

• Take an inventory of baking staples, and replace those that are running low.

• Set up a wrapping station in a low-traffic area of the house, and wrap gifts as you buy them.

• Hand out gifts and gratuities to service people.

• Buy bulk gifts, such as a case of wine, and offer bottles to neighbors, acquaintances and party hosts.

• Drop off a few festive outfits to be dry-cleaned.

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