The holidays are officially here, which means that you are probably busy finding the perfect gifts for those special people in your life.  I'm happy to say that my holiday shopping is already complete and the last day I plan on hitting the stores this season is on Black Friday.  (I just can't resist those amazing deals!)

So how did I finish so early?  Actually, there are two reasons I can successfully avoid the holiday shopping hustle and bustle each year...

Shop the ToysRUs Store on eBay for Low Prices and Free Shipping*

Many years ago, I used to be among the crowds of people wandering aimlessly about looking for great gifts for their loved ones.  But then, I made two changes which have allowed me to skip the frantic shopping season each year and concentrate on trimming the tree, watching beloved holiday movies and baking cookies:

1.  Buy throughout the year and make a continual holiday shopping list

I never wait to purchase holiday gifts, for I have them stashed throughout the house year round.  I find this eases the burden on my budget, for I don't have such a hunk of items to pay for at once and it also ensures my gift recipients love what they get.  If it catches my eye, then I know it's something they want or will enjoy, instead of bopping around aimlessly at the last minute to get them anything.

I also constantly jot down ideas as my friends and family say them.  Then when their birthday, anniversary or other holiday rolls around, I know exactly what to shop for.  Believe me, this little trick works, for everyone in my family agrees that I am unequivocally the best gift giver they know.

2.  Shop online for pete's sake!

I can't tell you how much online shopping has eased my troubled mind when it comes to the holidays!  With all of the amazing product reviews out there, you can usually get a pretty good idea on whether or not the item you want to purchase will be up to your standards.  Also, with wonderful online discount stores out there, like eBay, I can skip the stores entirely and still nab terrific bargains.

As a matter of fact, if you have children to shop for, you can't beat the deals, service and selection that eBay can provide.  For instance, this year they have partnered with ToysRUs to feature a ToysRUs store full of all the top brands and high quality toys we've come to expect.

If I had the chance to go on an eBay/ToysRUs shopping spree for my daughter, the following 10 toys would be sitting under our tree this year:

5.  Huffy Junior Miss Green Machine

6.  Disney's Jake and the Neverland Pirates Who Shook Hook Game

7.  Crayola Digital Light Designer

8.  Franklin Sports MLB Light Up Soccer Goal Set

9.  Imaginarium LEGO Activity Table and Chair Set in Natural

10.  Hungry Hungry Hippos Game

With a selection like this and eBay's "Buy It Now" option, you can shop 'til you drop for a fraction of the price.  If you're looking for great gift giving ideas, be sure to check out eBay's holiday gift guide.  They even make shopping incredibly easy with their brand new mobile app.  This is one-stop shopping at its finest and will insure that you can knock out your holiday shopping no matter where you are...even while standing in line at another store!  :idea:

This year, keep the holidays merry and bright by taking the hassle and headache out of your holiday shopping.  Let eBay show you how!

*Free standard shipping on all qualifying purchases of $49+