Survive the shopping season with your budget intact  McClatchy
Newspapers Published Tuesday, November 25, 2008  RALEIGH, N.C.
-- The Christmas Countdown has begun. Black Friday is just days
away. For the next month you will be charmed, pitched and
enticed. Your emotions will be tugged upon. Eyelashes may be
batted. And that's just from retailers. There's no telling what
your loved ones may try just to ensure that their wishlists are
fulfilled.  We know about wishes. We also know that many budgets
are tight -- and even if they're not, who doesn't love a
bargain? So as an early holiday present, here are some tips that
could make the next few weeks easier on your budgets.  * Plan
ahead.  If your gift doesn't fit, is the wrong the size or
doesn't work, the recipient will be ever so grateful if you've
taken return policies into consideration.  Most stores have
30-day return policies, but find out if they're extending those
terms for the holidays. Most policies are posted on the store
receipt but if you've already