22 days until Thanksgiving

Shop early -- don't wait until the last minute. You spend more money when you're stressed and in a hurry.

Spread the cost over a few weeks. Look for sales now on nonperishable items such as flour, coffee, canned pumpkin and aluminum foil.

One week in advance, buy the frozen turkey and longer-lasting produce, such as potatoes, onions and yams.

Two or three days before the holiday (stay out of the store the night before) make a trip for perishable items such as lettuce, cream and ice. -- Scripps Howard News Service