This year, for the first time, I took advantage of Cyber Monday to get a few gifts knocked off my list. The sales on things I was looking at for family and friends weren't incredible, but the 10 percent off here or free shipping there certainly helped.

What also helped me out this year was going as simple as possible when it comes to gift giving. Instead of buying my sister and brother-in-law individual gifts, I proposed that my husband and I get them one gift, and they get us one, with a $30 limit. 

We also instigated a Yankee swap with my inlaws this year, so we don't end up with a ton of gifts that we really don't need. So it'll be a pared-down holiday for us.

The best part of holiday giving, I think, is watching a loved one's reaction when they open their gift. Especially if I put a lot of thought into what they'd like. Mostly, Christmas is a great excuse to get together with loved ones, so I'm anticipating the coming holiday weekend.

What about you? Are you still scrambling to get gifts purchased or made, or have you been done for weeks? Tell  us in the comments.