Will It Be a Big or Small Christmas?

November has been a roller coaster ride of emotions. The stock market hit new lows and highs within days of each other. And everyone started to talk about how "black Friday" was going to be a bust. Now just a few days later, as reports are coming in, it looks like this year is up over three percent from 2007 numbers for the day after Thanksgiving. Stores took big steps in luring in customers and it seemed to work. This same week, shortened by the holiday saw multiple days of increases in the stock market as well. Many vacation related companies like the cruise lines made gains on the low stock prices of late. As we head into December, the question is whether last weeks trend will continue or will the roller coaster hit another downswing. Only time will tell, and even the "experts" differ greatly on what to expect next which is not saying much with the track record of just the last 3 months alone. However, one thing is for certain. The bargain hunter can find some great deals right now, even in purchasing vacations. When its cold outside and there is snow on the ground depending where you live, it can be a warm feeling to get the gift of a vacation even if the vacation is a month or two out. A picture, boxed up with either the plane tickets or a brochure can bring a smile this Christmas. Just look hard to find the best deals. They are out there.