A master family Holiday calendar where all family members can make note of their holiday activities – from the first Holiday marketplace shopping excursion to the New Year’s Day pork and kraut dinner – is a must.  If there are conflicts, discuss them early and develop a solution.

Jennifer Jolly, USA TODAY

Want to score huge deals this Black Friday and Cyber Monday? Well you're not alone, and you can bet that whatever stores you're planning on hitting will be filled with like-minded shoppers. It's a war zone out there, and if you want to emerge victorious you'll need to use the ultimate bargain-finding secret weapon: your beloved smartphone and a suite of powerful apps that will leave your bank account healthy and your Christmas list conquered.

SHOPPING APPS ARE NOT ONE SIZE FITS ALL

In November I am sharing a few of my favorite things with you. I hope they become your favorites too!

I love Pinterest. I have to admit that I was hesitant to jump on the Pinterest bandwagon but now I’m as addicted as the next person. I am a firm believer in not reinventing the wheel and Pinterest let’s me explore everyone else's best ideas. From inspiring quotes to delicious dinners to glorious closets, Pinterest lets me see the world from the comfort of my computer. You can see my Pinterest boards at www.pinterest.com/awillis506 . What’s the best thing you’ve discovered on Pinterest?