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Community Corner

'App'y Holidays

These iPhone and Android apps will be your favorite holiday helpers.

The holidays are here and, no matter how you celebrate, it's a busy time of year for most Americans, and a stressful one, too. So if you're one of the millions of people who gets overwhelmed just thinking about presents, pies and parties, fear not. We've compiled a list of smartphone applications that will help you ease the stress of the holidays and stay organized.

ShopAdvisor: is by far the most notorious shopping day of the year, and most people are willing to forego a post-Thanksgiving nap and leftovers to snag a deal on the items on their Christmas lists. But, thanks to ShopAdvisor, you won’t have to battle any coupon crazy shoppers to get the best deals. The app allows you to build a detailed list of all the gifts on your list and specify the price range you’re looking for. When one of the items goes on sale locally or online, you’ll be notified of the deal, as long as it fits in your price range. The app will also provide you with product reviews, so you can hear from other customers before you buy.  Android users: Check out Google Shopper.

GiftPlan: From January through October, I can name plenty of gift ideas for anyone on my list. But something about the excitement of the holidays and the cold weather must knock my memory out, because I always find myself grappling with gift ideas in the weeks leading up to Christmas. If you’re like me, then GiftPlan is the perfect solution. The app lets you create profiles for family and friends where you can log their personal interests and record gift ideas and noteworthy dates, like birthdays and anniversaries. Although the app is especially helpful for keeping your holiday gift ideas straight, it’s a pretty helpful tool all year long, and it guarantees that next Christmas you’ll be everyone’s favorite gift giver. Android Users: Check out Gift Shopper Pro.

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Holiday Cards: It’s always nice to receive holiday cards and letters, but in the midst of holiday hubbub, sometimes it’s difficult to find the time to sit down and write them. Holiday Cards, by Sincerely Ink, is available for iPhone and Android phones and makes sending holiday cards a breeze. You can customize pre-made templates with your own photos and designs and include a custom message to friends and family, all from your smartphone. Once you’ve finished creating your design, you can send them via email or have them printed and sent for you to anywhere in the US, Canada, or Europe in under seven days.

For more helpful apps this holiday season, check out the holiday 'Apps' section of the iTunes store or visit the Android Market online.

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