Even though the calendar just switched to November, the countdown to Christmas is officially on.

Stores are already stocking their shelves with statues of Old St. Nick.

With Christmas is just a couple of short weeks away, some say now is the right time to get in the holiday spirit.

Spreading the Christmas cheer, starts at Gifts From the Heart.

"I have a two year old little granddaughter who came in," store owner Donna Williams said. "I couldn't wait to see her eyes when she saw the Christmas tree."

That holiday happiness came one week early.

Because Halloween fell on a weekend, Williams decided Santa and her decorations needed to make an early appearance. "We have sold a lot of Christmas this week," she said. "I was really even happy we did it."

Happiness is a message some are hearing loud and clear.

DJs at Midwest Family Radio are already in the holiday spirit.

"All of your favorite Christmas music from the old stuff and some fun artist were playing for the holiday season," Christmas Assistant for Midwest Family Radio Kristen Bergman said.

The station will broadcast Christmas classics throughout the season on Star 105.1.

It's hoping to bring a little inspiration to those who may be down this year.

"A lot of people have had a tough time," Bergman said. "Whether it's the economy or job loss and we're just trying to give them a little holiday cheer."

Whether it's the sounds, or the lights that perk people up, Williams says she just hopes people remember what Christmas is all about. "Children, family, God," she said.

Retailers say holiday business is all about timing.

Since there's only seven weeks until Christmas, store owners say it's important to get their merchandise on display.

We talked to one woman today who says it's way to early to be worried about Christmas decorations.
  
But Williams says she really hasn't heard any complaints.