The tickets have been sold. The half-time talent has been bought. The Seattle Seahawks are pinching themselves and preparing for their first trip to the Big Game. The formidable Pittsburgh Steelers are pulling out their white uniforms for a change. And the online shopping for Super Bowl parties has already begun.

Where will you be on Sunday, February 5th, the 40th anniversary of this all-American institution? I'll be glued to the screen at my very own Super Bowl event. Are you throwing a bash too? Then you too have plenty of planning in store. I'm starting with the easy stuff: The Super Bowl party supplies. From plates and cups to Beer Smarts and plastic grass, I'm getting it all at my favorite party goods store, PlumParty.com.

And now for the main course. What to serve? Chips. Dips. Wings. Pizza. Buffet style without a doubt. After all, sophistication is hardly the name of the game. I might keep it simple and order in advance from AppetizersToGo.com this year. (Check out the tasty Super Delicious Super Bowl Combo, which requires simply sticking everything in the oven on game day.) Then again, there's going to be a lot of juggling going on. I might just save myself some trouble and money and make my party a potluck. Whatever you decide to do, don't forget plenty of beer, soda and ice.

So you'll be safe and warm at home with better seats than Detroit has to offer. Lucky me, I'm borrowing a whiz-bang projector from a friend. But what better time to invest in a flat-screen TV? A site like Bizrate.com help you find the ideal option for your budget — and your needs. You can most likely save money shopping online, though you won't be able to see your new TV in person unless you buy at the web site of a well-known retailer near you (after checking out the model in person).

A few more things to keep in mind while shopping for a flat-screen TV: How much room do you have? Will your TV hang on your wall or sit on your floor? How many inputs/outputs do you need for devices like your DVD player, VCR, stereo system, etc.? What kind of warranty is available? This is a good time to re-read my "Seven Essential Tips for Safe Online Shopping" post from January 6th. Good luck. And may the best team win.