Black Friday

I make it a personal goal to be finished with my Christmas shopping by December 1st each year. The month of December invariably gets hectic, but I try to plan ahead by getting the busy-work done so I can savor the season rather than feeling stressed by it. I start by shopping for extended family in late Summer/early Fall and take advantage of great deals as I find them. By spacing out the shopping I enjoy it more and it spreads the expense across several months rather than a huge hit at the end of the year.

There are always the last minute items--especially since 4 year olds change their minds a lot--but for the most part being essentially finished once Advent begins is a HUGE gift to myself each year.

I was, however, intrigued by what deals I might be missing today--and wanted to get a little taste of the action by Christmas shopping with the crowds, so K and I ventured out for a few decorating and wrapping supplies this afternoon. The boys accompanied my hubby to Home Depot and Blockbuster while K and I went to the Dollar Store and Wal-Mart. As we were driving I kept thinking of things I needed. I decided to give K a project and asked her if she could make a list for me. Her writing has been improving a lot, but I still was not sure how this was going to all work out. I spelled each item aloud and as I glanced back through my rear view mirror, she appeared to be dutifully writing them down.

Imagine my surprise when we arrived at our destination and she handed me this list.When did my baby girl become a full fledged shopping companion and scribe? It twinges my heart every time I look at this piece of notebook paper. The sweetness of little girl handwriting mixed with the reality that she is growing up.

I simply adore that curly headed girl!