Friday, October 07, 2005

The Switch Has Been Flipped



Last night during Girls' Night Out the switch in my brain was definitely flipped. We had a fun dinner and then finished off with a bit of shopping in the mall. I already told you about how the fall weather can get me in Christmas planning mode... well I saw something for my two girls when we were shopping that I just had to go back for tonight.

Now I also have to tell you that I was feeling really yucky today... I was even tempted to stay home in bed. But I did get into work and convinced myself not to skip the staff night out. It was a good choice. I ended up deciding to go to the mall and called on my good shopping buddy Jeanie to go with me. We only had about an hour, but I got what I wanted... and they were the last two in the store... and both of them were the size I needed. Success!

It has now happened. I have already gone from the planning stages to the shopping stage and what my youngest daughter refers to as mom being in her stealth mode... I wouldn't say that I am yet in full stealth mode, but it looks like I've got a healthy start on the season. I also have some birthdays and Hanukkah gifts to select... not a problem at all!

Why don't you give it a shot this year... plan ahead, shop early, avoid the crowds, take advantage of sales and a good selection, and actually enjoy December! You may find that it is easier to stick to a budget and spend less than when you are rushing around at the last minute.

9 comments:

Happy and Blue 2 said...

I usually shop early so I can go to the store in December and just be in the way of other less organized shoppers..

Ralph said...

Rhodent
For the last four or five years I have always done my shopping on the 23rd or 24th. That was followed by the sinking feeling of hating the Holidays. I might try and take your advice this year. Not rushing around in December and actually enjoying it sounds quite nice.
Ralph

Carol (Smiles and Laughter) said...

If I shop too early I end up spending more because I am not spending as much at once so it doesn't seem so much. LOL. Although I think this year we are cutting back quite a bit since I am now a SAHM and not a working woman.

carmilevy said...

Or do what I do: don't celebrate it at all!

Seriously, sounds like you have implemented a wise strategy. We would all do well to follow your lead.

Rainypete said...

I always do my shopping way early. I'm actuallyalmost done now. This is largely due to the fact that I enjoy shopping about as much as goingto the dentist, or doing my income taxes....either one.

portuguesa nova said...

How great! EVERY YEAR I promise myself that I will do this. I never do.

Rhodent said...

Don't put it off! Now is the time to get started! Just start with a couple of things.... and make sure you keep a list of what you've purchase for whom! Aim to be done before Thanksgiving... you'll be glad you did!

Gel said...

Glad you enjoyed yourself and good advice on an early start. I'm still in Halloween celebration mode, but we make our gifts. Crowds are stressful! Hope you feel better.

Gel said...

Glad you enjoyed yourself and good advice on an early start. I'm still in Halloween celebration mode, but we make our gifts. Crowds are stressful! Hope you feel better.