[Mariposita]

So the crazies are out and acting crazy. No other word to describe them. Almost got run over at the store today. This woman was so busy grabbing "things" in boxes that she almost hit me with her cart. I was at BB&B. I couldn't resist asking her, "Christmas shopping already?" She said yes, and looked as if I was dense for not acting the same way.

Have you noticed the frenzied behaviour yet?

[kisaacs]

Haven't noticed it yet, but haven't headed out yet either! I am one of those crazy people who absolutely love to be out on the day after thanksgiving. I love being in a mall during the day on Christmas Eve as well.

I'm usually not really shopping when I'm out on those days, but there's something about being around all that activity that I really just like.

Kristen

[Mariposita]

I used to be that way Kristen until I took my kids with me a few years ago. Not a good idea! They were frazzled and I got frazzled watching them. I like going to the mall once I've done my shopping. Like the atmosphere and mainly kind of take a look at what I'm going to buy after the big day. Everywhere I go now I'm hearing someone talking about shopping/wrapping. One woman today said she gave Harry & David gifts last year (ordered online, got them wrapped and delivered), and everyone was thrilled. She said it was the laziest Christmas shopping she ever did. Sounds wonderful in some ways, but I might miss the crowds

[GardenOfDarwin]

I did the majority of our shopping last year online. We tried to give services or other non-stuff as gifts. Magazine subscriptions, children's museum memberships, knife-sharpening services...those are the kinds of things we gave last year. We also gave a lot of gift cards - wine.com, ulta, crabtree & evelyn. It was nice to know that the recipients were able to purchase something that was in line with their own tastes, but knowing that the thought came from us.

That said, I used to love the hub-bub of shopping at the malls, but I just don't have the patience for it anymore. I think it's gotten crazier each year, and I just don't deal well with chaos!

Susan

[laurie]

I'm with you, Susan. Up until I was about 30 or so, I loved hitting the stores after Thanksgiving, but I won't even attempt it anymore. I can't stand the crowds and the rude people even less.

Years ago when we would go to the mall, hubby and I used to like to just sit and watch all the "different" looking young people (crazy hair, etc.) What an exciting life, huh?

[Emmie9999]

I'm always out of pace at a mall...when I am focused and just walking to a store, everyone in front of me is on a stroll. I keep stepping on the back of people's heels. When I want to window shop, everyone behind me wants to motor through. I can't win.

I love online shopping now. I have half or more of my gifts shipped to my door, or directly to the recipient. I don't drive, so this is a real bonus for me! A few years ago, I bought my DH a new grill for Christmas. I had it sent to my neighbor's house. They were totally happy to help out, until the box showed up and they had to move it to get into their door. It was heavy!