Black Friday - Will You Succumb?

In case you've been living in a cave — or you still don't have electricity after the last storm — this Friday is BLACK FRIDAY! I feel like that needs the echoing announcement a la the guy who says "SUNDAY, SUNDAY, SUNDAY!"

I used to be one of those people who eagerly studied the store sales fliers to see who had the best deals, which store was opening at what time and plan my route and shopping list accordingly. But a funny thing happened on the way to the hot, overcrowded, understocked with those rock-bottom priced items stores.

Last year I had planned to do the usual routine of getting up early and rushing out, but I woke up early not feeling "quite the thing" as my Grandma Rosie used to say, and decided I wasn't up to throwing clothes on and joining the mob. So instead, I made myself a cup of coffee and sat down in front of my computer, where I made one of the greatest discoveries of my life. 

ALL OF THE SAME DEALS THAT OTHER PEOPLE WERE STANDING IN LINE TO GET WERE AVAILABLE ONLINE — AND EVERYONE WAS OFFERING FREE SHIPPING! My favorite "F" word — FREE! 

So I browsed Target, Kohl's, Walmart, Amazon and other favorites and made a healthy dent in my shopping list. I did it in my pajamas in the comfort of my own home while sipping fresh coffee. Do I need to tell you where I'll be this year on BLACK FRIDAY? It won't be driving up and down the parking lots looking in vain for a space, that's for sure.

When I do venture out to shop, I wholeheartedly support the movement that's afoot to encourage people to patronize small local businesses. One of my all-time favorite gifts to give family members is a framed photograph, and I've been doing business with the folks at for as long as I've lived in Milford. Got a picture that needs a frame? Go see Sue and she'll be happy to help you pick out the perfect frame. She works her magic and stays within your budget. Got an old family photo that's damaged or needs a little cropping? Take it to Morin's, you'll be glad you did. 

And if you patronize a local business that you love, please share it with the rest of us.

Have a safe and happy Thanksgiving!