Black Friday

I love it.

I really love it. I have developed a strategy that has worked wonders over the years. And now I am going to share it with you. First of all, I don't really Christmas shop on black Friday. I shop for myself. For me it takes away most of the stress and is just the most fun shopping day of the year! I enjoy the crowds, meeting people in line, finding amazing deals. These are three things I do not really enjoy on any other shopping day. Well, I like finding amazing deals, but I am not willing to put in the work.

So, that is what you should know about me. I am a snobby shopper. I hate stores like Ross, Marshal, TJMax. Ugh, shoot me now. I know there are amazing gems in the junk at these stores, but I just don't have the patience. But one day a year I am willing to enjoy bargain shopping, mostly because the stores make it so easy.

I have discovered the perfect time to go shopping on black Friday. I have tested my theory in Virginia, Utah, Oregon, and Idaho. So far it has passed the test in these four states at several different malls. Now that is another thing you should know. I like to mall shop that day. I avoid the big superstores and electronic stores. I'm sorry, but that is where the crazies are headed. Most days if I make it to the mall it is with some kids in tow, and I have to get in and get out in record time. Black Friday is my day to hit any and every store I want.

Now, the perfect time. There is a secret window of shopping time. It is between 9am and noon. The crazies are heading out by then because they have been there since 4am. And the families that are sleeping in start to arrive around noon. Most early bird specials last until 11am, some even until 1pm. So you are getting the same deals as the crazies that showed up at 4am. You can find a parking spot easily, and there are usually not lines at checkout.

I realize that some of you are ready to write comments defending the crazies. Because you are one of them, and it is the only way to get the best deals. Fine. You might be right. But do you love black Friday as much as me? Are you having as much blissful fun as me? Pleasantly strolling and enjoying every moment of the holiday shopping experience? I refuse to race someone to the back of the store for that perfect deal. How about you?

Buds in Stripes

This week has been a tough one for many different reasons. Mostly because being a Mom is just hard. But look at these pictures. I mean really. Really. I am so lucky!

Halloween

Well, life moves on. And that is difficult, but refreshing too. I have been amazed at how many little blessings we have seen in the past few weeks. For example, getting to spend Halloween with our Utah family! We continued the super hero theme. Nathan did not dress up. I don't do baby dress up. Sorry! See? I am supposed to be a boy Mom!

I was so impressed with their cousin Josh going trick or treating with his much younger cousins. What a sweet kid! He was so helpful with Matthew when he was having trouble keeping up. Love that!

This is Jeremy's Omi, she is always so sweet and loving with our boys.

One Week Ago Tonight....

We got the very unexpected news that Jeremy's Dad had passed away. The grief is overwhelming and deep, and especially to witness through Jeremy's eyes. I love this picture today after spending the last week with his siblings and appreciating their great strength and grace in dealing with their Father's passing. The funeral was a beautiful tribute to him and his life.