Shopping Season

Strap on your wallet and grab the running shoes, LET THE SHOPPING BEGIN! The season has arrived. Michael and I are beginning our lists. The negotiations that will last up to the final shopping days are happening in the car, having coffee and watching TV. Example from last year: If you throw in half for a CD player for the house, I will throw in for the new pans. This year involves au gratin dishes and expensive William Sonoma coffee cups.

All this is because mom gives each of us money to buy what we want, we wrap everything then open them on Christmas in front of her. Because of her increase in costs living near me, she reduced the amount this year. It was $350 each and is now $200. Still a nice amount to spend, especially for sale hunters like us. Last year, mom bought presents for Shelley's boyfriend and Kimberly. This year, she gave the same amount to both Greg (now Shelley's husband) and Kimberly. Both now considered officially family!

William phoned from New York yesterday. They spent the holiday with Kimberly's cousin and visiting with other friends. They are trying new restaurants and have had amazing experiences. He is going to cook some southern shrimp and grits when they are here before Christmas. So, I told them that I had $200 for each of them from his grandma and he was so touched that Kimberly was now official. I also told them that we also want to give them $200 each to buy what they wanted. He was thrilled! Maybe they will do a bit of shopping while they are still in New York.

The lists will be compiled of what items will be bought from which stores, Michael and I will get all dressed up then shop in one day. Usually a Monday. Somewhere along the way, we will stop to eat a nice lunch and there is always a guarantee of cocktails for Michael to keep him shopping for a few hours more. I may have to fill in to buy a few little things on another day, but I love that we do it together. Power shopping. Holiday fun.