Why I Love Black Friday!!

To my loyal readers I must apologize. I haven't written in a month. Not because I haven't thought of you all, but rather, I have been training for the big day. Black Friday that is.

And while training may have begun the day after Halloween, the day came and went quicker than expected.

Coupons and store maps in hand, the alarm rung at 3am. And off I headed into uncharted territory. Not really, but it sounded like a good beginning for a story.

Actually, as tradition would have it, I brought my Mother along and my running shoes (equally as important that day).

I would advise anyone who takes on this adventure to have a plan. Start with a list of people to buy for. Decide on the perfect gifts. Search flyers. Investigate opening times. Check bank balances (one can easily get carried away, i.e.- "It wasn't my fault. The purple sweater whispered to me").

And while I may be the topic of jokes in my family ("I heard Mary was at the Mall before Last Call was even served.") My madness has served me well. For the simple task of waking up before the roosters; I have managed to save thousands of dollars....No Joke!

And what have I done with all my new found fortunes you ask? Well, I bought a brand new pair of running shoes.

Enjoy Training:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=POwG7udjg_Y

Halloween Is Just For Kids...Not!

Well another Halloween has finally passed. All this preparation; and it's over in a matter of hours. Is it worth it? You betcha!

There are very few people that face Halloween with as much enthusiasm as myself. I have a hard time understanding why. I mean it wasn't that long ago that we all marched through our neighborhoods with larger than life pillowcases hoping for the "Mother Load" of all candy. And yet somehow over the years we have lost our luster.

Maybe it's just about passing the torch. I know how it makes me feel when I see my children all dressed up and ready to hit the streets. They can barely sit for dinner, let alone stay by my side as we visit the many houses for treats.

If you were one of the lucky ones who viewed the Halloween episode of Modern Family this year, you would understand exactly where I'm coming from. It is that exact excitement that takes over my whole being come the first of October until the big finale on the 31st.

So when my sister proposed the idea of dressing up as the ghost of Abraham Lincoln, I felt it was only right that she needed a John Wilkes Booth. And yes, that is us in the picture. Please give her all the credit for the makeup. My talent ends with baking cookies.

No, we didn't bother anyone for candy. That shipped sailed long ago. However, celebrating Halloween with a great costume is right up my alley. Luckily, my sister holds the same belief.

There were some great costumes out there last night. But few stood up to Lincoln and Booth. I only wish there were more grown ups who continued their Halloween spirit into adult years.

Take it from me. You'll have a great time!