Black Thursday/Friday Mistakes

In previous years I've never gone to any Black Friday sales, because I like sleeping in more than "getting a deal" on something at 6am. Trying not to get run over or getting in a fight with somebody also didn't appeal to me.

This year, I was talking to a friend about it... she goes to Walmart every year and buys a new printer because a new printer is cheaper than buying a refill ink cartridge. So I went home and did a couple hours of ad searching trying to find something I would want.

When I shop, I look only for things I would use, have space for, and already want. Then I check reviews, and pick the best brand and model.

Looking at the ads, what I saw was: cheapest crappy brand = moderate sale price. And I didn't find a single thing that even approached a brand/model combo I was interested in. And that Walmart printer? It's $30 on ad instead of $40 regularly because it's just that cheap. 25% off is not a blowout deal.

But as each year brings on an earlier and earlier opening doors time, and this year, where stores open at 6pm ON THANKSGIVING, I'm disgusted. Disgusted that employees have to work because people will go shopping. I believe in boycotting stores on days I wouldn't want to work. That includes Sundays, LDS General Conference weekend, and holidays - including the day before and after.

This is where I admit I went to the store this Thanksgiving morning. It was kind of an ox in the mire. I was out of milk, and my 1 year old needs something to drink. So, on my way out, I tipped my cashier, and the grocery cart collector. They both were surprised and happy about it. And it made me feel good doing the giving. I definitely recommend tipping employees when you're shopping on a day you wouldn't want to be at work.

Photos and Memories

There are pictures that were taken well and are beautiful. And there are some that are not. But what's most interesting is how sometimes the most well taken pictures bring back some of the worst memories. And as much as I would love to switch my good memories to the ones I have good pictures of, it doesn't work that way. And them, sometimes a very mediocre photo is the most important one.