From the Garret: Archives

Ten helpful hints on how to enjoy holiday shopping

Yes, I'm a sick puppy: I really like to go shopping for holiday gifts. I hum along with the music wafting from the loudspeakers; I smile at the children waiting to sit on Santa's lap; I chat pleasantly with the folks who help me in the stores. This is how I maintain my good cheer in the face of overwhelming odds:

1. Make a list. I have a master list of everyone's names and I photocopy it year after year, writing in the gifts I've collected for that year in the space after the name. As the blank spaces fill up, my satisfaction grows.
2. Shop early. No, I don't mean in July as some disgustingly organized people do (like my sister!). I mean on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday, when an analysis of credit card records shows the fewest transactions being made. Mornings are also better than afternoons, if you have a flexible schedule.
3. Shop often. Don't try to buy your entire list in one day. Select no more than four names from your list for one shopping trip. Any extras you happen to pick up as you wander through the aisles will be bonuses.
4. Group stores. I have some idea of which stores I will have the best luck in for certain people. When I choose the names for the day, I try to group them by geographical location of the shops I want to visit. It cuts down on travel time and sore feet.
5. Use coupons and special offers. You'll enjoy the feeling of being both smart and thrifty when you see how much you've saved at the end of the day.
6. Cash is cool. For teenagers, nothing is a more appreciated gift than cash, and it eases the stress for you.
7. Books are better. For a more personal touch, choose a book that reflects your loved one's interests, then add a gift certificate if you need a bit extra. Even better, you get to spend time in my idea of heaven, a bookstore.
8. Reward yourself. On every foray into the retail wilderness, give yourself a little gift. It can be as small as one piece of gourmet chocolate or as significant as a glittery top to wear on New Year's Eve. Sometimes indulging in lunch at a fast food joint with great fries can be a luxury.
9. Wrap the day after. After shopping, give yourself a break. The wrapping can be done tomorrow.
10. Glow with the spirit. Whatever your religion, remember the significance behind the tradition of giving gifts. Think of the people you're buying the present for: what you love about them, how they make you laugh, what you did the last time you were together. Not only will you smile at the memories, you might even get a great idea about what to give them!

I hope you have the happiest of holidays!