Back in the old days, I LOVED to go Christmas shopping. It was so exciting to me to be out in the stores, hunting down the perfect gift for each person on my list - and what joy when I did find it! Better than that was shopping with my cousin Kevin.
When we lived in El Paso, I had the most fantastic shopping buddy. No one else I know loves to shop as much as Kevin. We would arm ourselves with shopping lists and coupons and hit the ground running. Imagine our delight when the department stores and toy stores started staying open until midnight. It was a real test of endurance to keep up with him as he left no sale un-turned! I remember complaining to him that I was exhausted or that my feet were bleeding , (I was exaggerating, of course), but he always had one more stop to make.
Then it was back to the house for coffee or hot chocolate and the Carpenter's Christmas Album while we talked and wrapped the presents late into the wee hours of the morning. By then we were soooooo tired and punchy that we would laugh until we cried. I miss you, Kubby. Christmas shopping has never been the same without my best shopping buddy.
Due to circumstances beyond my control, this year's shopping is happening during this last week before Christmas. I did a little bit of cyber shopping early on, but am left with several major items to purchase this week. It will have to be done in the evenings after work. I do have another fabulous shopping helper in my sweet husband. Although Ron doesn't have the patience to walk alongside me as I consider my purchases, he will call me every hour or so and arrange for a pick up. Under strict instructions not to look inside the bags, he will meet me wherever I am and pick up my packages so I am free to move around a little easier as I continue my search.
Ron is a very deliberate shopper. When he is hunting down an item, he loves to do A LOT of comparison shopping. He will go to at least 3 different places to look for one thing! I don't have the patience or the energy for that. I will tell you that I am usually the very appreciative beneficiary of his expeditions. He does a great job!
Anyway, Christmas is one week away and I have a lot to do. It's going to have to be done in the evenings after work. I'm older now and don't have quite the energy and enthusiasm for holiday shopping that I did when the girls were little and I had Kevin to drag me on to the next store. I'm sure I will manage or maybe I really will shop till I drop...
2 comments:
What shopping I do, is done online. Obviously. When I was younger (and more mobile) if I saw something in July or August, I bought it. At least I had a head start.
Ah yes Laura, I too remember those days fondly. Now that all of the kids are older, there isn't quite the same need or urgency to shop till we drop. But I too miss my shopping buddy; just spending time with you made those bleeding feet worth it. I miss you cousin. Love you lots, Kubby
Post a Comment