Here I am, skimming through the Reader, trying to figure out what I’m going to review for today’s assignment. Well, I suppose the title says it all, doesn’t it? Pictures are worth a thousand words, let’s insert some into this post to make a point, shall we?
Last Thanksgiving, I was chatting with a friend while I helped myself to a second serving of mashed potatoes. They were my own so of course, I liked them enough to get seconds. My plans for that day was to take a nap and get some more food while marathoning The Lord of the Rings for the rest of the day. Imagine my shock and confusion when she explained that she was going out into the masses that was Black Friday (which we all know starts on Thursday. -inward sigh-)
“Why would you do that?” I ask, completely content with a forthcoming slice of pumpkin pie. “I dunno, just to experience it. It’ll be fun.” she said. Fun? Fun?? Standing in line for hours on end amongst strangers that are basically scoping you out as their next target to trample on their way into the store is fun? I’m sorry, but I wouldn’t want to experience the real-life Hunger Games.
Shoppers at Black Friday be like…
Why do people feel obligated to participate in Black Friday? In today’s society it’s like some sick coming-of-age ritual during the holiday season, which in reality, the entire existance of Black Friday is the opposite of what holidays are supposed to be about. Sure, the deals are pretty good, but I wouldn’t risk my well-being just for a discounted flat-screen tv. That’s what Cyber Monday is for. (Kidding.)
I suppose this is sounding negative; I’m not bashing people who go out to the stores to try and get good sales. Actually, I think you’re kind of brave. I wouldn’t have the guts to go out there and shop, risking the chance of going through all that ordeal for possibly coming home with no spoils. If I did, that might be for a social experiment. (Another time, another blog post.)
So while the warriors of holiday shopping are off in the early morning, catching the best deals, I’ll be here watching a hobbit trying to save Middle Earth with the help of his fellowship. Oh, and I’ll save you a piece of pumpkin pie. Maybe.
An Offbeat Bluestocking 
I try to avoid Black Friday. I do most of my Christmas shopping online. The only time I went out on Black Friday was to get my daughter princesses dresses that were on sale. The sale allowed me to get both princess and fairy dresses – so it was worth it.
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I’m glad to hear your venture wasn’t in vain! Christmas shopping online isn’t as frustrating, at least so far based on my experiences.
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Online is much better and easier, just watch the shipping times. One year I was really late getting gifts and didn’t know that one of my son’s gifts wouldn’t come until after Christmas. I try to start early, but I always end up behind.
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Oh that’s happened to me too, it puts a damper on the day of, just a bit doesn’t it? I just think of it as something new to look forward to after Christmas.
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I’ve done Black Friday a few times. I’d never go into an electronics store though. People are incredibly rude, finally I just decided it wasn’t worth it.
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I’ve heard horror stories of Black Friday shopping, my parents had even done it once I think, when I was little. My dad had tried getting me a scooter and he had it in his hands but a lady took it from him. The stress and frustration that comes from all those rude people just isn’t worth it, like you said.
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I’ll be right there with you and I’ll bring the leftovers! 😉
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Alright, Michelle saves the day! 🙂
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🙂
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I appreciate your review of Black Friday and Black Friday Eve. I am so disinclined to do this, even if I were an arch-shopper. A shopping death toll of one–that was a few years back–is more than enough reason for me not to go. Which means you’re right: taking on the adventure is brave for those who accept the quest. I shop on line, too, and throughout the year. So that, if in the summer I comes across something (on line or in three dimensions) that reminds me of a member of my family, I’ll pick it up to give to when the holidays arrive. But then sometimes I end up with many things and forget whom something is for. Maybe it’s for me! Not that I’d rather go to Mordor, though I’d rather watch Frodo and Samwise do it. What a great holiday idea. Some friends and I picked a day (maybe it was Bilbo’s birthday) and watched the three extended versions of the first three films, while eating hobbit food. So have a great time going there–to Thanksgiving food–and back again. Thank you!
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