I’m Nearly Finished Christmas Shopping

I think the days shorten the closer we get to Christmas. I wrapped presents and checked my list twice this morning. I strategized with my husband before I hit the road. List in hand, I headed out to dodge other holiday shoppers and trade my hard-earned money for gifts that will hopefully bring joy to my loved ones.

I’ll try to visit the grocery store again early tomorrow before I go to the Joplin Writers’ Guild book signing at Always Buying Books. Yes, I’m sure I’ll be buying lots of books at my favorite local bookstore. I always do. They are the perfect gift, you know.

Five stores and seven hours later, I dragged my purchases into the house while clutching a $2.00 fast food burger beneath my arm. I choked down my burger as I separated my items by person in individual piles around my living room. I put on some Christmas music and consulted my list again.

Mom called to discuss the Christmas dinner menu, which allowed me sit down and take a break while I talked to her. I told her what I’d accomplished and discussed ideas for finishing up. Then I called my husband to let him know what I bought and for whom. I certainly don’t want him duplicating anything. He has a tendency to be a last minute shopper, so it’s important he knows where things stand.

I know that Christmas isn’t about gifts. I bow my head and thank the Lord just like millions of others this time of year. However, giving my loved ones things that make them smile makes me feel good, so I give each gift a lot of thought. Sometimes I even agonize over what would be best. In the end, I just want everyone to be happy. Even though it will be never happen, I still try.

This is a hectic and stressful time of year. Be kind to others, and you may receive blessings in return. Thank you for reading Ozarks Maven! If you’ve enjoyed my little seeds of wisdom and joy, please subscribe to Ozarks Maven, Like Ozarks Maven on Facebook, or follow me on Twitter @OzarksMaven.

I am a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for me to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.