I tried to be as local as I could, shopping within twenty-five blocks. One chain was out of a gift (that I couldn't find anywhere except online) but gave me a terrific deal on it and its accessory as long as I picked up the item from another outlet further away -- it's apparently a hot item, and I got the last one in stock. Another chain store within walking distance didn't have in stock another gift I was looking for but put it on order for me. Again, a good deal. My spouse is getting spoiled this year.

I went to a local, unique store to buy some stocking stuffers and gifts for my lad. Sometimes I have to choose between supporting the local economy and getting exercise. Sometimes I don't: I bought a gift for a friend in New York state from a locally owned store, and I walked there.

I suppose that because I walked and enjoyed the sun and fresh air that I wasn't as misanthropic, claustrophobic and harried as I would have been if I had driven. The retail staff saw me, saw my list, and cheerfully directed me to where I would have found the item had it been in stock. I do try to be prepared because I have worked retail. The retail outlet that was further away was very slow at 3:40 pm on Sunday, which made me happy.

Amazingly, this could be the first year in nine where I haven't purchased any gifts through Amazon.com. (Amazon.ca and Amazon.co.uk do not count.)