have you guys heard about this??  it’s an awesome push to patronize small businesses.  november 26th, the saturday after thanksgiving (this saturday!), is the day to step into a local shop and buy something.  i love love love this idea.  while i am a huge fan of the ‘big ‘box’ and department stores, i also adore the charm and uniqueness that a mom and pop type of place adds to a city.  we need these guys to stick around, so get out there and spend some money!  you need to do some christmas shopping anyway.  :)