Black Friday Edition

Hello again, it’s me, Joseph and I’m on the move. First and foremost, I want to wish you a Happy Thanksgiving Weekend, as I know that the celebration continues for many as schedules are adjusted to gather on the day that works the best. I am so grateful for friends, family, clients and guests. #attitudeofgratitude. As we turn the corner into holiday season 2024, I am sending love and joy in this interlude of merriment. No matter what you celebrate, I raise a glass in peace and wish you prosperity!

Secondly, let’s face it. There’s some shopping to be done. We’ve gathered some resources to help make all things merry and bright including your bank account. We’re huge fans of making an investment in your community by shopping small, so we have included some helpful links. As you hunt, dear reader, for the perfect gift, please know, that many times it’s simpler and less money than you think. Yes, the thought counts!

Black Friday

The link above puts all the links into one place. Many stores have had their Black Friday Sales since November 1st. However, some stores will reduce even more. Please note that you can shop Amazon with a small business filter so even if it’s not a local company for you, it’s local for someone else.

Small Business Saturday

This year Small Business Saturday is on November 30th. Participating businesses will have a sign on their door, however, feel free to bop into any small business that you know including cafes and restaurants to show some local love.

Cyber Monday

What’s the difference between Cyber Monday and Black Friday? The link above shares a little history and some links to the best deals. To summarize, Black Friday was an in person event and Cyber Monday was for the online shoppers. Today, truly, anything goes. What’s important to remember is that items could be sold out online, but in stock in the stores. You may have to get out of the recliner. It will be worth it for the right gift.

Gift Certificates

We’re huge fans of the thoughtful ones! Read that as fans of creating an experience. Airbnb gift certificates are available. Santa has the perfect PineappleROC property waiting for you whether you crave a city vibe or water view. Consider travel gift certificates to make gathering around the table possible for everyone. Memberships to museums, science centers and yes, wineries, are also ways to create an ongoing experience.

DIY Gifts

You can create some meaningful gifts yourself. Notice I didn’t say handmade or make. If you’re crafty, go for it. If you’re not, there’s still hope. Here are a few of our favorites.

Christmas Music Frame

The sample shows a Christmas Carol which is a great holiday decoration. Expand the idea with a thought towards a year round display. What is “your song”? Buy the sheet music and frame it. Add a special touch with a personal note. Do you have a family recipe written in someone’s handwriting. Frame it!

Pioneer Woman: 125 DIY Christmas Gifts

Ornament Kit

You don’t have to make it. Just grab the materials and a really fun box to put it in. You could buy a premade one but it’s more fun and thoughtful, to create your own so you don’t end up with a camel or cow that you don’t need. Great for kids and adults. “Painting with a Twist” meet your match!

Pioneer Woman: 125 DIY Christmas Gifts

Mason Jar Cocktails

Unlike some of the scary DIY body sugar scrubs, a cocktail will be a welcome treat to be mixed immediately for some instant fa la la and you can reuse the mason jar. #sustainability Use a signature drink you share, or create your own.

The Gift of Time

The truth is, that the greatest gift we can give each other is our time. I have often purchased a small table clock and included a note of how grateful I am for time spent together. In a world of digital go, go, go, it’s nice to hear the steady click of an analog clock.

In this season of giving thanks, I am so grateful for time spent with each of you. I wish you all things merry and bright as you gather to celebrate with those that matter most.

Cheers,

Joseph