Open at 6 p.m. on Thanksgiving? I groan and shake my head in disgust.
That was me last year as well. What was I getting ready to go out and do at 6 p.m.? Head out and shop.
My name is Kylee Crane and I am a Black Friday hypocrite.
Growing up, I remember watching my mom talk to my aunt about the deals she was on the hunt for, while getting ready to head out to stand in line at midnight, just as I would head to bed. I was not allowed to go out because my mother feared that I would be trampled in the crowds of impatient shoppers, but I knew one day, I would join the crowds and stay up all night to score some great deals.
Fast forward to about three years ago to my first Black Friday experience. The stores were starting to open a little earlier, but I still stayed out until the early morning with my boyfriend and his family. It was fun, no one was injured and we got some great Christmas gifts. Each year after, the deals started earlier on Thanksgiving evening, I would complain that it was ridiculous and I would not partake, but there I was in line again.
This year I’m complaining, but I don’t think I will go out quite as early.
It just doesn’t seem fair. I love Thanksgiving and I look forward to my dad’s excitement of cooking the majority of the food from the early morning to the afternoon. I love watching the parade on TV, just like I did as a kid, and hanging out with my family. I love the crisp air in the morning during a run or a Turkey Day 5K, and thanking the Lord for all he has blessed me with on the day.
I get upset when I think about the family time and dinners cut short because family members have to leave in mid-afternoon to prepare for their Black Friday shifts that really aren’t on Friday anymore. This of course is all for deals that really aren’t all that great (although there are some).
Last year, my boyfriend and I ventured out a little later than the stores opened and really didn’t miss much. We got all we wanted and the longest line we waited in only took about 15 minutes. Granted, it was snowing, but I don’t think many people wanted to partake as early as the consumer world thought.
One day, I hope Black Friday transforms back into the exciting time I remember it being as I watched others head out and shop -- when it was actually on Friday. Until then, I think I will enjoy the moments I can with my loved ones and leisurely head out into the shopping fun. I know my one refrain from shopping on Thanksgiving probably won’t make a difference, but hopefully others will be reminded of what Thanksgiving is about and follow suit.
