Friday 5: That time of year

Happy Friday! It is Black Friday and, while it’s technically Buy Nothing Day, I absolutely did not observe that. Mom and I went out to participate in some of the tomfoolery.

We started at Kohl’s, headed to Cherry Hill Mall for Macy’s and Nordstrom (with a tasty lunch at Nordstrom Cafe). I was pleasantly surprised to see that the mall was a madhouse in the best way! It felt like the old days. The shoppers were all in great moods and and the young people would say, the vibes were immaculate.

We wrapped up in Collingswood at Occasionette, which continues to be my favorite store in the entire world. While I love my house on Literary Lane, I still miss living in Collingswood. I adored the little shops and restaurants that line Haddon Avenue.

I crossed a few names off my list, and even bought a sorely-needed winter coat for myself. Im in love with that light blue.

And Thanksgiving was amazing. My heart and belly were full. The lovely Kristen did an amazing job, as always. I also discovered that Nephew A is aware that this blog exists. I got to explain to him that no, I have not made money from this blog. It’s a big ol’ money loser.

By the way, he a chocolate brownie cheesecake entirely from scratch. Including the whipped cream. It was divine.

Let’s hit up the Friday 5! The theme is That time of year which is now very much THIS time of year!

1. Which of your area’s holidays (local or national) is, aside from its being a day off from work, is least meaningful to you? I think it’s President’s Day. And this isn’t even a slam on the current guy, I just think honoring leaders veers too a little too close to honoring Dear Leaders for my comfort.
   
2. Where in the calendar would you like to see a holiday created, not for any special reason other than its being a good time for it?
   I am not a fan of the hole left by the non-observance of Columbus Day in NJ, so I would create a holiday on the second Monday in October.
   
3. Do you prefer get-together holidays or just-a-day-off holidays?
   Just-a-day-off, and not only because I’m introverted. Days off are lovely. I’m thankful TNP has a very solid holiday and PTO policy.
   
4. How are you feeling about the coming holiday season?
   Cautiously positive. I have a few nights out planned, and that adds a lot of sparkle. I’m excited to make cookies. I’m in a decent place gift-wise. I don’t yet know what I’m serving on Christmas Eve, but I’ll get there.
   
5. If you could start a holiday tradition this year — communal or solo — what would it be?
   WM and I observe Sloth Week between Christmas and New Years. We (try to) go nowhere. I think more people could benefit from a solid week of books and coziness.

With that, I think I’m going to pour some coffee and maybe break into the tub of Tastykake holiday cookies that I buy each year. Next week is Kim’s Favorite Things 2025!