Some people love going to the mall on the day after Thanksgiving for "Black Friday." I understand why. The festive music and atmosphere, the deep-discounts on big ticket items, and big sales on everything else. But the traffic, the parking hassles, the crowds, and the push-and-shove?

Well...let's just say it's not for everyone. Including me.

The only thing I'll miss is the exercise you get on a marathon shopping outing. But that's easily remedied. I'll just work off all those Thanksgiving calories at home - decorating the house for Christmas.

Think about all the things you do to decorate:

• Climbing up and down stairs to fetch boxes of ornaments, garlands, and singing Santas. 
• Putting up the Christmas tree and holding it in place until it's level in the stand.
• Stringing lights and garland all around the tree.
• Putting on all the ornaments.
• Reaching that last few inches to get the tree topper settled in place. 

Climbing, bending, reaching, and stretching are all awesome ways to work every one of your muscles. And when you're working your muscles, you're burning calories. Which means when it comes time to make Santa's cookies, you can have a taste for yourself - without the guilt!

Your "Working It Off on Black Friday" Gift Guru,
Linda