Never one to be outdone by my own stupidity, I decided I could do better than last year's late Christmas shopping debacle. On Christmas Eve, the boys and I went to the local Mall to get some gifts for Allie.

This is something I need a lot of work on; namely, gift buying/giving. I had a poor example in my father, but I know to do better. The problem is almost like a mental block or something. I remember events a month or two beforehand and the day before. In between I am apparently incapable of remembering I have gifts to buy. Or, I only remember when I am working or it is 2am.

So there we were, at the mall on Christmas Eve. I was surprised at how easy it was, actually. Crowded, yes, but not nearly as bad as last year on the 22nd. Checkouts and parking/driving were a breeze compared to my expectations. Nonetheless, I don't recommend Christmas Eve shopping if you can avoid it. Okay, so next year, I will do better. So help me God. Please.