Amazon Knows Best

I was searching for hard-to-find 22 inch trash compactor bags on Amazon. While Amazon didn't have any, it did find something that might be even more useful when it comes to getting rid of trash. Thank you Amazon -- you know what works best!

Still Life with Robin: Holiday Shopping, Online Or Off?

by Peggy Robin

It’s Black Friday but many of you have already started your holiday shopping -- especially if you’re celebrating Hanukkah, which starts on December 1 this year and is over by the 8th. Such pressure! Each year I have to decide which is better (or more accurately, which is the lesser of two evils): Navigating the crowds at the mall or navigating the wilds of the worldwide web? This year I’m asking for your opinion, too. Vote in the poll. And let me know your thoughts, as well (in the comments section below).

Here are the factors I’m already mulling over in my mind – followed by the point values I’ve assigned to each. At the end I’ll add up all the scores and we’ll see which form of holiday shopping emerges as the better gift-producing strategy.

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For On-line Shopping/Against Going to Stores:

Avoid the crowds and the long lines at checkout. +5

Saves on gas, better for the environment. +3

Don’t have to fight for a parking space at the mall – or remember where it is once I leave the car. +3

No need to stand in line to use the bathroom. +2

If I want to interrupt my shopping to get something to eat or drink, all I have to do is go to the kitchen. +2

Deal of the Day: 50% off Designer Shoes

Today on Deals For Deeds (http://www.dealsfordeeds.com) get 50% off Shoes by Lara (www.shoesbylara.com). With several convenient DC-area locations to choose from, you'll be sure to stop by and pick out some great new footwear from designers like Anne Klein, Joan and David, Via Spiga, Franco Sarto, Nine West, Aerosole, Naturalizer, Rockport and more!


And as always, a portion of every sale on the site will support local non-profits. This month you can choose to support Reach Incorporated (www.reachincorporated.org), Miriam's Kitchen (www.miriamskitchen.org), or the Epilepsy Foundation - Metro Washington (www.epilepsyfoundation.org/local/metropolitanWashington).