Every year the same thing happens. Stores, malls, shops and parking lots become bombarded with droves of last-minute shoppers. Customers are in a rush, employees are irritable and crying children are a dime a dozen. This is typical to those who practice this ritual year after year.Maine Mall, Portland
Christmas Tree Shop, Scarborough
L.L. Bean, Freeport
Super Wal-Mart, Auburn (*NEW*)
Old Navy, Portland (*NEW*)
Target, Portland (*NEW*)
Toys "R" Us, Portland
Babies "R" Us, Portland
The Old Port, South Portland Applebee's, Auburn
Lonestar, Portland
Denny's (the old standby), Portland and Auburn
The 99 Restaurant and Pub, Portland and Auburn
Sam's Italian Sandwich Shop, Auburn and Lewiston
Pat's Pizza, Auburn
The Ground Round, Portland and Auburn
Old Country Buffet, Portland Make a list of who you need to shop for. Include with your list gift ideas for each person and where you could find each item.
Compile a list of all the stores you need to shop and put them in order of destination.
Stretch your finances as far as possible by perusing sale flyers for gift ideas.
Consider carpooling with others and split the cost of fuel in an effort to alleviate the pains of high gas prices.
Bring snacks and beverages to save money instead of eating out. Be patient! There will be traffic, lines and crowds. People come from all over to shop Maine's outlet stores.
Be prepared. Stores will more than likely be out of what you are looking for, so devise alternative gift ideas beforehand.
Be nice! This is a stressful time of year as it is without adding rudeness and sarcasm to the mix. Be aware of your personal possessions at all times. Yes, this is Maine. People "lose" things by not paying attention regardless.
Do not put your bags down unless you're standing on top of them. Bring them to your car if you accumulate too much to carry from store to store.
Don't forget where you parked your car!
Set up a time frame to work with so you'll be able to shop all the stores on your list before closing time.
Despite the many efforts made to avoid this eventuality, it is still in inevitable reality. Some people actually like to shop this way! So, instead of joining the masses in an effort to "stop the insanity," I've decided to contribute to the madness. If you can't beat 'em, join 'em!
Maine's Hot Holiday Shopping Sites:
Places to Eat in the Midst of Chaos:
If you're among the thousands who prefer shopping at the last minute, make it as productive as possible by creating a workable strategy:
How else can this be more bearable?
Points to Remember:
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