For some reason, I’m getting into the holiday spirit early this year. In recent years, the holiday spirit has taken its sweet time in taking over and I often don’t really feel like it’s Christmastime until the very day it arrives. But for some reason, I’m feeling Christmassy already and it’s only November 7th!! I’m about ready to break out the Christmas tunes, and I NEVER do that before Thanksgiving. It must be the weather. It is so gray and cold out, and it just smells like winter.

I’m also excited about Neighborhood Toy Store Day this Saturday. I think I might actually start Christmas shopping! Last year we were visiting family in Virginia over Neighborhood Toy Store Day, and we happened to be perusing local toy shops in a nearby town. It was so much fun. There were special activities and crafts for the kids, and we got to chat with store owners and other people in the community while we shopped. While the convenience of the online retailers is hard to beat, there is nothing like shopping local for superior customer service and fostering community.

Small independently owned toy stores typically have more variety and a better selection of unique products that big chain stores, and they often offer special services such as gift wrapping and fun diversions for the kids while you shop. Plus, having someone knowledgable on hand to advise you on your purchases, especially when choosing gifts, is invaluable.

This year, Neighborhood Toy Store Day is Saturday, November 10th. Participating stores will be hosting local in-store events for families such as face painting, craft projects, live performances and special discounts. To find local events near you, check out YourNeighborhoodToyStore.org.

I am pleased to be participating in a sponsored campaign with ASTRA this holiday season because I love shopping local and supporting family owned businesses!