As my alarm clock sounded at 5 a.m., I wondered what in the world I was thinking. Then as I stumbled out of bed and proceeded to get ready I wondered if I was the stupidest person on Earth. I soon realized as I pulled into the parking lot of Wal-Mart at 6:30 a.m. I was not alone in my insanity. For those of you that did not share this experience I am referring to shopping the day after Thanksgiving! The day following Thanksgiving is the single largest shopping day of the year. Most retailers depend on their holiday sales more than any other time of the year. To ensure their success, they often lure shoppers into their stores with extra special savings. It is a tradition for me that was started by my mother whom would drag me out of bed to take advantage of these early bird specials. It is fun for me because I really do enjoy the trill of shopping. If all of the hustle and bustle of holiday shopping has you singing the holiday blues, I can offer several suggestions to the brick and mortar stores. The first is online shopping. Most retailers have a web site with tons of presents just a click of a mouse away. The second is home shopping stations. Home Shopping Network and QVC often have unique gifts ideas. As a final alternative there is always the trusty gift certificate. It is guaranteed to fit! No matter what method you choose have a great holiday! Lindsey Pullen is a sophomore Fashion Merchandising major from Martin.