Holiday shopping…

…is problematic. It’s the time of the year when many cultures traditionally exchange gifts. There’s a conditioned seasonal impulse to shop with a vengeance joy, often spending beyond our means in an effort to impress others with the amount we care for them.

Wait! Am I projecting like the Republicans accusing the Democrats of sexual impropriety?

Anyway, we’re within 10 days of the official holiday shopping season and the pressure is on. How are you planning to approach mass consumerism at a time when the current regime is denying food and heat to this country’s poor? Where are you going to shop when you’re doing your best to avoid businesses such as Amazon, Target, Home Depot and Starbucks?

I’ve got some ideas and, like always, I’m happy to share them…

I don’t think I’m alone in my desire to not accumulate another thing in my home, much preferring to spend time doing something fun with a friend or family. While, yes, there are unavoidable purchases that must be made, particularly when it comes to my children (case in point, the $120 Anunoby jersey my son requested), personally, I’m much more appreciative of an opportunity to experience something new than I am about adding another scarf or candle to my world.

How about an easy night out that rings all the bells – i.e. contained within a specified length of time, with a preset menu, yet designed to allow attendees to mingle, as well as learn about an interesting topic? Fight the urge to go big and instead go Tiny, as in attending one of The Dishing’s Tiny events.

These thoughtfully curated midweek talks and tastes are popping up in the Capital District and, for a mere $20, guests get to hear a local artist, creator or hospitality industry personality’s story while enjoying tiny cocktails and bites. Tonight’s agenda? Hosted by New Scotland Ave favorite Ale & Oyster, listen to one of upstate New York’s most recognized djs, Truemaster Trimingham, discuss his life and lessons learned with a hip hop soundtrack.

It’s going to be fun.

I came to The Sound of Music late in life when my oldest son developed an obsession with this classic musical. As a veteran of a Sound of Music singalong that we drove to New Hampshire to attend and Fraulein Maria’s Salzburg bike tour, I think I just might be ready to take in the stage version. Fingers crossed that my son will also be interested!

Now, if you absolutely have to present someone with a physical gift, wrapped and bowed, Grapevine Farms in Cobleskill has something for everyone. Gourmet ingredients for the adventurous home cook? Check. Baubles and bangles for those who appreciate shiny things? Done. Ornaments and decorations to deck the halls? Present. Gifts for the young, older and in between? They’ve got that. Honestly, if you can’t find something for anyone on your list, you’re just not trying.

Bonus – if you feel a little peckish while you’re exploring three floors of potential gifts, take a break and get some lunch. The cup of soup/half sandwich combo was fire. There’s also a wine tasting room where you can sample and purchase NYS wines. Talk about one stop shopping!

As you step out (or online) to purchase gifts for those on your Nice List, do so thoughtfully. I completely understand making one’s limited holiday budget go as far as possible, but do try to support small businesses and the arts. Keeping these important members of the community afloat is a gift that can be enjoyed all year.