It’s after I slip my breakfast dishes into the dishwasher that I stare at the little pile waiting for me on the edge of my kitchen counter. Car keys.  My list of errands.  Coupons.  Purse.  The quartet mocks me. I’ve got a lot I should do today.  Acquire Hawaiian party invitations, facial moisturizer, milk, orange juice.  The mall flaunted a Sunday circular with some black shoes that I’m desperate to see in person.  The pair would perfectly replace the ones in my closet that are on their last leg.  My daughter needs a jewelry armoire so she can organize her baubles and... (Read More ...)

Endorsing that point in a recent study, the Persuadable Research Corporation surveyed online panelists about their feelings surrounding the upcoming holiday, and found that 29% of their respondents either plan not to celebrate or are unsure about taking part of any festivities.   A notable 26% feel the occasion is all about spending money and commercialization. Why the cold shoulder for a day centered around all things lovey-dovey? For some, the concept of couples fawning over one another pushes their patience right over the edge.  Anti-consumerists, embittered singles, candy-heart-haters…the... (Read More ...)