I've been doing the Black Friday thing for many years now. I have learned a lot of lessons and here are some of them.

Lesson #1: Let others help

Why do all Black Friday sales start at 5 am (and some even earlier)? I am not a morning person, not even on Black Friday. Last year, Walmart had Rockband on sale and I had one of my relatives go and get it for me, at 5 am. And another year, my husband got a sought-after prelit Christmas tree at JCPenney at dawn. So, I've learned, if someone else is willing to fight the crowds, I let them.

Lesson #2: I will be ok if I don't get the #1 item on my list

Every year it seems some store (usually Target) has the blockbuster item I need. And every year, I get there around 11 am and everything is gone. One year I even got there at 9 am and the shelf was already picked clean. So I've learned to buy it ahead of time. Here is the list of hot holiday toys for 2011.

Lesson #3: My nerves will be shot by the end of the day

I honestly hardly do any shopping on Black Friday and here is why: it is too crowded, the roads are jammed, the check-out lines are insane. But I still go out every year because I guess I love being out in the craziness. We usually head out to Target first, then the mall and then go out to eat.

Lesson #4: Sometimes it's better to do non-shopping stuff

One year, we went and got breakfast, did a little shopping and saw the "Christmas Carol" movie. It was more laid-back than previous years.

Lesson #5: Bring the coupons and rewards cards

A few days before Black Friday, I get my coupons ready to go. I also bring my rewards card, such as to Red Robin, TGI Friday's or Outback. It's always nice to get points!

Lesson #6: Deals don't take a holiday

Whether I am going out on Black Friday to photograph the craziness (and upload to the blog for everyone to see), or working Thanksgiving Day and Black Friday, you know you'll find all the deals here!

And A Look Back at Past Black Fridays:

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