Black Friday is a dark and depressing phrase given to the biggest shopping day of the year. The term is cold, impersonal and doesn’t ring with Holiday Cheer. Nevertheless, I like so many other bargain shoppers, scavengers, and thrill seekers LOVE IT. I’m not sure if it is the thrill of the hunt, the smell of savings, or the pure satisfaction of beating retailers at the markup game. Whatever it is, count me in.

I start my game plan on Thursday. I don’t anticipate the smell or taste of food served at Thanksgiving Dinner, just the newspaper ads filled with all of those delicious Friday doorbusters. After I pull out the important ads and circle my sought out items, I begin to map out my route. And yes, that route will more than likely begin at 5am, a ridiculous time that the crazy shopping masses have forced retailers to start. After my stores, items, and route has been determined, I can move on to clothing.

If you’re still reading, and I’m sure my bargain soul sisters are, then you’re probably wondering what clothes have to do with anything. Wearing heavy clothes can hold you back, bulk you down, and increase your irritability in a crowded store. My advice is to dress as light as the outside elements will possibly allow you and take advantage of fleece. This year, my strategy will involve showing off my pregnant tummy. I’m not sure how far it will get me; there are some ruthless shoppers in this rat race of all shapes, sizes and ages. But maybe, just maybe, it will help me get the one item that will make the completely crazy day worth it.

For those of you who prefer to skip the madness, I’ve set up a web page devoted to Black Friday deals and steals. You don’t have to leave the warmth and security of your own home. Just make it to the computer. The sales will begin on 11/23 with some of them lasting all weekend, including special sales for Cyber Monday, the online world’s ceremonial kick-off day of shopping.

Good luck, happy hunting, make peace with the fact you might only get 2-3 things you really want, and watch your back!