I opened up Yahoo this morning for my email and saw a news report that shoplifting is up this Christmas season.

Last night on the world news they reported that people were running, pushing, shoving, and even shooting over some Air Jordan's that were on sale.

Another story was a guy who decided to shoplift a $79 VCR, except he picked the wrong time -- the store was sponsoring a Shop with a Cop event. The guy admitted what he did was stupid, but not once did he say he was sorry he stole something.

Bah. Humbug.

All this insanity for stuff. I like things, but I'm not going to get in a fight for a pair of shoes, no matter how trendy they are.

On the positive side, they did an update on the report about "angels" who paid off other folks' layaway. Very uplifting and inspiring that they didn't give their names and hence no credit.

Our local food pantries reported that demand was certainly up and the one we support reported they gave out over 380 Christmas baskets. There were other agencies who also gave out baskets. Our town has over 70,000 folks and then there are little towns nearby. what a great need in this economy.

I think this puts it in perspective...I don't want to guilt anyone into thinking they shouldn't buy presents for their friends and family. I know I did and was the happy recipient of some nice things.

But, fighting to get a pair of shoes and the news report said that most were listed on Ebay soon after...

I hope the news is good at your home and that you have a wonderful Christmas and that you are satisfied with what you have and have the contentment of a group of loving family and friends!

Merry Christmas!