I know a lot of people who looove Black Friday. Me? Not so much. With me, Black Friday takes a back seat to Taco Tuesday, Enchilada Wednesday and the all-important Margarita Monday.
OK, I know there are deals to be had if you brave the crowds at 4 a.m., because, well, 'Murica! Amirite?!
But just because it's Black Friday, doesn't mean that every deal is a good one. In fact there are some things you should AVOID on Black Friday, so you can have more cash in your wallet for important things like, I dunno, maybe Taco Tuesday.
1. Christmas Decorations
Christmas decorations aren't typically on your shopping list for Black Friday, but retailers are also counting on impulse buying. STEP AWAY FROM THE STRAND OF ICICLE LIGHTS. That stuff will be a lot cheaper the closer we get to Christmas and they'll almost be giving them away on Dec. 26.
2. Toys
OK, I know you're going to see some pretty good TOY deals on Black Friday. But, if you want to get a really GOOD deal, wait until about two weeks before Christmas. That's when retailers begin wondering why they stocked so many effin' Tickle-Me-Mama-June's and start marking them down. The only exception to this rule is that ONE TOY that EVERYBODY wants. If there's one on your list, then give up pal, those have been on back order since Labor Day.
3. Brand Name HDTVs
You want a great new TV for Christmas? Black Friday is not your friend for anything approaching a brand name. You'll see deals on TV's you never heard of. And while I know that Kazakhstan makes some damn fine electronics, you're better off waiting until January for that purchase. If you want the best deal on a name brand TV, then shop 10 days before the Super Bowl and you'll get a lot more bang for your buck.
4. Winter Apparel
If you think your family is lusting after winter apparel for Christmas, just know that I'll pray for your misguided soul. NOBODY ever wanted a coat for Christmas, unless it was a ridiculously expensive leather or fur coat that you can't afford anyway. If winter apparel is on your list, hold off until January and shop the clearance sales.
5. Jewelry and Watches
When it comes to jewelry, Christmas sales are no better than Valentine's Day. Retailers are counting on you being distracted by something shiny, or guilt, or alcohol, to fuel that purchase. If you want a better deal, wait until spring or summer. You'll have a lot more money to enjoy Margarita Monday, trust me.
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Prepare your own Mexican quick fix with this Chipotle-inspired bowl. Carbs are moderated by filling the bowl with beans, extra veggies and chicken. No need for rice, since the beans count as carbs.
Tips:
If you love tomatoes, increase the quantity to 1/2 cup, but note that the carbohydrates will also increase.
If preparing this recipe for one person, cut all of the ingredients in half. Or simply prepare the full recipe up to the end of step 2 and store leftover chicken and vegetable-bean mixture in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave on High for 1 to 2 minutes, or until heated through, and continue with step 3.
Health Bite: The iron, calcium, magnesium, manganese, copper and zinc in black beans help to keep bones strong and healthy.
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