As I used to say when I was little, "Shop 'til drop! Shop 'til drop!" Years later, that remains my mantra during the holiday shopping season. What a blessed time of year, isn't it ladies (and few select gentlemen)? From the moment the clock strikes midnight the day after Thanksgiving, it's game time!

I haven't always felt this way, though! I used to love nothing more than staying home on that wretched non-holiday to help my mom trim the tree and hang lights all over the house. However, right around the time I went away to college, I decided I must experience this so-called Black Friday for myself. But I was going to do it from a safe distance. Yes, I'd enter the craziness that became department stores. Yes, I'd watch people run around as if the item they were in pursuit of was being discontinued forever. I might even make a small purchase. Who could tell!? But I promised myself I wouldn't get sucked in.

An armful of stuff and two hours in line at Kohl's later, I realized it was too late. That's just it, isn't it? That quest for a great deal? That high you feel when you find it? The rush that comes with knowing you've beaten everyone else to it?

Now, I'm not going to lie and tell you Steuben County doesn't get a little crazy during the holiday shopping season, but believe me, after experiencing the craziness of the mall, I'd pick shopping on Corning's Market Street in a heartbeat. Not only is the atmosphere more relaxed, but you're able to find one-of-a-kind gifts that everyone on your list is sure to cherish.

Holidazzle marks the perfect time to kick off that holiday shopping season. On November 11-13, enjoy shopping promotions and savings at more than 25 downtown businesses. Go on a fun, new scavenger hunt at participating businesses and be entered to win a hot gift item for this year: the Kindle® Fire e-reader!

Another option is attending the annual Holiday Family Festival: A Tradition of Arts & Crafts on November 19 at Corning-Painted Post East High School. "(The festival) has been providing the region with a unique shopping experience offering hand-made and custom crafts for nearly 30 years," said Molly Mulligan, manager of events at the Corning Area Chamber of Commerce. "We are excited to have products including jewelry, photography, hunting accessories, bath and body products, alpaca fiber products, holiday-inspired wreaths, garlands and decor, gift-style food items such as German roasted nuts and gourmet chocolates. Basically, something for everyone on your list - and a little something for you too!" In addition to the arts and crafts, there will be photos with Santa, a visit from the Ross Park Zoo, and lunch items to keep you full while you shop, Mulligan said.

This year's Window of Gifts Giveaway kicks off at the Holiday Family Festival. Enter to win gift certificates and gift card packages from dozens of Gaffer District businesses. This year's event will feature four prize winners, with drawing dates every Wednesday beginning November 30.

Think about it... if you take advantage of all the great shopping activities in Corning & the Finger Lakes, you'll be finished before Black Friday rolls around to begin with. And if you just can't find all your perfect gifts on Market Street, shop the Village Square in Hammondsport or visit Hornell. Get all of your holiday shopping done without ever stepping foot in a shopping center. Now doesn't that sound enticing? No huge crowds, no lines half a mile long. A stress-free shopping experience. Sounds like the perfect way to start off the holiday season to me!