Every year black Friday seems to become a bigger deal. And every year I refuse to take part in it. It seems ridiculous to me to spend the day after ThanksGIVING spending money buying new things. Thanksgiving is a time to be with family, relax, and enjoy the holiday of finding what we are grateful for. And some how, over time that has translated into buying everything on sale and cramming into a packed mall to compete with others to get the best deal. Instead of participating in black Friday in the future, I urge you to try spending your time in some other ways.

Spend Time With Family

Yes, yesterday was Thanksgiving and yes, you're probably sick of your family already, but find a way to spend the day with family in a way everyone will enjoy. Whether thats playing board games, having a movie marathon, or going for a hike, any of these options beat waiting in lines at the mall and blowing your money.

Go Outside

After all the food consumed the night before, whats better than going out and getting some exercise? This year I enjoyed a nice beach hike with my family and dog and it was wonderful. I felt relaxed and happy knowing I was burning some of the calories from the night before as well as spending time with my family and enjoying the outdoors.

Take Part in Green Friday

This may be one of the COOLEST ideas I have ever heard. In 2015, Green Friday was created in US national parks. This means all national parks were open to the public for FREE! The idea was to help promote getting outside and exploring instead of spending the day shopping in malls and stuck in lines. Make this a new thanksgiving tradition and turn your black Friday green.

Have Fun Making Leftover Meals

One of my favorite things about thanksgiving is the leftovers. One idea I absolutely love is using the day after Thanksgiving to try new recipes and make food with the family. My favorite is turkey soup. This way you'll free up some refrigerator space, plus make some new exciting foods out of all the leftovers!

So next black Friday, at least consider spending the time in another way. Consider all the ways you could enjoy the day after thanksgiving instead of spending it in a mall. Try to continue the ideas of Thanksgiving and sharing with others for the days, weeks, and months to come following Thursday.