Every year on Black Friday, my mom, sister and I go into the city of Chicago and shop. When I tell people that, most look at me as if I'm crazy. How could I shop on Black Friday, let alone in one of the busiest cities? When I think about it, it does sound a little crazy, but I wouldn't ever think of doing anything else.

The reason I Black Friday shop isn't to get a TV for half price or to stand in lines starting at 3 am. I love the deals, of course, and typically get a new sweater or pair of shoes or a couple other things for a good deal, but honestly I do it for the experience.

I love going into all the stores the day after Thanksgiving and seeing all the Christmas decorations. It's the first day of the true Christmas season and I love it. It starts feeling more like the holidays, and everyone is shopping around for loved ones. People can be rude, yes, but most people are friendly and talkative while you wait in line to purchase your few items at Old Navy.

I like the challenge of looking through all the clothes, shoes, and purses trying to find the best deals I can. I feel so accomplished after finding something I really wanted or needed for a good price, and nothing is more satisfying than knowing how much money you're saving all because you were able to get through the crowds of people and shop.

I like being able to get my Christmas shopping done early. I take this day to use the deals as an advantage and get all of my Christmas shopping done, which feels so good. I get it all done in one day, and then can just relax until Christmas when I give my friends and family the gifts I picked out for them.

Yes, the lines are long and people can be crabby and you have to squeeze through crowds of people, but I truly do enjoy it. I guess I can't fully explain it but the experience gives me a rush. I've been doing it forever with my sister and mom, and maybe the tradition and aspect of spending time with them is most of it, but I look forward to it every year.

If you're going shopping this Black Friday, please stay safe, patient, and kind. People are there for the same reasons as you, and we all need to show that we are better than those awful people on the news that trample and/or hurt others. We are above that, and I hope to never have to see that side of Black Friday. Enjoy the holidays, and good luck on your shopping adventure!