Ah yes, it’s that time of year again. I’m told these winter traditions were once about family, related to historical and religious events. But I’m only aware of breaking out the plastic to get some serious shopping done.
Today, once referred to as Thanksgiving, is Black Friday Eve – when merchant circulars showcasing tomorrows deals hit – and in keeping with tradition, I do give thanks. Many specials have been leaked online in the weeks leading up to the big event, but what’s new this year is that many deals are available via the web (as early as: RIGHT NOW) without waiting for that blasphemous Cyber Monday.
So what are we getting?
I started early and picked up Rock Band ($170) yesterday. I don’t like the drums as much as I thought I would, but I prefer the guitar hardware over GH III ($100). Tomorrow, I’ll check out the Apple Store online and might purchase the overpriced router ($180) if they shave a few bucks off. Speaking of Apple, Microsoft is offering one heck of a deal I’ll put to use: Purchase any edition of Mac Office 2004 (as low as $125 on Amazon) and get a $100 rebate PLUS a free copy (minus $7 shipping) of Office 2008 in January. As far as camping out, forget it. We got to Best Buy (in upstate New York) last year before 5AM and the line wrapped around the store exterior – which was our cue to return to the hotel and get some more sleep. Tomorrow morning, I’ll swing by Staples to make a play for the Navigon 2100T GPS at $99 (I’ve dumped my Mio dedicated GPS and Telenav service), but if there’s any sort of lines or commotion I’m comfortable bailing and coming home empty handed. We remember the Cabbage Patch Kids.
Mari’s doing her research using Retrevo and still loves those digital photo frames — She’s picked up a few 8″ Westinghouse units for family. Since her husband reads ZNF, Mari can’t reveal what cool gadgets he might be getting.
Brent’s still looking for good Wii games, and Link’s Crossbow training which comes with the new Wii Zapper ($25) is on his short list. SageTV‘s HD media extender, due next month, has also caught his eye.
We all seem to be exploring new digital cameras. I say Mari needs an upgrade, but she’s looking for her brother. I’m getting close to pulling the trigger on an entry-level dSLR like the Nikon D40 (~$500). Though Brent spotted a nice deal (that he’ll be notifying his family of) on the Canon SD750 for $220 – and I do prefer pocketable cameras.
What are you eyeing? Any good deals we need to know about?