Today is Day 1 of my holiday shopping blitz.

Yes… I’m breaking my usual pattern of buying gifts at the last minute.

Starting today… you will see me in any of Calgary’s biggest malls – powering my way through crowds – trying to get through the checkout line in as little time possible.

I feel good about what lies ahead.

I’m pumped to begin.

I’m hydrating.

I’m ready to hit the stores.

To help with the marathon… I am promising myself five things: 5) I will stick to my list (well… if I had one) 4) I will block out all Christmas music by wearing my iPod 3) I will not get lured into the Apple store to buy myself something shiny 2) I will listen to my Mom and wear underwear without holes 1) Most importantly… I will keep my head-up

Yes… what my hockey coach drilled into me applies off the ice: if you don’t keep your head-up you’re going to get hurt.

Here’s hoping I don’t get a black eye from the elbows being thrown right now.

Share some of your holiday shopping horror stories below…

(don’t forget to look for your secret word and to enter it for points)