I’ve written more than once about my love for Amazon, and I like a good bargain as much as the next girl. But yesterday I went to Cartersville to meet a friend for lunch and found myself wandering through small, locally owned shops. I found some amazing things and met some really nice people. 

We talked about favorite dishes at local restaurants and about relocating to the area from out of state. I browsed and marveled at the coolness and uniqueness of handmade and specialty items, a much-needed breath of fresh air. 

I picked up a couple of gifts and made a mental note to visit the shops again. This Saturday, in addition to being my mom’s birthday and the date of a little football game I have my eye on, is Small Business Saturday. 

Wander through some local shops, pick up a few gifts and give the local economy — and your neighbors — a boost. Amazon will be fine without us for the day.