Black Friday 2010: We want the deals of our lives

The holiday season is critical. Combined November-December sales can account for as much as 50% of stores' sales and profits for the full year. In the past couple of years, black Friday sales have dipped from their norms due to the Great Recession. This year however, experts believe sales will increase from years past, driven by high and middle income families who feel more secure about their employment situation.

A new wrinkle in the Black Friday madness is the sweeping trend to open stores earlier. Many department stores nationwide, Walmart included, will be opening at Midnight this year. As it has been a theme every year, Black Friday, and Christmas for that matter, is being pushed earlier and earlier. Although great for the economy, I foresee political action stemming in the form of protests in the near future. Personally, I believe our country is moving too far away from "giving thanks" and moving too close to thanking ourselves.