Well the election is over... and we can return to a slightly "normal" life.

The holidays are right around the corner and with that comes hours of shopping, deciding and planning. When talking with a group of friends recently, they gave me the impression that they still do the majority of their holiday shopping online.

"It's just easier and I don't have to leave my house" - claims one of my friends.

Well what about the small businesses in your community? They don't always have an online store and it's hard to compete with the Targets of the world.

Why not vow to take one day and visit some local businesses to cross some of those gifts off your shopping list?

Small Business Saturday is an American shopping holiday created by American Express, held on the Saturday after Thanksgiving during one of the busiest shopping periods of the year. First celebrated on November 27, 2010, it is a counterpart to Black Friday and Cyber Monday, which feature big box retail and e-commerce stores respectively. By contrast, Small Business Saturday encourages holiday shoppers to patronize brick and mortar businesses that are small and local.

Many businesses in the Muskego area participate on this special day dedicated to supporting businesses in the community. Look for the special "Small Business Saturday" logo at your local shops and restaurants to see who is participating this year.

--Hint: Leaves Floral Design & Gift Boutique is hosting a fantastic holiday open house that day.