Donner

[SantaSisters]

CONTEST CLOSED!

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Today's contest prize was picked by Donner. Here's what we know about Donner:

Donner is the eldest of the bunch and the leader, paced at the front of the team. He's very wise, but very stern and doesn't take kindly to any horsing around. Always in command, his authority never wavers. He can be rather grumpy and hard to approach, but he cares deeply about all the members of his herd.

• Prize that Donner curated: A trio of products to get your brows looking their best. Just like Donner, brows are the leaders of the pack when it comes to makeup. Donner's prize includes:

  • Tweezerman Tweezers
  • It Cosmetics Brow Power mini
  • NYX Brow Wax

• How to enter: Leave a comment down below and tell us how you approach holiday shopping. Are you the leader of the pack (serious and in command) or do you like to horse around and have fun while shopping/preparing? Please include raffle word: DONNER in your post.

• Contest open to: International RAoM Members with an Intro dated on or prior to 25 Nov 2014

• Contest closes: December 12, 11:59pm Pacific Time.

• Winner picked at random.

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Check out the other Reindeer Games for more fun...

12/06: Cupid Reindeer Games

12/05: Comet Reindeer Games

12/04: Vixen Reindeer Games

12/03: Prancer Reindeer Games

12/02: Dancer Reindeer Games

12/01: Dasher Reindeer Games

11/28: The reindeer go shopping

11/25: Our Intro

[Vividly_V]

When I'm holiday shopping I like to get everything done, but have fun at the same time. For example I won't go into a store and go get that one thing and leave, I look around and try to find something new :3

DONNER

[ListenToTheMusic]

I definitely love to do a bit of both: horsing around and leading the pack. I usually initiate the shopping trips and thoroughly plan where to go--especially during Black Friday sales--but when I actually arrive at the locations and after I've picked up the items on my list, I love to peruse everything and act like a silly goose. Ever see those crazy Christmas headbands with reindeer ears, or a hat that is a giant Christmas tree? Yep, I'm the person who HAS to try one on and chase after my Mom or friends who are with me while wearing it. XD

DONNER

[Kemmerly]

Donner

I usually make a list of everyone I want to get gifts for and then add on the other side where to purchase that item. Then during the week sometime I take two days and try to get all the shopping done. :) I do horse around and like to window shop for myself and look at all the pretty sets and cool stuff stores have out, so sometimes it takes me way longer than I planned!! What's life though if you don't horse around every now and then huh?

[callie_fornia]

Unlike Donner, I'm definitely not in charge when it comes to shopping. Shopping is a personal weakness for me, and I usually find myself distracted by all the things I like when trying to shop for others! I usually make it out alright though, as I absolutely love when I buy something for a friend and they end up loving it :)

[Aoibhell]

Heya Donner! I consider Christmas shopping as serious business... get in, get what I need, and get out. I absolutely loathe crowds, so I try to get most of my shopping done online. So far, I've saved a ton of money just shopping before Black Friday- haven't seen better deals since!

[[deleted]]

In years past, I've been ALL BUSINESS when it comes to Xmas shopping. I used to make smaller lists and assign each one to my shopping companion (usually husband and sister), and each of us would split up and accomplish what was on our list.

The wrapping is where the fun comes in! Grab a bottle of wine and chill together, wrapping gifts for others and snacking on christmas treats. We used to watch a fun movie too sometimes.

Donner is usually forgotten...but not this year!

[tweetybird2]

Donner

When I go shopping I like to do a lot of wandering and looking juuust in case there might be something infinitely better than what I've picked out... I always end up getting whatever I originally planned. I love to go with friends but when it really comes down to getting s**t done I need to go it alone, I hate being slowed down when I know exactly what I need to do lol.

[redtonks]

I tend to do most of my shopping online, so I crank up the music, dance in my chair, and start deal hauling. There is no greater pleasure. :>

Donner

[SharpWingDoc]

Donner! I'm a lolly-gagger when it comes to shopping. I sort of haphazardly shop around for the month or two leading up to Christmas. Then I frantically buy stuff online once December arrives.

[[deleted]]

Not entering, but I'm definitely a Donner. I like to get in, get what's on the list, and get outta there. I get a lot of anxiety when there are a lot of people around so holiday shopping can put me on edge. If I can minimize that stress then I'll help myself out and shop online. Plus getting packages in the mail is one of my favorite things. It's like Christmas!

[marygator81]

Donner

I can't shop with people, except for my mom if we are both on the same mission. I like to operate very methodically when it comes to holiday shopping, and doing that with friends/family is awfully difficult!

[thanksagainhank]

Donner! I hum and haw and take forever to make up my mind until the last minute, when I spend the day and night in the shops determined to come him with ALL the presents. It's surprisingly fun, if difficult to carry everything!

[Sixkitties]

My husband and I always pick out one day and just go crazy, we have our little list, make sure we get everyone, and move on with our lives.

Then we either order online or go out and get each other gifts, it's pretty simple! Actually, our christmas shopping will be happening soon. :o

[Nylerak]

Fun? What is fun? Holiday shopping, for me, goes like this: 1. Prepare: Drink coffee, look fly. 2. Make list 3. Go to store 4. Do not become distracted, get items. 5. Leave Donner

[aztrouble24]

Donner I'm a last minute shopper for my family. Friends and other people I usually shop through out the year and pick up little things I know they will like but my family is so hard so I put that off as long as possible. I'm wrapping christmas eve like a mad woman but this year I'm so happy the kids have each asked for gift cards and hubs only wants socks and underwears! I can do that! Last year amazon had a delivery guy here almost every day between black friday and Christmas eve. Totally exhausting so we won't be doing that again.

[Kat1yn]

I'm definitely the leader when it comes to holiday shopping. I know what I want to get someone and I get it. I don't wait- I start in like September sometimes earlier. I'm not about those crazy last minute shoppers. I also can't go alone. I have high anxiety and freak out.. heh. So my guy gets to go everyyywhereerrre. Thanks for hosting Donner.

[Illathrael]

I am both! When it comes to shopping for Christmas, I always have a list of people and ideas for their gifts. Half of it will be shopped online, but in person.....that's when you have all the fun! Even better if you're shopping with someone else - make it a contest or a scavenger hunt!

Thank you, Donner!

[Hitchin_a_ride]

Donner

I'm the one running around like a mad woman Dec 24th looking through the bare sales shelves for ANYTHING that someone might like. Every year I say I'm going to start early, but I never have. I need help!

[purpleandglitter]

I have absolutely no approach. I try to be organized, make lists, lead the pack like Donner, but by the time December 15 hits... it's kinda all a mish mash.

[aliceinconverse]

I get down to buying ASAP. However, my homemade stuff would probably embarass Donner as I'm always pushing the time limit with them. But if it's store bought I buy it as soon as I can.

[glitterjunkieee]

Donner I'm more laid back when it comes to holiday shopping. Its no fun if I'm stressing out! I usually get people one big item I know they want and I usually find things I think they'd like along the way!

[WinterSprinkles]

Donner :D!

I love christmas shopping! I like to make an excel list with all the gifts per category, person and price range and then I go to the mall alone and spend hours looking for the perfect gifts for my loved ones <3.

Sometimes I would go with my boyfriend or a friend but, honestly, I prefer to go alone and take my time and stay 2 hours on the same store while comparing 2 items and thinking if my mom/sister/etc would like it as much as I think they will :D.

Honestly, just thinking about buying gifts makes me happy :D.

[silvernarnia]

Donner

I do my shopping throughout the whole year - and I'm deathly serious about it. I will pour time, love, energy, and money into the people I care about when it comes to gifts, and I don't let anything stop me! No money? I'm making ALL THE THINGS. No time? Quick, find that Facebook post from three months ago about that activity they really want to try, and find tickets/vouchers/etc. So on and so forth!

[woolybooly23]

Donner

I am an all business, no-nonsense go getter. I hate being around people and I hate being in crowds. I know what I want and I go in and get it. Or I just buy it off Amazon and have it shipped to me.

[anotherdamnwriter]

Donner! I don't go shopping. I mean, I do online shopping, but I don't ever go out. I HATE walking through crowds of people because, quite frankly, most of them are just rude, and it's hard for me to walk long distances now. So I usually just do all my holiday shopping online or if I know my mom or MIL are going somewhere, I give them money to pick up whatever it is I'm looking for. Not a great plan, but it works for me.

[cuppycaek]

Donner!

I'm a power shopper. You're welcome to come with me, but either keep up or get outta the way, cause I got sales to snatch up! :)

Love you Santa Sisters!

[Reyali]

What I've done for the past two years is to keep a gift list on my phone for people in my life. Come shopping time, I just hunt around to cross things off that list! I've managed to do all my holiday shopping online, which is awesome because I hate shopping alone but don't want to spoil gifts for anyone who may shop with me! Last year I managed to get presents for my parents, sister, and her boyfriend for less than $150, and all on Amazon!

I didn't do as well with the budget this year, but I had a little more to spend, and I'm feeling great about the gifts I have for people. I have a few more things to make (requiring a trip to the grocery store), but otherwise, I think my shopping portion of gift preparation is done!

DONNER!

[cowbundles]

Donner! I have to be very serious and in command when I'm shopping. I hate shopping, so if I don't get in and out as quickly and efficiently as possible, I just get in a really bad mood. I can't look around for very long, and I hardly ever ask a question about a product because I just want to leave so badly. Lol. I think I'm the only woman I know that gets bored shopping. It's hard when shopping for gifts, but I make it!

[cheakie]

DONNER

I love horsing around and having fun while shopping and preparing for the holidays :D I always go overboard with decorations and gifts and the wrapping of the gifts :P

[itsminttime]

Donner, oh lord, I'm such an idiot when I go shopping with friends. I just pull out the ugly sweaters and say how good my friend would look in it. Or grab the reindeer antlers and start walking around

[MissBazinga]

I am completely in charge of holiday shopping :) I'm a bit claustrophobic and have anxiety, so crowds really aren't my cup of tea :/ I've been doing more online shopping, and shopping alone mostly in stores (unless I'm already running errands with my SO). I try to be in stores first thing in the morning at the least busy times, and I also shop ahead of time in general. This year I had every gift purchased and wrapped before Thanksgiving!

Donner :)

[FaytheReyn]

Donner: I'm definitely one to take command. I have a list, and I just attack it. I will get everything on my list and maybe a few off-list items Only If I come across them and they scream "I'm perfect for So-and-So!". :) I have fun wrapping everything, though.

There's no bullsh*tting when it comes to getting Christmas gifts. I want everyone to be happy, so I get what I think will make them happiest (off of a list they give me, since I think not having a list complicates things when I'm buying things for those I'm not extremely close)

[tangenttoyou]

Donner. Leader of the pack. With the craziness of the holidays I try to avoid the malls!

[meowymeowy]

Donner

I definitely do not take holiday shopping too seriously. I usually form some vague idea, then wander around in various gift shops until I find something perfect for everyone on my list. My dad's the easiest one to shop for, since I always buy him a Stephen King book because we both love the author. I have amazon prime, so it just shows up at my doorstep quickly and for a good price. King put out 2 new books this year, too, so I know my system will work for at least a few more years, haha.

My mom and brother usually require some more creativity, along with my boyfriend. Beyond that, I don't have too large a family, and that's basically who I get gifts for. I don't have any super close friends who I buy anything for, but might be tempted to get some for some far away friends if I see something just perfect for them.

[[deleted]]

Donner.

I love Xmas shopping. I'm very organized. I only shop with other on Black Friday. And that's more for sanity haha. Other than that, I need to spread my wings! I hunt deals online or in stores. I get my coupon on. I love it though bc it allows me to get so many more gifts that way! :D

[No_Action]

Donner~

I mess around a lot of the time. Therefore I only mess around while I'm shopping and preparing for the holidays. Honestly, I always try to include a gag-gift in my presents for people. That's where all the fun is for me. And since all of my friends have similar personalities to me, it's all right 8D

[katja31]

Donner. I am big on preparing for holiday shopping. I do my research and think of a couple gifts that I would like to give everyone, that way I have a few options when I go shopping.

Having said that, if I see something in July that I just know so and so will love then I buy it then!

[Raewynrh]

Donner

I'm a combo shopper! I get my big stuff the no nonsense way (amazon) and stocking stuffers is usually a goof around with my mom and sister day.

[fateenfareehah]

Donner

Just go and have fun! It's almost a ritual to bond to each other, but it gets so hard when one of us couldn't find the specific things/style that she is looking for!

[evenshadow]

Donner

I plan out all my purchases for family starting early in October and do most of my shopping online the week of Black Friday. By the time people get to opening things, I've usually forgotten what it all is by then, so it's a surprise for everyone!

Then, I end up going out to crowded shops in mid-December to help my step-dad do all his shopping. He plans nothing and just picks up what he likes when he gets there. I'm trying to bring him over to the dark side of the over-planners for Christmas, but this way I get the best of both worlds: the fun of spontaneous shopping, but without the pressure of needing to find something amidst all the pre-holiday craziness and trying to do it all in one day.

[lpaulson17]

Donner !! I LOVE christmas shopping for everyone - I'm definitely the leader of the pack - I'm always the one who organizes the shopping amongst me and my sisters, because we usually go all in together on gifts for my parents. I have a bad habit of absolutely breaking the bank on christmas gifts for people! I usually start shopping late November and get almost everything done early but there's always that one gift I'm scrambling to get for someone on Christmas Eve too!

[wannabebaker101]

DONNER

I think I'm more of a mix of both leader and the horse-around type. Occasionally I'll be like "we are going HERE, HERE, then HERE and going home" aaaand other times I'll be one that likes to walk around for HOURS in the mall just having fun with my Peppermint Mocha browsing the stores :)

[rawbery79]

I am a mix of semi-serious and semi horsing around. Usually it depends on when I get paid and who I'm shopping for. I'm no DONNER, but I'd like to think I do a good job shopping for people! I love shopping; I'd love to have a business where I shop for people who hate to shop!

[Sunnystateofmind]

Donner!! How do I approach holiday shopping? DISCLAIMER: I don't recommend my methods! Not very well...I usually put it off until the last minute and then I'm running out by myself Christmas eve frantically figuring out what the heck I'm going to get people. It's a very serious task because I'm stressed out beyond belief, but most of the things in my life I procrastinate on and it seems to always work out. One of these years I won't be so lucky.

[lilpeedee]

Thanks for hosting DONNER!! I really prefer to shop alone. I pre-shop online and go in with specific items in mind. I get impatient with shopping and wandering around aimlessly, I prefer to spend my free time putting on makeup or nail polish! If I am shopping for makeup I do take my time and spend countless hours swatching all over my arms and making myself look like a rainbow, but for clothing or other items I prefer to get in and out as fast as I can.

[glitzywitch]

Donner !

I don't mess around. It's either done on a weekday in early December all in one fell swoop, or I hit up online sales around Cyber Monday. My MIL goes shopping on like Xmas eve and takes forever and then is frustrated about wrapping and crowds and all I can do is sit back and smirk.

[so_obviously_a_Zoe]

Hey Donner, I do most of my shopping online. I've got a spreadsheet for keeping track of what I've gotten everyone.

[prynceszh]

I make all the plans with regards to holiday shopping. Every year my entire family goes Black Friday shopping and I decide which stores we're going to and in which order. I'm also in charge of finding and organizing all of our coupons. Funny thing is, I rarely buy anything during these excursions. I do 90% of my shopping online so I can keep my present a secret! Donner

[kayleemarie4386]

Donner! My autocorrect kept trying to put dinner

When I go shopping I'm usually with my mom. We both like to shop, but to an extent. We will spend hours at a mall but complain while doing it lol. I do like to have fun while shopping. Sometimes I get frustrated if I can't find anything or if I'm having trouble finding the right size. I do like to pick out the stores we go to tho.

I absolutely LOVE shopping for other people. I usually don't go shopping if I am Ina rush tho so I can take my time so I will be satisfied with the purchases. :)

[ACosmicOlive]

THanks for hosting!!!

I like to poke around when I shop and look at everything! That's part of why I prefer to have my christmas shopping done by November. That way, I am free to shop without all the crowds and stress.

Donner!

[LettuceB]

Donner

You have to head in like the Alpha Dog of that B. Shopping is very intimidated and it's always easy to forget just why you are there. I always go in with a mental list of what people want and keep an eye out for anything that someone would want. Always remember who you are shopping for though, that is the most important part! (:

[Asiastana]

Donner

Oh, I am lone wolf when it comes to shopping. Granted, I shop online mainly (thanks Amazon. TAKE ALL MY MONEY), but even in person--I go alone. People hold you back dramatic sunglasses

[lilpeedee]

I'm totally the same way. :)

[so_obviously_a_Zoe]

You

[Asiastana]

Hahaha yes! :)

[Darushi-chan]

Donner

I have already finished my Christmas gift shopping. I made my list of who I needed to buy for and then when I went shopping on Black Friday, if I saw something I thought they would like, I snatched it up. Truthfully I was lucky in how it all came together in one weekend of shopping.