We moved earlier this year and I love our new town. Truly love it. Desperately want it to thrive.

That love has changed my life.

In the past, my husband and I dined out primarily on our anniversary and when traveling. We were happy to wait for movies to appear on DVDs. When we shopped, it was usually by keyboard.

All of that has changed.

Now we go to the movies at our independent theater almost weekly because we want that theater to be here. It is a wonderful asset for our community.

We eat at local restaurants much, much more often than in the past because we want these restaurants to be here. Each one, even those that aren’t favorites, enriches our community.

We check local stores first when we need something because we want these stores to be here. We love to see them delightfully busy and tastefully maintained.

We take guests shopping, out to dinner—even candlepin bowling if they are up for a laugh.

We want to protect the vibrancy of our community and that requires healthy businesses and organizations that serve our community and send paychecks home with local residents.

The magnitude of my shift became particularly clear this week when I visited a local store to make a significant purchase. When it came time to pay, I pulled out my money and my phone with the 20% off coupon I’d gotten by email. Then I slid that phone back into my pocket, effectively crumpling the coupon. This store owed me nothing. I was glad to pay full price. They are always there for us. They and their employees deserve a living wage.

Do you love your community?

If so, be a local hero, especially when shopping this holiday season. It feels great to protect and nurture your own community.

But wherever you shop, breathe deeply and smile your way through a wonderful holiday season!