The Idea Blog

My boys want a Wii for Christmas. I thought, “No big deal. You run by Target. You buy a Wii.” Then Lyn Rollins, the Burris shopping expert, informed me how impossible it was to get your hands on a Wii. It wasn’t long before I concluded she was right. Based on a “tip,” I spent time in line with other parents in front of the Target doors an hour before they opened one Sunday, only for an employee to come out and tell us to go home. Morning after morning I conducted pre-dawn raids at WalMarts only to find bare shelves.

I contemplated raids on other towns. Paying double on Amazon. Buying a different brand game system.

And then, the power of network reconnaissance turned in my favor. One thousand thank yous to Lyn’s mother, who called from one side of town to inform her/me that she discovered there were three Wiis at the WalMart on my side of town.

Like a fighter pilot, I scrambled hotly to my 92 Volvo heap and was there inside of seven minutes. And luck was on my side as there were just enough left. One for me and one for my recon partner.

So yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. And she drives a gold minivan with a license plate on the front that says “Rollins.” If you see that van coming toward you, make way.