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.
The New York Times catches up with Dean’s story today (12/14/07): http://www.nytimes.com/2007/12/14/technology/14wii.html?ex=1355374800&en=569a8cb874b7321c&ei=5124&partner=permalink&exprod=permalink
Dean – I enjoyed reading this blog — and LIVING the adventure first hand! I’m glad the boys will have their Wii for Christmas! Merry, merry.
Wow! Great photo! You look like you just won the lotto. I’ve been looking for a Wii for weeks now. Guess my kids will have to make due with “Pretendo” instead of Nintendo. I hope you and your family have a very merry Christmas!
I was there as Dean got the recon word and tore out of the office. Glad to hear that the excursion was successful! Merry Christmas.
I was lurking the Burris site for job opportunities and found this post very funny. I remember being 13 and saving for almost a year every scrap of change or allowance and then having to do the same sort of raids for a Nintendo 64. I found it, even running into a store on the day after thanksgiving. Very fun though from my perspective.