Cross border shopping is a time honoured Canadian tradition, especially for those of us lucky enough to live within spitting distance of several crossing points. And recently tightened security measures haven't done much to put a dent in the flow of those cars fill with eager deal seekers, particularly in light of the abnormally strong Canadian Dollar right now. It certainly didn't deter my family as we once again piled the Ladies into the car, plugged in their headphones, and hit the road in search of Outlet Mall Nirvana.

This time our destination wasn't quite so epic, just a quick jaunt across to the Saginaw region of Michigan. My mom wanted to visit the World's Largest Christmas Store, and thought it would be fun to make a weekend of it. Given that it was the first School Appreciation Day Professional Development Day of the year, I was all for her plan, which had originally involved playing hooky.

The Ladies had a good time. They're always up for staying in a motel, and the mountain of ice cream they ate at Tony's is destined to become a family legend. If you're ever in Birch Run, go to Tony's. But be prepared: at Tony's, when you order "eggs, bacon, and toast" for breakfast, you get a dozen eggs, a pound of bacon, and a loaf of bread. All for about eight bucks. Seriously.

Me? I was in poverty shopping heaven. Between being spotted by the International Bank of Dad and the incredible deals, it was the most fun shopping I've had in a long time. I think both girls came away from The Children's Place with new wardrobes--I'm not sure, I was in a bit of fugue there what with the $3.00 skirts and yoga pants--and Diva Girl got a desperately needed, toasty warm Osh Kosh snow suit for the princely sum of $68. So she'll stay dry and warm through the Canadian winter, and we won't have to resort to a steady diet of Lunchables to afford it. I flatter myself that Mir would approve of my deal seeking prowess.

Beyond the shopping and the food, however, it was nice to be able to just jump in the car and go on a mini-holiday. A lot of women in my position--solo mom with no car and limited income--don't have that luxury. I wouldn't either, if not for incredibly supportive parents who genuinely enjoy spending time with The Ladies and me and who constantly make sure that circumstances don't mean we're excluded from the fun.

All that, plus socialized medicine, gun control, and the opportunity for killer shopping. I truly do have the best of both worlds.