Now that Black Friday is over, those who braved the long lines and the cold weather for the chance to partake in a shopping extravaganza, can reflect and ask themselves:

Was is really worth it?!

On Thursday night, I was excited to take pictures of people standing in line, but my plan was foiled.  The looks on the faces of  Best Buy over-nighters were not pleasant--all had the "every man for himself" look, or the "I will run over you if you get in my way" look. 

This was not a look I wanted to take a picture of, or even get close to.  Instead I had my 'getaway' car circle around so I could take some pictures from the passenger side of the car.  Unfortunately, no iReport worthy pictures were taken.

I am not one to go to the mall on Black Friday, but in order to immerse myself in this story (and with the hopes of getting a decent picture), I went at 5...PM.  Sales everywhere, people everywhere, angry drivers fighting for parking--my cup of tea.

After observing both the overnight culture and the mall on the day of this big shopping holiday, my first inclination was to conclude that consumerism has gone too far--why are we so obsessed with things?

After speaking with some shoppers in search for great holiday gifts, however, I realized that in an economy like this, Black Friday is a gift.  No pun intended.

Parents who spent the night in front of Walmart , Toys R Us, and the like, to find presents for their children have my seal of approval.  Those who went to buy electronics and clothing for themselves...well, they are okay too.

My trip to the mall resulted in one purchase--a black headband with a bow that cost $15.  A rip-off, I know.  I should have gotten up at 5 am.

Black Friday next year, here I come!

In the mean time, though, I ask those who spent the night or got up when everyone else was still sleeping:

Was is actually worth it? 

How much money did you save?