In my family, the phrases “it can be exchanged” or “I saved the receipt” are so often used they are running jokes not only at Christmas, but on any gift-giving occasion. No, my family isn’t self-deprecating to a fault; rather they just want to make sure you look fabulous, whether in a L.L. Bean chamois or a cocktail dress.

But, if you’ll allow me a few moments of retail pride, I have to say I’m quite impressed with the my family's shopping skills of late. Dare I say that my own must be genetic? Grandma found the double-net fishnets in black I’d been looking for everywhere, and my sister gifted the sold-out-everywhere M.A.C. holiday set I’d been eyeing. Snaps all around, but the gift-giving Oscar this year goes to my aunt for the riding boots that found their way under the tree.

While I have no intention of adding equestrian activities to my New Year’s resolutions, I’ve had riding boots on my wish list for a long time, but didn’t want to fork over $100s. But a little shopping destiny took hold a few weeks ago and these boots found me in a most unlikely place . . . A Saturday evening production of Les Mis by Bangor High School.

Sitting in row two, I had a great view of the play (my cousin L. played a lovely Lovely Lady), but I was also afforded a close-up look at the costumes. During “One Day More” I noticed Javert had on some great boots. Really great. Just what I’d been looking for, in fact. At intermission I immediately asked the costume mistress (luckily she’s also my Aunt J.) about the boots. Just on loan, they were used and for sale at a bargain price at the local tack shop. They were on the market! Total bonne chance.

And though I really wanted to buy the boots right off Javert as soon as he jumped the bridge, I ended up leaving the play empty-handed. But I could tell from my aunt’s smile that I might be seeing the boots again. And, indeed on Christmas morning there they were, newly buffed and shined, looking even better than they had on stage. Fantastique!

So, that's my Christmas fairy tale. Do tell, readers: What was your most fabulous Christmas gift?