Derby Street Shoppes, Hingham

Like it or not, the holiday shopping season is just a turkey bone’s throw away, so why not subtract some stress by doing a fun

Fall colors enhance the scenery as Derby Street Shppes are a miday getaway. George and Harriet Goldstein, Quincy, enjoy ice cream. Gary Higgins photo/The Patriot Ledger

dry run? Because all the stores have outdoor entrances, there’s plenty of room to move at your own pace and lots of fresh air. See? Less stressful. It’s not a “mall,” it’s a “lifestyle center.” Get off Route 3 at Exit 15, go to the first set of lights and turn right.

Cost: $9.23 for soup, bread, iced tea, stickers and coffee.

Time: 60 minutes

SUSTENENCE

The plan is to look, but not to buy. This will take some strength, so eat first. Panera Bread is affordable. Grab a table by the fireplace and fill your tummy with hot soup, warm bread and cold iced tea for $5.12. Other reasonably priced eats can be found at Baja Fresh and Whole Foods’ salad and hot food bars.

HIT THE TRAIL

You’ll hit more stores in less time if you start out toward The Paper Store. Classical holiday music puts you in the appropriate mood. One of the many Sox fans on your list might like the store’s framed watercolor of Fenway Park for $26.95. Did you know Kate Spade makes Christmas cards? She does; $30 for eight cards.

BREAK THE RULES

OK, the ‘no buying’ thing was a little harsh. New rule: It’s all right if it’s cheap and for someone else. Lots of someone elses will enjoy cute stickers on their holiday cards, so buy some for $2.40.

FREEBIES!

Of course, there is no charge to look at anything, and smelling is free, too. Stop and sniff some holiday smells at Yankee Candle. Williams Sonoma has a meal planning book, checklist and recipes to take home – totally free! Barnes and Noble isn’t a library, but everyone treats it that way. Check out the new arrivals. Feel a little guilty? Drop $1.71 for a small coffee to perk you up on the way back to the office.