You grab your phone, find the item, slide to buy now, and in 2-5 days, a box arrives at your door. Easy and convenient, right!? But is it always the best way to shop? I did the unthinkable for lent this year and gave up online shopping. After lent was over, I thought I'd resume my sometimes daily shopping habit of purchasing what I just knew I needed. I don't mind those little or big boxes not showing up anymore. I put much more thought into what I buy since this experiment of sorts. It's not the convenience I need anymore, but the ability to shop locally for what I genuinely need. Here are a few of the things that matter when you shop locally.

You are helping your neighbors and community by spending your money locally. Shopping at a locally owned business could be helping out your neighbor or even a family member. Money spent within the community stays in the community. It helps pay for things like a new splash pad, improvements to the town, lower taxes, and improvements to schools and programs. It's not just the businesses you help, but yourself and others.

You can trust what you are purchasing! Have you ever bought something that looked great in all their marketing photos but upon receiving it weeks later, it just doesn't hold up to the quality it should have been? Did you try to return that item only to be told you couldn't, or worse, you couldn't get a single person on the phone? Buying local gives you the ability to trust what you've bought is good quality. It also allows you to sort out any issues you may have face to face.

A strong business economy equals economic strength within the community. Local businesses hire local people. Thus putting more money back into the economy within your community. A strong business economy attracts new companies. New businesses bring in more options for shopping locally. It's a win-win.

Need a last-minute gift? Many shops have just about anything you'd need for any occasion.

Need inspiration? Again, our talented shop owners can help you with selecting paint, wallpaper, or even designing your home or office space. Locally talented business owners can help you from the smallest to the largest of projects.

Take time to browse through the local businesses, and you may find yourself shopping less online and more locally.