Last-minute shoppers out and about on the Treasure Coast

STUART, Fla. - Some Treasure Coast customers say they love last-minute shopping because the crowds have thinned out, and its a ritual that puts them in the Christmas spirit right before the big day. Thinners crowds mean shorter lines.

Others say its a stressful thing because their "To Do" list gets bigger and bigger the longer they wait, and having to add gift shopping on top of cooking and holiday gatherings can stretch them thin.

"This way, I can take my time and don't have to worry about anyone shoving me or trampling me," said Holly Wilborn, a North Carolina shopper who is visiting her daughter in Palm City.

"Each year, it gets harder to buy for the same people that you buy from every year," explained Jackie Nipe, who admitted work pushed back her time to shop for gifts.