But where are all the bags?

The shoppers are out. The discount signs are posted. The holiday music is playing.

But where are all the bags?

Thousands of people were shuffling through the Volusia Mall Tuesday to take care of last-minute holiday shopping, but many appeared empty-handed, while others found that it's not the sale-frenzy they imagined it would be.

Already dealing with a weak economy, retailers are facing a shopping season that had five fewer days than last year between Black Friday and Christmas. Retail analysts predict stores will post an 18.8 percent decline in fourth-quarter profits, marking the seventh consecutive period of profit declines.

That's borne out by shoppers like sisters Felicia, 19, and Brooke Hancock, 15. They were on a $100 budget -- about half of what they spent last year -- for their mother and grandmother. They were looking for "girly stuff" at JC Penney, such as earrings and perfume, but also got something practical. Digging through the sale rack, they found black slacks at $14.99 for their mom, who works at a grocery store.

Money is "way tighter," said Felicia Hancock. "We're just shopping for deals."

For more on the local shopping scene read my full story here.