Christmas shopping time is here again. I’m not a big shopper. Typically, I know what I want, and I’ll investigate in advance where to purchase it. When I go, I walk in, get what I want, and leave. No fuss, no muss.

It all falls apart at Christmas. At this time of the year, I’m buying all kids of things I would never otherwise get. I’m flailing around like I have no idea what I’m doing. The reason is I have no idea what I’m doing!

Some things do make it better, however. Going shopping with friends makes the experience downright enjoyable. I went shopping in the Glebe with Jessica and Kendra on Friday and although it was fairly busy, I had a very nice time. They’re both very nice and whisked away the annoying parts of shopping. Unfortunately, I still have things to buy. Ah well, this too shall pass.

You know, there’s one other problem about Christmas that I can see no way to reconcile. I often go to visit my parents and my sister’s family for the holidays. Not always, but often. If I don’t go, I enjoy the company of my friends and miss my family. If I do go I enjoy the company of my family and miss my friends. See? No reconciliation. Still, I enjoy the season and it’s nice having enough people important to me that I miss someone.

How’s that for looking at the bright side?