Something in the air

I "felt" Christmas earlier. Not the day itself mind you, but the atmosphere. It may be something to do with the weather and the earlier arrival of dusk, or the perhaps it's the racks of Christmas merchandise congregating in shops throughout the land. I'm not certain, but it's out there, lurking around corners, ready to spring out upon the unwary.

Normally I object to shopping for presents any earlier than December (preferably the last week - put it down to masochism), largely because I object to the wholly consumerist nature of the beast (although I still buy gifts, which should tell you something). This year however I'm constrained by a number of events going on at the end of year, primarily the logistical problems involved in transferring my worldly belongings, meagre though they are, 400 miles northwards. Whilst I'll be ably assisted in this endeavour by my brother and newly minted sister-in-law Kerry, it will happen at the end of November, leaving me to live out of a suitcase for the remainder of my time here. Those remaining possessions I'm going to have to heft on a plane, so when it comes to yuletide gifts I'm faced with one of two possibilities: Either shop earlier, and let the presents be magically transported North at the end of November (thanks again Nicky, Kerry). Or else buy really small presents.

Personally I kind of like the latter idea. At least it's theme....