I hate that I can't go anywhere after October 1st and not be bombarded with Christmas music, decorations and reminders to start my Christmas shopping now! It wasn't always this bad, was it? When I was growing up, I don't remember them starting the full court Christmas press until mid-November or so. The whole thing has really made both my wife and myself jaded towards the holiday in general. Not being a particularly religious individual, I've always viewed Christmas more as an excuse to get together with family than a celebration of a particular religious event. The continuous press of corporate America to "BUY BUY BUY!" has finally tarnished even that simplistic view of the holiday.

So, this year, my wife and I have decided to "stick it to the man", and not exchange gifts for Christmas...with anyone. Not with each other, not with family, not with friends. We'll still celebrate the season with family (and each other), but it won't involve the pressure, worry and expense of bending to corporate America's vision of the holiday.

Fight the power!

Kastellyn the Devourer of Magic, Lord of Legends