This may surprise some, but I don't actually mind the build-up to Christmas starting as soon as the kids go back to school. I'd prefer it if things were delayed a bit after that (f'rinstance as we now do Halloween over here then perhaps waiting until that was over would be better), but having worked in retail can see why they like to get things up and running as soon as possible. It always kept life interesting back in the Argos days, having to juggle stockroom space for garden furniture and Christmas trees at the same time.
We spent a good half hour looking at baubles, lights and miscellaneous hanging things on Sunday after cake at a Garden Centre and I didn't want to run screaming from the room once. Unlike when we were looking at the plants before the cake. But that was more due to the call of the cake rather than any particular negative vibes over gardening. Not my favourite pass time, but better than decorating. Plus, I have to be organised when it comes to the festive season as Joan's birthday is only a few days after Christmas so I need to start buying stuff in advance to spread the cost and make sure each even gets the proper treatment.
Anyhoo, we'll be having a real tree this year if I'm still gainfully employed, rather than one of these plastic efforts.
