I’m well aware that I often see things differently than the rest of the world, but this holiday thing is really crazy! The world has gotten insane. I was watching t.v with The Girl last night–I almost never watch t.v.–and this commercial came on that simply left me laughing. The commercial was about giving a Mercedes-Benz for Christmas. Oh yeah, let me add that to my shopping list. LOL! I’m equally astonished when I see these articles that read “Great Gifts for Under $500.” What’s up with that? I buy stuff for friends and family throughout the year because I see something I think they’ll like or enjoy or it reminds me of them…and then I give it to them. Then there were the commercials for shopping specials starting at 6 a.m. on Thanksgiving morning and the day after. My husband loves all that chaos. Me? No thanks. I’d prefer to be beat senseless. :crazy: I refuse to be caught up in that and I refuse to hang a price tag on my regard and affection for friends and family.

Don’t get me wrong. I fully admit to being materialistic. I have a penchant for jewelry–nice, expensive jewelry. In fact, while I was in Sedona, I found a gorgeous necklace with a Russian icon that was a one-of-a-kind in an art gallery. It could’ve been mine for $2000. In three installments. Really, not that bad for a unique piece of jewelry. I’m not sure I could’ve stared down that temptation alone, but my two good friends led me out of there. :rolleyes: Would I turn that down if it was presented as a gift? Uh…no. But I don’t expect it for Christmas. It’s the expection factor that bugs me…as if there’s something wrong with us if we’re not willing to shell out five-hundred bucks on a gift or maybe a couple of thousand for a necklace or maybe several thousand on a car. And it also sets up the expectation that others should do the same for us.

Okay, I’ll climb off of my soapbox and try very hard to keep my mouth shut for the next month. :blush: And would I like a Mercedes-Benz for Christmas? No thanks, I’m perfectly happy with my car. :)