The joys of Last Minute shopping

It's that time of year when carols are played on radio stations and the unmistakable bells of the Salvation Army can be heard when you walk into any mall. Yes, Christmas has arrived once again, cheering on 2006 as it prepares to make it's grand exit.

Along with Christmas comes trees, tinsel, lights and the delightful frenzy of last-minute shopping, something I always vow to avoid but end up indulging in anyway. I mean, who really finishes all their shopping before November? No one I personally know. Who would want to avoid the agony of searching of a parking spot? The elbowing your way through crowds of tired, cranky people all searching for that 'perfect' gift? The obviously exhausted looks of salespeople?

Yesterday I was lucky that Canadian Tire was the only stop I had to make, it isn't exactly the hotspot of shopping. For real live frenzy you need to stop at Market, Chinook or Southcentre Malls. If you manage to find the oh so elusive parking spot you can then be dazzled by overly bright lights as you enter the mall. Then commence the aimless wandering that inevitably follows as you wonder what in tarnation to get your father. The frustration begins as you realize that each store carries NOTHING he'd want. It mounts as you come up with a great gift idea only to discover all stores sold out of it a week ago. It culminates as you now pick up the pace and whirl frantically from window to window, trying to convince yourself that he really does need a tie with huge snowflakes printed on them. Take deep breaths to prevent from collapsing into a sobbing mess on the floor. Only when you hit despair can you make yourself go and purchase those damned socks you get every year and not feel bad about it.

At least this is the general pattern I follow every year. Usually culminating over the course of a week as opposed to one night. In the end I have to tell myself that it's the thought that counts. It's the defense of all last-minute shoppers.

Merry Christmas everyone. And realize whatever you get has, if not blood, at least sweat and tears put into it.