Cultured Views

Yep, we are almost ready to say goodbye to June – once that’s done you know what means…the Xmas countdown begins. I am sure that if you are like me once July swings in you start saying to people ” Did you know it’s only 24 weeks until Xmas…? ”

But considering the shopping season starts at least in October – that’s when all the decorations start to go up around the shops – you really only have something like 16 weeks to start putting your listing in order. Scary stuff eh? but being prepared is by far the best way to go about things – let’s make a determined effort to get all that gift buying done sooner rather later. I always find that this time of year – midyear – is when all those special items you want go on sale; if you try the strategy of making three or four purchases a month up until December then, voila!, you are home and hosed.

By far the best way of shopping early in this way and getting the most out of all those discounts is to shop online; forget the high street shops, everyone’s out because it’s summer and who needs crowds…? I have been shopping online for five years now and I think it is one of the best innovations ever. Okay, so you have to visit the shops at some stage – but you can still get the bulk of all your stuff online and delivered with relative ease now.

But go ahead – make your list – any idea what you’re after? I often find it easier to make those gift choices way before Xmas as by then the stress levels are peaking and I cannot get my head around everyone’s wishes and wants. It goes without saying that the kids nowadays prefer anything and everything that involves gaming, internet and things which involve wireless connections. I suppose that has been a godsend to us parents – how many of us have spent a small fortune on batteries in the past…?

Of course, and especially you Mums out there, don’t forget to make up your own wishlist as someone is bound to say to you ” So what do you want from Santa dear ? ” – I know what I want…books/biographies. That’s all I ever really want as I just love to read – the more the better. This year I have my eye firmly on ‘Measure of a Man: A Spiritual Autobiography’ by Sidney Poitier as this is a man I have admired for many years; not just for his acting roles but his dedication to many good causes and humanity.

This book is also included in the brilliant Oprahs Book Club which also means it is a quality publication and carries a special discount. This has become a very popular way to select a good book now as only the best books are chosen for inclusion in Oprahs Book Club. Santa could fill my Xmas stocking with as many books as he likes because that is what I love to do above all else when I take time out for myself – reading.  Actually, even though I have not read this book myself as yet I would even go so far as to recommending it to anyone now – the reason being this man has led a fascinating life and is not just an articulate speaker but just as much a writer.

Apart from a good bio anything non-fiction would keep me happy too; I love to read about other countries and cultures, especially the ancient one’s. Oh, and those great cook books – everyone’s a celebrity chef these days and with so much choice in that area there’s no excuse for not cooking up a storm this summer!

And one last thing; the advantage of shopping now means the kids will be at school when the postman arrives with the goods – anyone who has tried sneaking those Xmas gifts into the house with the kids around will know how difficult it is. So go on and get shopping before it’s too late. Only 24 weeks remember….

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1. Xmas 2007!
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3. Xmas is on it’s way
4. Xmas – decision made at last!
5. Ideas for Xmas