Cringing at Kriss Kringle

I saw the first hints of Christmas just about the time the back-to-school displays came down at the local big-box discounter. A display of fake trees glowed from the back corner of the one-time patio display area. I turned the other way, as I was still wearing flip-flops, a T-shirt and Bermudas.

A trip to buy Halloween candy last month revealed a fully stocked Santa aisle at the local pharmacy. Again, I took a detour.

Now, it seems my luck has run out and there’s nowhere to hide all of those hollies and jollies.
Holiday fever is spreading into places I can't avoid.

There was story on NPR this morning about walmart.com offering free shipping for online purchases now through Dec. 20.

I've seen more than a handful of tweets about where to find Black Friday sales fliers right now. (For those who really must get a jump-start, head to www.blackfriday.info.)

I've seen several stories predicting that more people will buy more things online and offline this holiday season than last.

I've heard stories about businesses already hiring seasonal workers.

The only thing missing is the smell of sugar cookies in my kitchen. (Once I find the recipe, that may change.)

I'm going to do my best to keep the holidays straight. Halloween got the ball rolling. Today is Veterans Day and Thanksgiving hits in two weeks. Then, and only then, will I make any move toward fulfilling Christmas obligations.

How about you? Is this the year you jump-start the holidays? Will you be waiting in the wee hours for a store to open Nov. 26? Have you already finished your shopping? Share your thoughts below, and don't worry, I won't let Santa take a peek before Cyber Monday.