Christmas Rant 2007

I didn't intend to make this an annual event, but since I ranted last year, it appears to have become a tradition. Sorry in advance, but I simply can't keep this inside. I know those of you who read this would NEVER be involved in any of these activities. This is a safe place for me to let out steam. Better here than in the middle of Sears, right? Here goes.

All-Christmas-music-all-of-the-time radio should not begin until December. Playing any Christmas tunes before Thanksgiving should be a punishable offense. Have mercy. If someone will start a petition to ban Mariah Carey's "All I Want for Christmas is You" altogether, I'll sign. Twice.

To those of you who think the mall parking lot is your personal race track: You people need to get a grip and possibly some medical intervention. Slow down!!

To those of you who think driving to the mall and waiting for a parking space is a great excuse to have your "quiet time:" It isn't. Pay attention or get out of the way!!

Some parenting advice: Begging is not acceptable under ANY circumstance. You're whiny kids are driving the rest of us nuts. If they're tired, take them home. If that's the way they've learned to ask for things, some adjustments need to be made. Allowing them to argue with you in the middle of Target is out of line. Here is one of the most important rules in our family (my kids can recite it in their sleep): Don't Embarrass Mom in Public! It works for us; give it a try.

Once you have negotiated the checkout line and reached the register, shopping is OVER. Sorting through your shopping cart, making the checkout person (and those of us in line behind you) wait while you continue to shop is inconsiderate. Here's a novel idea: Wait to get in line until you have made your final purchase decisions.

Save the Santa hats for the week before Christmas. I beg you.

Done.