Christmas, again.

I don't like Christmas. Of all the holidays, it's low on my list. Quite frankly, it is an inconvenience. Not only does it take me away from my news rooms, leaving me weeks behind in work, but it also allows my brain to atrophy between semesters. Also, while running around finishing up my news section and show, finishing finals and moving out of my dorm, I have to think about purchasing and wrapping dozens of presents including playing Santa for my dad.

Yes, I'm a Grinch, Scrooge, etc. 

My hatred extends to the whole ambiance. Not just the preparation, but I'm irked by the entire state of Maine's population that migrates to Bangor from Nov. 20 until Dec. 24. Then, once I've won the traffic battle, I then must go into the stores I fought so bravely to get to. Fine. I don't mind shopping. What I do mind is holiday music. And crowds. 

Billy Family-of-five Belfast is in front of me rounding up his spawn, yelling and grabbing wildly at both aisle ends for more toys, candles and dog treats -- I, behind him, can neither pass him nor escape from the incessant Rudolf the Red Nose Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas Jingle Bell Silent Night Rock. Fun.

My suggestion would be this: If your family is involved in the capitalist-based, economy-infusing holiday, perhaps you could be smarter and better use your resources. Just give the kid the $300 you would have spent on him/her and allow said child to buy its own gifts at after-Christmas day prices.

This would save me from much frustration.

Happy holidays.