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Friday, November 20, 2009

Confessions of an Angry Christmas Shopper--by Linda Kozar



The malls are already starting to feel a bit crowded. I wandered aimlessly, wondering what to buy. Teens never like anything I like. The same goes for nieces and nephews. My husband is persnickety to buy for (and yes, I've already tried magazine subscriptions thank you). Early Christmas shoppers pass by smiling smugly as they juggle packages on the way to the car. Well, enjoy the glow of the moment why don't you? I've done the early shopping thing too and guess what? You always, always, always forget something!


It's true. In years past, I thought I could avoid crowded malls and throngs of weary shoppers, but try as I might, there was always one more thing I needed. One crucial gift I had to drag myself to the mall for. One reason I drove up and down parking aisles cruising like a Seregetti lioness on the prowl--all for a spot to rest my weary wheels. One reason I tried in vain to dance my way past strollers and people herds (groups of family members or friends who travel in packs). One reason I stood in long lines to buy, to use the restroom or buy a big greasy pretzel and a coke. TO buy that last gift. The one I forgot. Or the one I didn't anticipate having to buy.


But in spite of all my complaints, there's something else I can't deny. The intangible thing about Christmas shopping is there in the midst of all the aggravation and frustration. The excitment!  Yup. There's an electric buzz in the air. A rushing wind of like-mindedness. A shark feeding frenzy kind of feeling. AND sometimes I find myself pausing a moment to sniff the fragrance of Cinnabons in the air, listen to a childen's choir or laugh at a toddler sitting on Santa's lap wondering whether to laugh, cry, pull his beard off or test the efficacy of his diaper.


Okay, so Christmas is fun. Sort of. It's I like singing carols in church. I like the glowy, slightly gawdy look of my home after it's tinselized in seasonal splendor. I love velcro-ing reindeer antlers on my reluctant doggie. . .indulging in candies, dips, breads, eggnog, pies and pastries. . .sharing memories with family, friends and neighbors. . .


Here's a confession I have to make though--I love Jesus all year long, but I'm so glad Christmas is only once a year.


How about YOU? Leave a comment.:)

12 comments:

Unknown said...

I must confess, I can only handle about one or (maybe) two trips to the mall during the Christmas rush. These days, the bigger problem for me is Toys R Us. With four grandbabies and two on the way, avoiding Toys R Us is impossible. And if you think the MALL is bad. . . .well, you just ain't lived till you've gone to Toys R Us during the Christmas madness. Is it always easy to remember that we're supposed to be celebrating the birth of our Savior? No. Still, I'm with you. There's something to be said for the tinsel and lights, the Christmas glitz and glam. Once a year, anyway. :) Can't wait to get my hands on a copy of your devotional, Linda. Tis the season!

Linda Kozar said...

Thanks Janice--UGH, you're right about Toys R Us! Kids love it there but adults drag themselves thru the door.
As for the book--I'm waiting for the UPS man like a dog waiting for his supper. I'll get you one as soon as I can:)

Kate said...

Ooooh, I could feel that mall trip and more Linda ;-) I do love different things about Christmas, shopping is not one of them, lol. Thank you Jesus for coming into our world and transforming it for all eternity~~~

Linda Kozar said...

AMEN sistah!

dannelle said...

soooo funny Linda....now i HAVE to have a cinamibon...like NOW..
your writing always brings such laughter girl, someday your gonna be famous... : )
keep em coming
Dannelle

Kate said...

psssssssssst, I bought cinnamon rolls at HEB on the way home, along with a turkey~! they go well together right?

Linda Kozar said...

Cinnabuns go with EVERYTHING! I think their so good they should be spelled Sin-a-buns!

Dorothy McCann said...

Wow, it's good to hear I'm not the only one that has difficulty shopping for others. It's not easy to purchase that perfect gift. My solution... gift cards or cash. This leaves time to enjoy friends, family and food. Going to the mall can now be taken as a leisurely stroll, only observing the long lines and frantic people enjoying the music and atmosphere. Relaxing.. Keeping Jesus in the season.

Dorothy McCann said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Linda Kozar said...

Dorothy, you are so right--it's easier to give cash or gift cards to those it is difficult to shop for. It kind of takes the personal touch out of the picture though. I'm on the fence about how I feel. On one hand, it's easy peezy for me. On the other hand, it's not quite as fun when they open the gift...

Anonymous said...

Christmas is my favorite time of the year, maybe because is Jesus Birthday and mine? :)

I do not like going to the mall either, like Janet said, Toys are Us, seem more likely for me to go to this year. I became a grand ma twice for the first time this year.
I thank the LOrd for grandkids, they are great gifts... Most of all for His love towards us, He gave himself as a gift to mankind so we can enjoy eternal life w/Him. Thank You Jesus! He is the Reason for This season.

Linda Kozar said...

Well bless your heart Anonymous! Happy Birthday and Merry Christmas! Congratulations on your grandbabies too! you have a lot to be thankful for. Thanks for sharing your sweet heart with the Babes:)