I have almost done all the Christmas shopping. This is frighteningly organised for me. Thank you Borders for having a good selection of books and calendars.
Awkward people to buy for are a 14 year old boy distant relative – at 6 we could buy him anything to do with cars – and 7 – and 8 – but 14. I also have a grandson who grows bigger every month and I am totally out of touch of size – interests etc etc – so I have found a token present – and – copping out sent money.
My usual tactic is to go shopping at around three on Christmas Eve – the shops are full of people – lots of stuff has gone – so there is less choice – and you get caught up in the excitement – your common sense gone – and you get interesting presents – or a load of tatt – to use a Cockney expression – which you give to people who buy you – sensible socks – hankies – or clothing you cannot be seen in – so in a way this is a fair exchange.