Is it just me?

I love this time of year, don't you? I enjoyed putting up Christmas decorations and lights yesterday with my girls. My oldest was so happy to help with some of the outside lights. Despite the fact that she doesn't understand how fragile the light strings are, we managed to get them up without incident. I think the little one will be excited to help with the tree. That is going up this Saturday. What a delight!
Is it just me or are their others who, despite feeling festive and merry, dread the shopping and the lines and the people and the parking and the 24/7 Christmas music playing? It is enough to suck that holiday spirit right out through your nose. No, I don't mean to be a grinch, I am just realistic. I  love this time of year as much as anyone but...
I have 6 preset stations on my radio in the car. Only five of them come in well. Three of the five, my most favorite three, are playing non stop holiday tunes. I have resorted to listening to the country stations that are still mixing the secular songs with the holiday ones. I have my favorite holiday tunes but I do not need to hear the same song, in varying styles, played over and over.
I am so glad for the extra week to shop and plan between Thanksgiving and Christmas, however. I feel like I can do the shopping and buying in smaller, bite sized pieces as opposed to quick, I have to get it done, NOW! Did you realize that there is more time between these two holidays this year? Well, there is just one more thing to be thankful for.
Don't let all the frustration of the practical parts of the season get you on the Bah, Humbug train. Simplify. Draw names for gifts this year to cut down on money spent. Or, one of my favorites, gift an experience. I have received a gift card for a local spa three years in a row. Allow someone to have a wonderful experience rather that gift something material.
Get a mug of Christmas cheer, turn out the lights and enjoy the tree lit up. Get out your patience cap and wrap your self in good will before you head out. And don't forget to smile, it helps!