I distinctly remember it because it shocked me so much - Monday, September 15th a radio dj announced that there were 100 shopping days left until Christmas. Goodness, our family was just sort of falling into new routines for the fall with school back on and Sarah's dance classes, our studies etc. and we're s'posed to be thinking about Christmas. And of course, 2 weeks have lapsed since then, so there are even fewer shopping days now!
I can see the good sense of planning now. It would reduce the stress of December if I knew now who I was buying for, and, more importantly, what I wanted to buy. If I started to shop now, it would ease the strain on the wallet (i.e. family budget) by doing a bit each month rather than all of it in December. If I shopped now, I wouldn't be standing in long lines at the mall, getting zippo service from inadequately trained sales staff who've just been brought in for the holiday crunch. This is not to criticize professional sales staff - there are some fabulous ones out there. But who hasn't been served (can I call it that) by the minimum wage, who gives a crap, is my shift over yet, when's payday, whatever, parachuted in just for December only to be laid off as soon as Boxing Week is over and they know it, sales staff? Pleasant, isn't it? If I shopped now, I'd have the time to buy from direct sellers and support other professionals in this field, most of whom are well-trained, know their product inside out, and care that I make the right choice in my gift selection.
If you are one of those organized ones who has started planning for Christmas already, kudos to you. I admire you. I don't know if I'll ever be you, but I'd like to be you! If you are a little apprehensive about Christmas because it means your family budget is going to be stretched, and you live in Ontario, I'd be happy to share with you some information about becoming a direct seller on my Steeped Tea team of consultants. We are paid in cash, not product and we could get you started very quickly so you can start putting away for Christmas right away.
If you'd just like to receive some teas and beautiful teaware for Christmas, I have a solution for that, too. Browse the catalogue and make up your wishlist - you can download a wishlist form, from the sidebar just to the right. Email me your form and I'll gladly let your contact(s) know what you are hoping to receive this Christmas. I'll work with them directly, so you can still be somewhat surprised! Don't wait 'til December and leave your honey too little time to shop for you - do it now. :-)
Blessings and happy sipping, Ann
