Here are some of my biggest niggles, which I think many of you might share:
1. It's just one day!
I find it so annoying that people crowd shops particularly places like the Card Factory, and make it near impossible to look round. Christmas adverts take over the entire television for two months (maybe more) guilting you into spending too much money, and what for? It is consumerism gone crazy! I think the true reason and spirit of Christmas has gone. I'm in no way religious, but think it should be more about appreciating those you spend the time with, than how much you spend, what you're getting and feeling you need to show your love in buying form!
I find that so many people descend and waste SO MUCH money on food, and act like they'll be in hibernation for a month. My mother included!
2. The stress
I get so stressed about wasting money on presents that people won't like. I have no idea why because 9/10 I see people using the gifts I gave them, and think I'm generally good at gift buying. Other people get so stressed about time with in-laws, annoying family members and being forced to be together. And why? We're continuously told that life is short, so why waste it with people you dislike?
3. Snow
I know so many people wish for a white christmas, but truth to be told I absolutely detest snow (I know I must be the only person). I wish snow could be like in the films - turn up on Christmas Eve and gone by Boxing Day. Snow brings with ice, black ice and plenty of painful falls.
4. The Sales
Don't get me wrong everyone loves a good sale, and grabbing a bargain. I do too! I don't enjoy being pushed, shoved or being on top of people in a sauna of body heat. I believe we live with technology now, so believe all sales should be online, and especially at this time of year. Why do poor retailers have to deal with rude customers on the run-up to Christmas, and then work on Boxing Day? How can they enjoy their Christmas, when they are working the next day?
5. The boredom
I know this will be very unpopular, but I actually get so bored on Christmas Day. I forget every year how much until it comes round again. Sitting in the house all day, wearing pjs, opening presents and then nothing. To me, it's like a dull Sunday with presents.
6. Films
It is the only time I find it socially acceptable to watch a film again. I love to watch Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and Harry Potter films. However instead my parents force some crime thriller or action film, that any other time of year, I'd go watch my own thing, but feel like "you have to" be with them.
7. TV
The television is generally crap; even more so than the rest of the year. Hopefully this year is different. I think it's important too as we tend to stay in all day, and don't visit anyone.
8. Christmas cards
I still buy them to go alongside presents, and find it important to send to grandparents, and know my mum always likes/expects her. However I feel they are pointless, as many people aren't like me. By the new year, they are thrown in the bin. Whereas I tend to collect all mine (as long as I like the picture and it's from someone I like).
9. Diet
It's the only time of the year, where it is acceptable to say "f**k it!" I disagree with this idea, and think we need to not overindulge. That being said, I will probably be the first to stuff my face with chocolate. My waistline suffer and stomach will be sore!
10. Christmas songs
You can't help but sing to them, but think it's more of a nostaglia thing; they remind you of Christmas past and good spirit. However I find them cheesy and can't think of one I like. I'm not sure whether heading Christmas songs on repeat from September/October to December, while working in retail sucked any enjoyment I got. I think I hated them before then though!
Let me know if you have any of the same annoyances about Christmas or wish to let me know I'm the female version of Scrooge! I somehow think I will have missed some. Either way I hope you enjoyed reading...
