Oh the places are getting decorated, people are bundling up, thinking of loved ones more often and stoking nice, warm fireplaces a-glow...

Unless you live in Australia, then it's time to skivvy down and hit the waves!

I love this time of year.



And may whoever invented the eggnog latte be blessed for as long as they walk this world. Om nom nom.

Boxes! Packets, cartons, coffers and crates brimming with the unknown! Or nothing at all, but must be explored, all the same. Some rattle when struck, some smush. The crash tinkle is the herald of a swift exit, I have learnt. And ribbons! Tapes, curly and linear, with elegant architecture or warm-hearted yet mauled bows. All dangling and coyly bouncing in the air. Shiny coins and curious gambling chance games for candies and toys with oddly shaped dice.

I for one am most glad the mundane stocking is not displayed in the gathering rooms. Mothers would die of shame from the gray ghost footprints of dirty floor ingrained into many a sole.