Ready for Christmas?

I am not ready for Christmas. Actually, I am... but I'm not.

Let me explain. Each year, there are two events which I have plenty of warning about, but which invariably catch me by surprise. The first, in September, is my Birthday - you would have thought I'd get used to it by now, what with it having always fallen on the same date every year for as long as I can remember. This year, I remembered about 5 days before; last year I managed 2 weeks.

The second calendar-stopper is Christmas. Same deal here - all year to think about it, to prepare for it, to approach it nice and gently. But no. I've only just realised that it is now just a little over 1 week to go! Have I bought presents yet? Nope. Have I arranged where I will be at what time? Nope. Surely I have got all the decorations out and festivised (actual word?) my cosy little abode? Nope. I'm rubbish.

But guess what, I have a bunch of pre-prepared excuses! What a surprise, eh? Here goes:

• I am still busy with work and I have to make sure all those loose ends are tied up before the Big Day. Then I can start to relax. And besides, I can fit my various Christmas duties in easily. I hope.
• I always leave my shopping until the last week before Christmas. What can I say, I thrive on pressure!
• I will do my decorations - this weekend. Promise. Most probably with Southern Comfort in hand and Christmas Vacation on screen. 'The tree was wonky when I got it' - that'll be my story and I'll be sticking to it!
  

I could go on... But that'll do for now, I think.

Happy Christmas, everyone!