... shopping presently ...

I have almost done all the Christmas shopping. This is frighteningly organised for me. Thank you Borders for having a good selection of books and calendars.

Awkward people to buy for are a 14 year old boy distant relative - at 6 we could buy him anything to do with cars - and 7 - and 8 - but 14. I also have a grandson who grows bigger every month and I am totally out of touch of size - interests etc etc - so I have found a token present - and - copping out sent money.

My usual tactic is to go shopping at around three on Christmas Eve - the shops are full of people - lots of stuff has gone - so there is less choice - and you get caught up in the excitement - your common sense gone - and you get interesting presents - or a load of tatt - to use a Cockney expression - which you give to people who buy you - sensible socks - hankies - or clothing you cannot be seen in - so in a way this is a fair exchange.