Working in the Control Centre I dreaded aftenoon shifts because Friday just after 1700 would always the calls: “Hi, I know it’s late notice but I need the boardroom booked for Monday at seven AM.” They would then get immensely upset when I inform them a lack of preparation on their part does not constitute an emergency on mine. The personnel and time to book a boardroom are gone, and if you knew about this meeting for so long why did you wait until the 13th hour to handle the easiest but most important part? Probably because you slacked off all week and realised too late Friday was already here and you still had shit to do.

I hate December because it is a whole month of that and Christmas all at the same time.

I like the evening of the 24th when the whole family gather, chats, gets drunk and opens presents. It will be even better now that little scampering kiddies are in the clan once again. Christmas day is nice because I tend to spend it with Mom and Dad and a warm mug of coffee, quietly enjoying their company. Occasionally with Teddy around to chat like we do not get enough chances to these days.

Just about every day before and after those is everyone realising everything they needed to get done for the year is not done yet. I finished everything last month and met all the dealines I was asked to, so I can cope with this in the current position I am in at work. However, so many other people are stressed out and worrying it cannot help but spill over to us bystanders. Couple that with the heavier rush-hour traffic thanks to the snow and holiday scaring everyone on to the TTC and the general mood just sucks.

I had my usual moment of Christmas Cheer early this year: On our way into the grocery store the Salvation Army band was playing. That always chokes me up. I was even startled to find said grocery store had turned off its muzak so everyone could hear them. I hope to see them again in the next week as they are the pick-me-up I need to get to the party without turning into a complete Grinch.

December should be when everyone is relaxed and contemplating the year about to pass, not running around screaming because they missed it going by.