When I was asked to contribute ten things I disliked about Christmas for Wicked Little Pixie, it was tough. I’m a Christmas lover at heart, and I couldn’t think of anything to contribute. Of course, this changed when I hit the chaos in my town that consists of crazy shoppers and one stop shopping.  One trip was enough to provide the top ten, and I was finally able to scrounge up a few things that irk me during the holiday season.

10. Traffic, traffic, and more traffic. I would elaborate on this, but is there really any point? My question becomes: Doesn’t anyone shop online anymore?

9.  Dog-eat-dog holiday shoppers.  Listen, I get it. That last limited edition Barbie is something your daughter/grandchild, etc wants so badly they’d kill for it.  But do you think fighting in the toy aisle is really worth it?  Do you want to make sure some blood mars the now bent plastic case so you can prove your unwavering devotion? Perhaps you should try another store?

8.  The “deals” that aren’t deals at all.  It’s time to come clean, retailers.  I’m in your store often, and I know when something is truly marked “down.”  Nothing is more offensive than when you see something which was originally $9.99 and is now advertised with a “Now $9.99.” Trust me, Wal-Mart, your shoppers know when you’ve upped the cost to make it seem as if you’re cutting them a break.

7.  Long lines. I highly suggest you bring reading material along if you decide to hit up Hell-Mart or Tarjay for groceries.  You’re likely to be there awhile.

6.  Christmas music. Don’t get me wrong, I love Christmas music. But when you’re inside a crowded store, waiting forever to grab a carton of milk or snag something for your child’s class as you stand behind a group of reunited friends who won’t get the hell out of the aisle, the last thing you want is to hear is, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year.”

5.  The germs.  Our entire family was wiped out for over a week with a horrible virus that spread through the house.  I’m not saying it came from my shopping, but I can’t count it out when several of the people around me were coughing, swiping at their runny noses, and acting as if they were going to barf at any moment.

4.  Increased prices.  If I could boycott several of the popular toy makers, I would.  No one should have to pay $90 for the newest Barbie Glam Jet or Legos Police City.  Insanity, I tell you, but Santa always has to deliver.

3.  Phone solicitors. Every year the amount of calls we receive asking for money increases. There’s nothing worse than when you want to help out a cause but they won’t take no for an answer. That’s why my husband answers the phone.  He’s better at dealing with it than me.

2.  Obligations.  Each year, these increase.  With several children, I’m always trying to find ways to make it to each party.  While I enjoy attending, it’s not entirely fun slipping out a few minutes early so you can haul ass across the boonies to make it to another location to watch your other child do the same.  All I can say is I’m practicing my sweetest smile in the event I’m pulled over for speeding.

1. When it’s all over.  God help me, I’m a glutton for punishment.  Because even with the above mentioned, I do love Christmas.  There is nothing quite like it.  It’s a good thing I keep Red Bull handy; otherwise I’d never make it through days one through twenty-five. *smile*

Thanks for allowing me to share.  Have a happy and safe holiday!  Time for egg nog!

Jaime is giving away a PDF Copy of Dead, Undead or Somewhere Inbetween to one lucky winner

To Enter: Tell us what your FAVORITE part of the holidays are

All Contests for the 13 Wicked Days of Christmas end on Wednesday December 29^th, Winners Announced On Thursday December 30^th. US/Canada ONLY.