Merry Whatever.

Well it's getting closer to that time of the year.

Christmas, Chrimbo, x-mas or the season of consumerism.

Whatever you want to call it is fine by me.

Some hate it, some love it, but for me I lean more to embracing the season of goodwill than the bah humbugs.

For all the negatives I prefer to focus on how it can bring people together.

Families that don't see each other often get the chance to meet up.

Friends can make firm arrangements to catch an hour or two together.

There's no real downside to that aspect of it.

For those of a contemplative nature then they can look back on one year and hopefully learn from it.

Leave the negative behind and drag the positives into 2013 with them.

That's what I'm hoping to do.

So while I appreciate that this can be for many a stressful part of the year please remember not to beat yourself up if your cup isn't runneth over with religious fervour, and try not to bankrupt yourself pursuing what you think is the perfect gift only for it to end up be tucked away at the back of a drawer by mid January.

Instead look to your family and friends, the people who you care about, and care for you, and have a good time with them.

Relax, enjoy, and have a good 2013 when it comes.