@ GutsyWriter, one year in Belize is plenty to recognize the excesses of life in western countries. I’m finding myself very intolerant and judgmental about it, not very Zen of me.

@ LadyFi, Thanksgiving turkey dinner is pretty much the same here as a traditional Christmas turkey dinner, which is much the same as a British Christmas dinner. Americans though are not too high on mince pie and plum pudding, going more for apple pie or pumpkin pie. Traditionally speaking. Magazines and food shows on TV offer many fancy gourmet variations and alternatives.

@ Hilary, so you are in Russia. Hope they have a nice Christmas celebration there, but maybe in January, orthodox? I loved you Grandma story! Part of the family history now. Thank you for sharing!

@ Mary Witzl, vegetarian just isn’t the same, I’m sure. And about Black Friday, there are of course many sane Americans who do not take part in this craziness!

@ Mary and Sean, craziness has no nationality, I’m sure. The day after Christmas in America is traditionally a very busy day in the shops: People changing or returning for money the presents they received on Christmas day. Awful! (And to buy the paper and other decorations at half-price for next year. I think it’s a sport!

@ Planetnomad, yes, it is sad to watch all that manic shopping on TV. I don’t venture out of the house on those those crazy days. I’m not much of a shopper at all.

Everybody, thanks for your input. Apparently none of you is a shopaholic! There is hope!