By MARTA HEPLER DRAHOS
As a downtown employee, I do most of my gift-buying in the three blocks surrounding my office. I even have a downtown discount card I largely forget to show.
This year, though, I did my Christmas shopping online -- not to save time or money, but because my holiday list was a tad more specific. Take DNA double helix earrings, or a puggle -- who invented that dog, anyway? -- coffee mug or a $5 roll of Mele Kalikimaka wrapping paper that cost $8 to ship.
And -- here's where I get sheepish -- I have to say I enjoyed it. Besides the convenience of ordering in my bathrobe, it was like Christmas every day when I got to open the boxes that came right to my door (a happy surprise, since the delivery man often opts to leave packages at my mother's rather than negotiate the two-track through our woods).
Altogether, browsing the virtual toy store cut down significantly on my holiday stress.
Don't misunderstand; I love the season. And I'm not one of those people who believes giving gifts sends the wrong Christmas message. Like the ancient Romans and northern Europeans who originated the custom as part of their year-end celebrations, I consider it a small but sincere way of showing my affection.
But lately worry over fitting it all in has overshadowed what I love best about the season: the music, the glow of lights, the fragrance of evergreens and special cookies baking, the general good cheer.
So being done with my shopping by Dec. 1 this year meant I was finally going to have time to enjoy my favorite traditions. And in my family, at least, that includes attending plenty of concerts. This year we're even squeezing in a long entertainment weekend in Toronto, part of which doubles as a gift -- ordered online -- to my mother.
It was supposed be relaxing: a pleasant drive, a stay in a new downtown hotel suite, a full day to take in the sights and lights, maybe lunch at the city market. All topped off by a Viennese-theme concert by her favorite orchestra.
Now I learn we'll be joining the largest crowd ever to watch an indoor classical music concert. According to publicity, The Guinness Book has an eye on the show to set new records for the biggest set ever built, the largest logistical operation ever undertaken, and the most performers -- 250, including singers, dancers and two Canadian Pairs figure skating teams -- for one show.
Besides a re-creation of the Castle of Schonbrünn -- shipped to Canada in 125 sea containers -- the opulent set includes fountains, horses and two skating rinks.
All of which makes the thought of jostling Christmas shoppers next year a little more appealing.
Reach Marta Hepler Drahos at mdrahos@record-eagle.com
