We’re all guilty of it. Sometimes we get so wrapped up in all the things we have to do to get ready for the holidays, that we begin to cast ourselves as the bright center of the universe that everyone else is trying to block out. Every parking space just missed, every biker riding in the road adding thirty seconds to our commute home, every shopper taking the last Wii off the shelf just before we get to it is yet another heartless bastard who obviously has it in for us, and only us, some personal vendetta carried out by a complete stranger to destroy our tightly scheduled holiday season. The “companion” in this week’s top quote provides some much needed perspective to one such stressed-out shopper.

Take a deep breath (and a sip of strong eggnog if need be), and enjoy the holidays, Washington. There will be plenty to grouse about in the new year.

Quote of the Week

A crowded pre-Christmas Saturday at Pentagon City Mall:

Christmas shopper, to shopping companion: “I can’t stand useless shoppers, you know, the type that just come to the mall with their friends even though they’re not going to buy anything.”
Companion: “Oh, like me?”

After the jump, Sophie’s choice (of toys), trying to understand ugly art, and the second coming.

With not a creature stirring all through the house, it’ll be quiet enough for you to overhear plenty. Send it all to overheardindc (at) gmail (dot) com.

Photo by Flickr user billadler.