Tis the Silly Season

Australia has now entered their "silly season," which from what I can gather basically means the holiday season. They call it silly because of all the parties to attend before Christmas. Since there is no Thanksgiving, some of the parties started as early as the last weekend of November. My company took us on a dinner cruise around the Sydney Harbour. Although the weather did not cooperate, it was still a lovely view. And I must admit that the food was quite lovely.

The holiday season here has been a little strange for me so far, only in that it's quite warm and sunny here right now. The weather doesn't feel much like Christmas to me. Really, the one place you notice Christmas is happening is at the malls. The department store windows in the downtown (CBD) area are dressed with Christmas scenes and fake snow. The music indicates that Christmas is approaching as well, but it doesn't feel like it.

I had to laugh when I heard Let It Snow over the PA system because there is no way it's snowing here anytime soon. It's still entertaining though. They play most of the songs we know. Although, I haven't heard "Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer" yet. I am pretty sure this one is only an American thing. Not sure we would want to share that one... I did hear an Aussie toon one day on the Today show. It was called "Six White Boomers." Since Oz doesn't have reindeer here, Santa has to use kangaroos to pull his sleigh. And I guess another word for roo is boomer. I was able to find it on the Aussie You Tube site. Have a listen when you get some free time. (Link to Six White Boomers) I got a good laugh out of it.

Quick economical note: I think Australia is burying its head in the sand about a recession or possible depression. Strangely, everyone is out in droves right now doing their shopping. If I didn't know the world economy was in a bad state, I certainly would not be able to tell from the amount people are spending. The government here is very aware and trying to take measures to help things, but the people themselves seem to act as thought all is well with the world. In some ways, I guess this is good since consumer spending helps us. I just hope they have a little saved up for a rainy day.