Depending on your crowd, this Friday is either ...

1. The day you run out to shop shop shop
2. The day you conspicuously avoid buying things

I mention it only because it means the current de-facto leaders in the personal electronic publishing world will be taking time out of their busy schedules to tear Ad Busters several new holes.

I don't get that.

I've never been one for the whole culture jamming thing, but at best a few more people stay home and don't stress themselves out about December Shopping and at worst it's harmless. The level of vitriol thrown at the perpetual art school folks behind Buy Nothing Day is completely out of proportion to what they're doing. If you don't like it fine, move on.

As for me, I've been avoiding Christmas itself for the past few years. I buy my friend Elisabeth a present because, well, I do. I also buy something for my brother and sister, but typically send it out far past December 25th. Other than that I shun all celebrations and shopping, unless there's a great deal on something I want for me.

I'm also planning on spending Thanksgiving alone. Some friends are throwing an orphans Thanksgiving party, but I don't want to be around people. Particularly one or two of the people that will be there.

I wonder sometimes about this life I've chosen. I have no idea what's coming next, not the remotest of blueprints to follow. Modern Urban Part Time Hermits don't share their secrets.