As the crisp autumn leaves begin to make way for the first frosty whispers of winter, November stretches out a bizarre yet delightful tapestry of holidays that promise everything from shopping sprees to canine cuddles. As your unofficial guide to these quirky celebrations, allow me to take you through the rollercoaster of emotions (and expenses) that the last week of November has to offer.
Shopping Reminder Day: Your Wallet's Worst Nightmare
November 25th is dedicated to that blessed — or cursed, depending on your bank balance — event called Shopping Reminder Day. Why such a day exists, you might ask? Well, in case you’d forgotten about that Christmas wish list or those Black Friday deals. Or perhaps it serves as a jolting reminder of the socks you promised your uncle last Christmas but forgot amidst the chaos.
As retail therapy enthusiasts across the country steel themselves for bargain-hunting battles, remember this: Buying an electric wok we’ve never used is an international rite of passage.
Coton De Tulear Day: A Day For Dogs' Hair Care
Moving on to November 26th, we find a holiday so adorable, it deserves all the tummy rubs in the world: Coton de Tulear Day. For those unfamiliar with this fluffy named creature, they are the kings and queens of the lapdog kingdom with coats so luxurious one might confuse them for pillows. These majestic beings have taken over this day to remind you who’s truly in charge. Hint: It’s not you.
Celebrate this day by improving your dog's hair styling salon skills or risk the silent judgement of your own Coton, or worse, other Coton owners. Who knows, they might even let you think you’re giving them a treat that day, when in reality, they’re giving themselves to you.
National French Toast Day: Syrupy, Spicy Joy
Just two days later, on November 28th, your breakfast plate is destined for stardom: it’s National French Toast Day. Enjoy a guilt-free carb fest, marvelling in what happens when bread meets egg, milk, and a literal avalanche of cinnamon sugar.
Whether you are dusting off Grandma’s secret recipe or adapting some dubious concoction from an online chef who presents meals with jazz hands, the adventures of National French Toast Day make up for every burnt slice along the way. Fostering the perfect combination of sweet, savoury, and soggy, it’s a culinary experience that requires a nap immediately afterwards.
Buy Nothing Day: A Paradox In Preparation
Now, prepare for the paradox that is November 29th, as it serves you either the zenith or the nadir of holiday harmony: Buy Nothing Day. Imagined as a counterpoise to Black Friday, it’s a day to practice supreme self-control with your wallet. It’s about as easy as telling a cat to implore its ninth life without drama, but noble efforts abound.
So, what does one do on Buy Nothing Day, aside from twiddling your thumbs? You might consider getting reacquainted with things that have a shelf life beyond your phone's battery, such as books, fresh air, and meaningful eye contact with your neighbours since the late 90s.
Black Friday: Indulge The Bargains
And then, just when you thought the week was a mélange of wackiness, comes Black Friday on November 29th to throw you into a whirlpool of capitalistic carousal. From coupons to discounts that would make your grandmother faint, this day is tailor-made for those with shopping strategies akin to military operations.
Remember to limber up before heading out to your favourite department store, lest you pull a muscle reaching for that television, now reduced by an immodest 25%. Online shoppers, beware of carts overloaded with 5 years’ worth of socks and an inflatable flamingo because it was "practically free."
One thing's for sure, as you navigate this miscellany of merriment and madness, disposable income in tow: This week promises to keep you entertained, amused, and a tad exhausted. Embrace it with open arms — and spare wallets.