Collecting the curbside order today, my next car-neighbor had ordered 6 boxes of canned, plain, brand name water and a poinsettia plant. The boxes of water alone were a questionable thing: was it for themselves; were they throwing a party that really shouldn't happen; was it and the plant a gift? No one wants 6 boxes of canned, plain, water if they've gone to the effort of hosting a party. Or maybe it was for an uber Christian party where busting out the Coke is a veritable offence. Either way, the issue is less the pointless drink (just use the tap that comes with every house) and more the plant. Does anyone understand poinsettias? I ask this as I have been given them as presents, and never understood them. I don't want a red or white leaved, flappy plant, in a red paper or red paper wrapped pot. They look hideous, last about a month, and sometimes just take it upon themselves to go moldy. I know they are supposed to be festive, but are they? Just because they are red? I mean, I could place strawberries around the house instead. I think it must be brainwashing, that if enough times stores trot out a product in December then the masses believe the hype. Show some individuality, people! And on second thoughts: treat yo' selves to more than water at this time of year. I know I am.
Point(settias)less gifts: 2 stars (at least the giver hopefully feels good).