I wonder if it's because we start Christmas so early? From the first week of November, ads start tugging at the heart strings. Soon after, shop windows appear with assorted Christmas themes, from the stellar creativity of Selfridges and Harrods to some limper efforts on the high street. Then, on 29th November, there's Black Friday's internet shopping frenzy. 

And all this before things really kick off in December. 

I've tried an experiment this year. Two simple little words, once so commonly said but now seemingly forgotten, drowned out by the noise and exertion of Christmas. They seem to magically lighten the mood.

Every time I'm in a shop, coffee bar, delivered anything, I part with a "Merry Christmas" and nine times out of ten the stony looks have cracked with the warmth of a smile and exhausted eyes have lit up. Try it... it makes a real difference.

Merry Christmas