Christmas eve eve

So, as I am sure you are all aware, today is 23rd December AKA Christmas eve eve. I have just got home from work and I'm all set for Christmas. I popped out this morning before my shift started and got the last of my shopping. I must admit, I don't know why I leave things til this late. Everywhere is full to the rafters of similar last minute shoppers all rushing to get theirs done.

Accurate representation of last minute Christmas shopping

The picture above is just a stock photo I pulled from Google, plus it was probably taken during warmer months because there isn't a coat in sight (the weather also looks moderately OK). Regardless, it's an accurate representation of last minute Christmas shopping - exactly what I was faced with this morning, just before work.

I may have already mentioned that I work on the technical support desk for a major ISP. I also have a computing A-level, plus a COMPTIA A+ and MCTS certification. I'm currently studying, part-time, towards a BSc in Software Development and Networking so you might start to see a few "techy" posts appearing on the blog. I like to help people out as best I can, which is why I love technical support so much. I also know that people get very frustrated about their broadband and phone line being down so I'm definitely going to get a few articles out about how to check for basics, and what things you should be checking before reporting a fault with your ISP.

Broadband - Connecting you to the world in seconds

You see, the internet is a wonderful thing. The smallest of problems though can have massive consequences. That 5 minute video that you were watching could take a lifetime to buffer. I know just how much people HATE buffering. Stay tuned for some detailed articles about helping yourself with your broadband. I'm planning a rollout in the new year.

You'll probably hear from me tomorrow before I sign off for Christmas completely. Until then, stay safe and enjoy the time off (if you've finished for Christmas, that is)

Last minute shopping

With Christmas only a couple of days away, I think it's time for me to finalise my shopping and get wrapping. This is the thing, I'm always last minute. I always have been.

I don't necessarily do it on purpose. I do just think, "oh, It's two weeks away, I have plenty of time left" - so I put it to the back of my mind. I then look at the date and think "oh my gosh, 2 days to go and I STILL haven't bought anything". Granted, I do have cards sorted. Well, for my girlfriend at least. In fairness, if I didn't have Sam I would right up the creek without a paddle at the moment. Luckily, she bought everyone's presents before I even had chance to forget what day it was. Needless to say, I now owe her half of the costs but that's not a problem at all! Sharing is caring after all.

My New Year's resolution this year is definitely going to be "GET ORGANISED". I seriously lack organisation and this isn't a good thing. I have big things planned for 2013, it's the time when my son is introduced into the world. If I'm not organised by then I'll have no hope for me ever getting organised. I should take a leaf out of Sam's book, always fully prepared well in advance and when the time comes, perfect precision. D'oh.

(Christmas is in 2 days! How prepared are you?)

I have definitely forgotten the meaning of Christmas over the last couple of years. I haven't enjoyed it nearly as much as I used to, or should. It's a time that is always spent with the people I love and hold dear so it should be the happiest and most special of times in my life. I'm hoping that this year I re-kindle my love for Christmas. Sure, it's been commercialised up to the rafters but that doesn't matter. I don't care how many presents I got, or how much money my neighbours spent on their children. At the end of the day, it's quite possibly the only time I get to see all of my family in the same place at the same time.

Here's to a fantastic Christmas!

Oh, and before I forget - have a fantastic New Year as well.