Just because he's putting them up doesn't mean he's turning them on.
A lot of people get them on before the weather gets really bad.
Exactly! I try and get them up before it gets too damn cold. I waited too late this year, because it's too damn COLD! I don't turn them on until after Thanksgiving, though, and get annoyed at those that do. A little respect for the Turkey, ya know?
I pride myself on doing my lights and decorations RIGHT. Too many people just seem to toss them out the door, and call it quits. I do the whole color coordination thing, and make sure it's all even and looks great. It's the designer in me.
I dig Christmas just fine. I can't stand commercialism, and all the forced "happiness". I say do you're own thing, and enjoy it your own way. I prefer it more low key. Enjoy the food, exchange a few gifts(like many others I FAR prefer to give, than receive), and try and take advantage of some of the seasonal events/shows.
I would happily go all season without hearing a single, awful Christmas song. I can only tolerate a few songs, like some by TSO, and instrumentals by George Winston.