Yes, feeling inadequate about gift giving seems to be going around a lot this Christmas. I'm feeling exactly the same. It's hard to bring up the 'skipping gifts' discussion; I tried to hint to people that I would not be able to get them much this year in the hope that they wouldn't get me much either; it failed and now I have received many more gifts then I have given. *sigh*

That book sounds pretty good, apart from Louis having short hair (I echo your WHY??? to that!). I like the idea of the artwork being in black and white except for the blood and fire; enough for me to try to hunt it down myself at any rate. I'm glad that you got your Lacrimosa CD - have you had the time to listen to it properly yet?

Anyway I hope, between all the inadequateness and sluggishness, that you have had a Merry Christmas. And I also hope you find the time for a 'chill-out' day soon!