Ah yes, it’s that time of the year again… the commercialization of Jesus Christ’s birth. Actually, I believe the Christmas shopping season begins on so-called “Black Friday” (in this country anyway) – the day after Thanksgiving (also in this country); specifically, this Friday, the 27th of November.

Here are a couple of items that I was made aware of this morning:

First, for you Mijac fans out there… or if there’s a Mijac fan on your shopping list:

The Official Michael Jackson Opus is the career anthology the legend himself was helping to create, and the only one approved and endorsed by his estate. The leather hand-bound book with silk covered case contains more than 400 pages of stunning and never-before-seen photographs from Michael’s private archives, punctuated by personal quotes and anecdotes from big names in entertainment. And this baby can be yours (or for someone else) for just $249!

CLICK HERE for more.

Secondly, for those of you who still buy DVDs… or if there’s a movie lover on your list:

Amazon.com has slashed prices sharply on its inventory of Criterion Collection movies. Save up to 57% with DVDs from $13.99, or Blu-rays from $15.99. Classics like The 400 Blows, The Third Man, 8 1/2, The Seventh Seal, Seven Samurai, and much more. Each loaded with so many extra features that a second disk was necessary in most cases. Introduce your friends and family to Criterion this holiday season, give the gift of art on film. Sale ends December 28, 2009 (my birthday, by the way ). Interested? CLICK HERE.

Alright, that’s all I’ve got for now!