Ever since I’ve been in America, I’ve been suckered in by infomercials and clever advertising. Recently I ordered something called a ‘Miracle Mitt’ The advert sounded so good and it said if you ordered immediately you would get a free mitt and so I impulsively placed my order forthwith. The mitts duly arrived some time later and I opened the package a little apprehensively. I think I was already suffering from buyer’s remorse. It’s like getting home from the honeymoon and realizing that the unshaven creature snoring beside you is your husband. As soon as I opened the package, I had to try it out immediately and so I donned one of the gloves and set about cleaning an assortment of surfaces. The mitt was supposed to attract dirt and dust like a magnet and everything I touched would be instantaneously and magically cleaned with almost no effort on my part. It didn’t quite work out like that and after a short while I had to concede that the ‘miracle’ was nothing more extraordinary than a piece of material shaped like a mitt. What a disappointment! I had paid close to $ 20 including shipping and handling (isn't that appropriate?) for something that probably cost a nickel to make. Has this taught me a lesson? I’m afraid not. I’m ashamed to admit that I need to stay clear from infomercials. When I do watch them, if I were not restrained, I would probably order a plethora of useless items. Nothing ever looks as good as it does on TV. The kitchen helpers are the absolute worst. The professional chef makes chopping, mincing, dicing and slicing look so easy with the magic whotsit, you think it will be an absolute breeze. Then reality comes and slaps you upside the head and you realize that you are the ultimate sucker after all. 

Just as an aside, why do all these adverts contain the word ‘Magic’ or ‘Miracle’? The only magical thing about them is the way they make your cash disappear. ;)

HO HO HO! For those who celebrate Christmas, have a wonderful day tomorrow.