Jesus as pitchbaby?

In a recent story on MSNBC, I learned that the American Family Association has apparently declared progress against what they referred to as American retailers' "War on Christmas" - where retailers tend to celebrate 'holidays' and not 'Christmas'.

For what it's worth, I'm fine with 'Happy Holidays' being used by retailers. As a former ad executive, I could stomach Joseph (a carpenter by trade) shilling for Craftsman Tools, but I cannot trust my former advertising colleagues not to trade Baby Jesus' swaddling clothes for a Snuggie - size small. I find that prospect more than a little disquieting.

The AFA should be careful what they wish for.

Time-out

For years retailers have been trying to get a jump on the others for the first to the rafters with wreaths and red elves. This year, this sign at Nordstroms has been making the rounds of social media to great response.

Interpreting customer sentiment and positioning yourself uniquely as the 'anti-', as branding experts would say. The anti-Christmas retailer.

Well done, Nordstroms. You're all on Santa's good list this year.