quicko: the (lack of) build up

Besides the heat and distinctly non-Christmasy landscape, I think the biggest difference between Christmas in Australia and America is the lack of build up to it in Australia.  You know it's coming, but it's just not nearly as prevalent in society -- the music at stores, the decorations everywhere, the lights on houses, the smells, the general attitude.  It's weird ... it's there a little, but the vibe is just different.  It's like there's a holiday, but a different one.  A good one, but not the same.