Usually the silly season is the one that just ended -- the months leading up to November elections. Earlier today, however, I discovered it is in fact the start of another silly season -- the holiday shopping season. I went to the local Circuit City today to pick up "Gears of War," the Xbox360's newest "killer app." What did I find when I pulled up to the door? Several people with tents pitched outside the store.

Why?

Because they're waiting in line for the PlayStation 3 launch -- a week from tomorrow. That's right, the line has formed 8 days early.

Can someone explain to me how people who apparently have no jobs they need to go to can afford a game system that's going to run them a minimum of $600?