An odd mix of guilty pleasure, dreaming and disgust ran through my mind when I picked up the Neiman Marcus Christmas book in my mailbox after returning from vacation today.

Heather on the Beehive has already shared one of the most conversation-inspiring gifts featured in the catalog: the Cupcake Car.

I imagine it's something of a challenge for the creators to put together this yearly book in the face one of the worst recessions in decades. Its fantasy gifts include everything from the $105,000 2010 XJL Supercharged Neiman Marcus Edition Jaguar with 470 horsepower and matching luggage to a $12,000 chandelier made from plastic soda bottles.

The department store has toned down its fantasy gifts, according to this story, with the most expensive costing $250,000 for the his and hers aircraft. In years past, gifts ranged up to $20 million.

The company seems to be acknowledging today's tough times, pointing out that almost half the gifts are less than $250 (even if they are $90 Burberry pajamas for your toddler or a $58 koi salt and pepper shaker set.)

Still, it's fun to lust after the $348 sequin leggings that I'll never own.

So, what do you think, readers? Is my guilt at devouring such a catalog while 14.6% of Fresno County residents are out of work justified? Or should I just chalk it up to fantasy and enjoy the pages of pretty things to look at?