I'm Here! Really. Honest.

My Christmas tree back when it was on the porch.

It is only the 4th of December and it already seems like a tidal wave of activities have overtaken my time.  This has been one of those weeks when I was out and about more than usual.  With a couple more errands to do today.

And then there was the decorating of the house... at one time it looked like the North Pole had exploded and landed in every room but our bedroom and the tiny office.  I did that on purpose, knowing if I got every Christmas box out and put them in the middle of the family room, I would slowly get the decorating accomplished.  Decorate a little... rest... decorate a little... rest, etc.

So over the period of three days, I unpacked the look and feel of Christmas.  The tree lights this year didn't work (fortunately I found out before putting the ornaments on the tree, next year I will test them immediately).  I was finally able to make a quick run to Meijers to purchase a couple of boxes yesterday.  The tree will be decorated today and I can hardly wait.

When I assembled the tree this year, my husband remarked at how pathetic it looks.  It is the epitome of a Charlie Brown tree.  I reminded him this is the same tree we used to put out on the porch each year (photo above).  I started using it inside a few years ago and you know, once it is decorated it really looks fine.  Just like Charlie Brown's tree.

This is a year I wanted glitter and glowing and all things that sparkle.  This is a year to decorate.  Some years?  Bleh... no thanks.  There have been a few Christmas seasons I forced myself to put the tree up and get it decorated.  Last year was one of those.

A few dear blog friends noticed a different sound to my posts this year and you are right.  I'm a little more ho-ho-ho this year and less Bah Humbug. 

While I do love Advent readings and calendars and such, my Inner Calendar for the Christmas Holidays begins with Christopher's birthday (sometimes on Thanksgiving), then Thanksgiving, then Stephanie's birthday, then my mother's birthday (even though she has been in Heaven for many years), and now my daughter-in-law's birthday, then Christmas.

In the midst of busyness, I did want to pop in and send out a hello.  I still need to finish the last few chapters of my next review book.  It will get posted tomorrow (Friday).  See you then!