Happiness on a 1/2 Acre

 We got our tree in on Sunday the 16th.  I am usually a December 10th kind of gal, but I was so fine waiting another week for the tree to come into our home.  I have a little too much of my mother in me - I hate the mess of the tree so that is why I wait so long to get it in.  That is what I always tell myself anyway.  But I have to admit that I had other motives this year.  

Christmas this year has been focused on the birth of Jesus at our home.  Our house has been decorated in every other way since December 2nd - lights galore, nativities, gingerbread houses, wreaths, garlands, a whole bunch of Christmas and snowmen do-das.  Just not the tree.  Its funny.  My kids haven't really talked about what they want or what they are getting for Christmas this year unless someone outside our home asks them.  We haven't focused on gifts and presents this year and I think NOT having the tree in helped with that.

 We have talked alot about what to do to be a better member of our family, how we can help others, and even some "Santa is watching you" stories.  But not alot of selfish, "what I want", kind of talk.  It has been nice.  REALLY nice! 

We did have a great night decorating the tree, and I have been busy for the past few nights wrapping presents to put under that tree.  Christmas is such a fun time for everyone, especially my sweet kids.  I can't wait for them to open the presents Matt and I have picked out for them.  To see their happy faces and to be excited not only for what they receive, but to be excited for what their siblings receive as well.

 On a different note - 

I got the buttonholes made and buttons sewn onto my new bodice for our civil war Christmas Party this weekend.  Now just to do the buttons for the white chemisette that goes under it!  

By the way, when a woman wears a hat either in summer or winter, what it really means is

I DON'T WANT TO PUT THE EFFORT INTO DOING MY HAIR TODAY SO I WILL JUST PUT A HAT ON AND HOPE NOBODY NOTICES.