Day 1200 Warm Up

 

So long, autumn decor, Thanksgiving marks the official shift to the Christmas holiday! Tim and I had a fantastic Thanksgiving at Ray and Alida’s. Turkey and all the fixings were on the table, but what really struck me was that the house was already fully decorated for Christmas! Thanksgiving dinner surrounded by Christmas trees, lights, and snowmen—and I’ve gotta say, I loved it. Looks like I’ll be busy this weekend swapping out pumpkins for holiday cheer.

And although many folks have been asking if we’re hosting another Christmas party, I’ve decided to push it out and plan something for mid-January instead. We’ll ring in the new year and take the party pressure off my shoulders during the busy month of December. It also gives me a fun new focus for decor—it's always sad to see the Christmas things packed up and put away, but now I can go all out with silver, gold, and sparkle for the new year.

Tim and I had a relaxing Thanksgiving morning, followed by a rare visit with my oldest brother before heading to my in-laws mid-afternoon. I love hosting Thanksgiving, but it was kind of nice to show up and have dinner made for me… and my sister-in-law even sent us home with leftovers! Our kids all seem to scatter for Thanksgiving—somehow I get everyone for Easter, with Christmas always a hit or miss for the crew. I remember how tough it was to make the holiday rounds so happily take whatever holiday slice I can get. 

I’m grateful for a few days off to clean the house, swap decor, and party plan—time always feels like the most elusive commodity! We’ve been busy marking our calendar, flipping to a month already full of fun holiday happenings. Thanksgiving texts and calls reminded me just how thankful I am to be surrounded by such amazing friends and family—blessed beyond words. Thanksgiving always feels like the warm-up (and a very delicious warm-up!) that catapults us into the Christmas season… ready, set, go!

Here’s to embracing the sparkle, the chaos, and the joy of the season ahead. May the next few weeks be filled with warmth, wonder, and just the right amount of magic. ...and a party here and there! 

“Blessed is the season which engages the whole world in a conspiracy of love.” — Hamilton Wright Mabie