Christmas Traditions...

Driving home tonight, Andrew cried out "What are they thinking?! Christmas lights already! Don't they know it isn't even... hmm... what's that Mom?  Oh yeah, Thanksgiving... yet?!"

I have no idea where he would have heard something like this! 

It really is a pet peeve of mine to see Christmas lights on before Thanksgiving.  Now, I don't mind people putting them up in preparation, just puh-lease don't turn them on until after the Turkey Day!  And if you see someone in camouflage sneaking around outdoor electrical outlets of a well lit house... it wasn't me!

I feel like each holiday should have its own time and traditions.  For instance, for at least 15 years my parents have hosted Thanksgiving lunch at their house.  After stuffing ourselves full of the turkey, Aunt Mary Lou's banana pudding, and an assortment of pies, we head to the basketball gym for a little friendly family competition.  It is a big part of what everyone looks forward to every year.  Then we come back and watch the latest Disney movie out for the year.  Good times.  Thanksgiving first, then on to the Christmas traditions!

However, another thing that has been bothering me lately - and probably more than lights glowing their Christmas cheer before Thanksgiving - is the "gimmes" of the season.  I have always noticed them...and have even had them as a child - the GIMMES! ...but not like I have noticed after having children of my own who have caught the infectious wanting of material things!

To think about how commercialized Christmas has become makes me want to rip up this year's issue of the nicely laid out Big Book from Toys-R-Us!  Now, I have nothing against buying fabulous toys that they sell...in fact I will be visiting them to collect an item or two for Christmas gifts in the near future.

But I also want to make Christmas gifts for those I know would love something handmade.  Last year I made both of my sisters, my sister-in-law, my mother-in-law and my mom a wreath for their front doors.  I carefully choose the colors for each of their wreaths and spent a couple of nights putting them together.  They looked similar to this final product:

I have a couple of homemade gift ideas up my sleeve for this year.  I really like thinking of different items people could use or want that have a more meaningful touch...and is something completely unexpected! 

Not everyone likes surprises, but I sure do and I like creating them too!  So I will be sharing the ideas I find with you as we countdown to Thanksgiving and Christmas.  Each in their own turn!  (Don't forget to turn off the lights, pretty please.)