We did not decorate Thanksgiving weekend. Even as we walk around big red plastic containers, there is no regret. Thanksgiving was at Will and Hailey’s.

There is no snow this year either! It is cold though!

christmas this year and a few years ago

Today, it is 9 days until Christmas this year. Jim and I are not quite finished decorating. Being fully empty nesters, we can take our time to prepare for Christmas. Tonight Nancy and Nathan are coming with our 5 grandkids for dinner. Meg will be here too. 

I could get so worked up at not being ‘done’. It’s been a busy plus my shoulder is acting up. Funny how a simple thing can make me slow down to decide what really we want to do for decorating and decking the halls this year.

finishing touches

We have just a couiple of simple things to put up like bead garland in the kitchen and bows on the front porch garland.  Later, we’ll prepare a ham dinner for the 10 of us.

We miss our helpers Amy and Meg who have moved into their own places   

The girls would carry all the containers down from the attic. Unpacking treasures from the past is always a fun thing.

When Amy had friends over, one of the girls said our home reminded her of her grandmother’s on Christmas Eve.

What a great compliment!

Sunday there was more snow that year! Our little spot was being decorated in the most beautiful way possible for the season.

Pristine, sparkly snow!

Nature’s decor is the best.  Slowly, the inside was being decked for Christmas as the snow fell.

Triple Trees

That year, we put one tree up in the living room. Meg said ALL the decorations must go go on!  I did put some of the decorations for the house back in the boxes for another year.

This year we put up 3 trees! Two are in the living room. More on that later. One is in the middle room.

The middle room is now a sitting room. We read there and play games on the French card table. This is what greets us each morniong when we come downstairs.

christmas to come

Having the girls around to bring down bins and boxes is helpful. Meg went sledding instead. Amy wrapped the front porch posts and hung the wreath.

We’re counting the days until Amy is home. Meg will also be around since her work schedule slows down by Christmas Eve. Robert, Jessica and their boys are coming up too.

Though Nancy and family are coming over, there is no gift giving tonight. That comes later in January when we all get together.

the Nativity

This nativity is from Jim’s mother. It is a family treasure. Often I pause in front of the dining room buffet where it is displayed this year and just reflect on the amazing love that brought Jesus to us.

Hope you have wonderful weekend.