I am definitely a holiday purist and can’t stand the fact that stores start putting out Christmas decorations before Halloween. It actually aggravates me to hear Christmas music before Thanksgiving. I’m the type of person who wants to enjoy each holiday before moving on to the next event. Continue reading
Category Archives: Seasons/Holidays
A Spotlight on the Holidays
When September arrives and the leaves start to turn, the kiddos return to school and best of all the holiday season begins. I like to take my holidays one at a time. I will avoid stores that start playing Christmas music in September. Granted the retailers have to maximize sales. At the same time, we all know that Christmas is December 25 every year. Do we really need to hear “Jingle Bells” in September to know Christmas is coming? Continue reading
Less is More
I am a holiday purist to the fullest extent.
I have a pet peeve. I believe each holiday should be celebrated one at a time. When one holiday has ended it is time to start the next. Now, I think leaving decorations a couple of days after the holiday is o.k., but then it is time to move forward. Continue reading
No More White Elephant Gifts
I can truthfully say that I can’t remember ever receiving a gift that I didn’t like or appreciate. I always feel the thought behind the gift is what really counts. Continue reading
White Elephant Waste
When it comes to gift giving, I try very hard to come up with something that will mean something to the recipient. Not everyone goes through the same amount of thought that I do though. I can’t say that I’ve ever received a really horrible present except when it comes to participation in a White Elephant gift exchange. Continue reading
Thoughtless Gift
Thinking about the “worst” present I have received has been a challenge. I have been lucky to receive just what I’d been wishing for from Santa and the important people in my life. I loved my skis and boots. My emerald earrings and necklace were unexpected and perfect. I always loved receiving new flannel pjs when I was a kid and my Bonnie Braids and Revlon Bride doll were just what I wanted. Continue reading
Please, No Socks or Underwear For Me
Our family has participated in a “Secret Santa” gift exchange for the last several years. (This year, I believe there are 17 family members involved.) Each person gets one name and buys a gift (spending up to $25) for that person.
What makes it so fun and special is that no one is going to give, or get, something that is…necessary. All gifts will be tokens of thoughtfulness. I think there are 4 main rules that we follow to amplify enjoyment. Continue reading
Food Coma
Thanksgiving is probably my favorite holiday. Our family takes turns in sharing the different holidays. Our daughter, Lisa, is always the hostess for Thanksgiving. This started when my son-in-law, Craig, shared that he loved to make the turkey. So, he got the job of hostessing Thanksgiving and dragged his wife, Lisa, along for the ride whether she was in agreement or not. Continue reading
Thankful for Tradition
Our family has divided holidays between Mom, Lisa, Judy, and myself. We celebrate Christmas at Mom’s house, Judy and I alternate Easter at our homes and Lisa gets Thanksgiving. Because of this, when someone asks me how I’m celebrating the holiday – I gratefully get to say “I don’t have to host or cook – I just get to enjoy the day!” Continue reading
Tables of Thanks
Thanksgiving is a very nostalgic holiday for me. I cherish the warm and special moments spent with family for as long as I can remember. The first Thanksgiving table was at Mom and Dad’s home on MacArthur Drive. The next large table I remember was in Michael’s and my home on Scott St. More recently, the big table on Rose Circle has been the setting for our holiday memories. Lisa and Craig have created a special Thanksgiving for all of us for the past twenty years. Continue reading