It's the Holiday Season...

It's hard to believe that Thanksgiving has come and gone and now Christmas is just around the corner.

Do you have your tree up?

Have you started shopping?

We don't have our tree up, but more on that subject further down in the post.

I have about 98% of my shopping done.  Just need to get a few gift cards which I can do locally.  I am the type of person that gets stressed out easily (just ask Brad if you don't believe me!) so I start early so that I am done by the middle of December. 

One of the traditions that the girls and I have been doing for about 3 years now, is we take a trip to the Warm Glow Candle Outlet.  We normally go in December, but with B being in school our time is limited so we went during her fall break this year.

Even though it was the last week in October they were still beginning to deck the halls...

(these photos taken with my phone so please don't judge) 

I could take one of everything in the store! 

I loved, loved, loved this, but didn't think it would fit in with my decor.... 

They usually have a train set up, but I think we were too early this year.  We may just have to go back!

My sister is lucky enough to live about 20 minutes from Warm Glow so she has joined us the last couple years.  

B and Taylor (my sister's daughter)... 

They have a fish pond outside that the girls always have to check out.  Mel always has to stand right on the edge.  She is always making me nervous!.... 

This weekend is their open house!   Santa will be there.  Live entertainment.  The train will be set up.  Wine tasting!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  Food Sampling!!!!!!!!!!!!!  Discounts!  If you love close by and are looking for something to do, check it out.  You won't be disappointed.  Promise!

Brad's birthday is December 7th.

He is normally pretty laid back about things, but one thing he is adamant about is that there is no Christmas tree until after his birthday.

I'm okay with it.    I'm one of the lucky ones that has a birthday in May which is almost smack dab in the middle of the year.  I don't have to worry about my birthday being pushed aside because of all the hustle and bustle of the holidays.  So each year his wish is granted.

B normally asks a couple times, "When do we get to put up the Christmas tree?"

My reply, "After Daddy's birthday."

She's okay with it also.

However, we always put up the girls' pink Christmas tree the day after Thanksgiving.

Brad's doesn't complain.

Maybe it's because it's in B's room and he doesn't have to see it all the time. 

We also set up the Nativity Scene the day after Thanksgiving.

This is my favorite Christmas decoration.

I would love to leave it up all year, but I know I wouldn't appreciate it as much so it stays up until the new year. 

We started and Advent calendar again this year.

We attempted it when B was little and she didn't understand that you only got one surprise each day.  She wanted to open all the doors and take everything out.  If there wasn't something in there she would throw a temper tantrum until I gave in.  I know, I know...not good parenting.  Please don't tell Super Nanny! 

Each morning there are two pieces of candy waiting for them in the correct door.

Sorry Mrs. H and Mrs. B if B comes to school with a sugar high.  It will only be for the month of December! 

I hope you are enjoying all the preparations of the holiday season without being too stressed!