Oh, the Holidays Are Here!

 A wonderful, special crazy time of year! Over-the-top decorations, twinkling lights, good food enjoyed with family and friends, shared laughter, and silent moments of wonder in the still of the night all make the holidays a extraordinary time of year.

When I was young, we began crafting holiday decorations right after Thanksgiving. The "Christmas Ideas" issue of Better Homes & Gardens magazine was our guide. I still buy it, although I don't think there are as many crafts in it now as there were then. And I still make decorations and ornaments. One year, I made small wreaths out of bells which I tie to the back of the stools at my kitchen island. The jingle as I move a stool makes me smile.

Thanksgiving also marked the day on which I could begin playing Christmas carols on my piano. Now, Christmas carols are about the only thing I play on the piano and I do so purely for my own enjoyment. That was also the day we pulled out the Christmas record albums - Bing Crosby, The Andrews Sisters, and Frank Sinatra to name just a few..

Holiday baking started a couple of weeks before Christmas. My mom made the cookies; my dad decorated them with a little help from me and my brother. My dad also did all the dishes. I go a little crazy with my holiday backing. Last year I made 9 kinds of cookies and fruitcake liberally soaked with 151-proof rum. All of which I share with family and friends.

When we were little in the weeks leading up to Christmas, my mom and dad blocked of the living room where magical things were happening - oh the excitement of waiting to see what was there. All was revealed on Christmas Eve night - a glistening tree, a fabulous train in a winder wonderland setting, and packages that Santa brought. With 2 rambunctious dogs and 3 inquisitive cats, I've given up having a tree. But garlands, wreaths and lights still make my living room magical.

Wishing you a magical holiday season!