I saw it many times, that is why I was surprised by how many people were upset and surprised the first week of November when they already began to hear Christmas music and see christmas decor. It seems to be appropriate to wait until the day after Thanksgiving to begin Christmas season. Aw, the day after Thanksgiving... The day after we take time to say what we're thankful for, then trample anyone who gets in our way for the things that we want. That seems to fit with the complaints I saw on facebook about the "Give-me give-me attitude." For many, Christmas Season seems to cause a negative reaction. I blame it on the way I was raised, that when I think of Christmas, I only think of positive. Maybe I have been able to keep this optimism because I do not have children yet.
I have surprised many in casual conversation when they found out in September, that I was done with ALL of my Christmas shopping. Yes, I tend to have Christmas on my mind all year long, and when a good deal comes around, it's never to early for Christmas! It's natural for me, like many, to procrastinate. So I go out of my way to compensate. Like guaranteeing to my clients that their photos will be delivered to them within 1 week of their session or Wedding, always answering e-mails the moment I receive them, or buying Christmas presents in the Summer. But I'm sure that with all my Christmas shopping done so early, this is what contributes to my positive Holiday season. While I'm excited to give the Christmas gifts that I've held onto for months to their recipients, I'm not thinking about gifts or shopping in December or even November! I'm thinking of Jesus Christ and his wonderful life. I'm taking the time I would spend on shopping, and spending it on Christmas activities like festivals, Live Nativities, or light displays and parades. I also get to spend this time watching Christmas movies, Listening to Christmas music, and making Christmas time treats! I just don't think 2 months is long enough for all that Christmas time has to offer! My favorite decor piece in my home, is my Lighted Christmas tree, and I am genuinely sad to take it down in January.
I think that living 2.2 miles from Walt Disney World is also a big help to my early Holiday happiness as Disney World is already in full swing Christmas! I am so lucky to be able to have my spirits lifted so high just by making the 5 minute drive to Magic Kingdom! Other than the 80 degree weather, it doesn't just feel like its getting closer to Christmas time, it is Christmas time at Magic Kingdom! And I can't wait to go see the Candle light processional again and again at Epcot. If you haven't done that yet, DO IT! Every night (3 times per night) between November 29th and December 30th, Disney brings in a Star Guest Speaker to Narrate the Christmas Story from the bible mingled with beautiful Christmas Stories, all done with a large, live Orchestra and Choir with stunning music. I have reservations already to see Neil Patrick Harris on December 2nd!
As a child, I counted down to Christmas as the best day ever! But now It's the entire Christmas season I can't wait for, and Christmas Day tends to be a bit sad, because I don't want the season to end. There just isn't enough minutes between now and Christmas to listen to all of my favorite Christmas music. What a happy time this is!
