Ed says that around here everyday is Christmas. He's right. Christ is always with us--everyday, always. It's just at this time of year we start sprucing things up a bit with lights and things and keeping secrets from one another. He also says, "don't ask questions at Christmas time." :) With help from Linda, Janice and Libby we finally got the house decorated.
We did it piece by piece a day at a time. The showmen always have a place right behind the sofa in the kitchen. It's easy for Sam to climb up and mash the button for the showmen to dance and sing. He gets that from his Nana. I love "pushing the buttons." :) 
For the mantle to be so simple, it took forever. I couldn't decide how to do it and Libby took over.
After that we got the tables set up and decorated. I love it when everything is on the table and the candles are lit.
I decided at the last minute ( actually several days) that I wanted to make something for the ladies. I love giving homemade gifts that show you've given your time and energy as well as a gift. Ed had even given me a wonderful way to display them that we found while going through a closet.
Ed did a nice welcome to our friends. He even prepared ahead of time.
The house looked great and dinner was wonderful. I won't tell you what we had lest you be jealous and send me lots of hate mail. Let's just say that Santa came early and everyone was very happy. We couldn't have done it with out the great caterers and these two great girls--"YaYa" and Janice. They are my lifesavers.
The Christmas cookies and candy are waiting for me to bake and deliver. I look forward to singing in the contata (not once but twice!) and enjoying time with the grandchildren and friends.
I hope for you the best of Christmases. Remember why you are celebrating.
