I'm usually the first to say Christmas in November? Way too soon! But here I am, in a Christmas state of mind, pulling out the window lights, thinking about wreaths, ribbons, and when to put up the Christmas trees. We usually have two full-size trees (7–9 feet), one in the family room and one in the keeping room.
It's all a matter of timing this year. Thanksgiving will be a quiet affair, dinner for Mr. H and me at a local restaurant before flying to Australia early the next morning. We won't be back at Tahilla Farm until the week before Christmas, with jet lag to contend with and family arriving for Christmas Day shortly after.
I've been here before. Christmas preparations and jet lag are not the happiest of companions, but you manage. So I'm thinking one tree might have to go up before Thanksgiving, ready to greet us when we return. Maybe the second tree doesn't happen at all, now that granddaughter Sloane is a keen crawler and grabber. Perhaps a few wreaths and window lights, too. And while I'm at it, why not get a little more done? Because really, isn't there something wonderful about returning home after a long trip to find everything waiting in all its cozy holiday glory?
You can see where this is going. And actually, I'm rather enjoying it. A little departure from the fading colors of autumn, the bare branches and quieting gardens, to imagine fresh greenery, holly, velvet ribbons, and perhaps a dusting of snow.
Speaking of velvet ribbons, I came across a clever little idea on Instagram for making velvet garlands. Naturally, I now want to find my glue gun, which hasn't seen daylight in years, and give it a go. When? I have absolutely no idea. But that's the fun of a creative idea, isn't it? Once it takes hold, you start wondering how to make it happen.
Even in November. Especially in November, apparently.
