I managed to pick up some 99¢ rolls of wrapping paper, a uber-cute gingerbread boy cookie pan by Wilton,
and lovely tea towel embroidered with "MERRY CHRISTMAS" and a vintage bucket to set in my living room. I also picked up a $4.99 bulletin board for my DD, who's been wanting a big one for ages (only had a tiny one till now.) Tried to find some white Christmas lights for my son's room (his request) but none of the stores we went to that day had any. That's okay. Mom was able to give him some of her lights (she has MORE than plenty) and I even "splurged" for some push pins for him to hang the lights over. LOL
Later that evening my step-dad got their tree out (first fake Christmas tree ever for them, I think, sans their "Charlie Brown" craft-style tree Mom's used a couple of times.) It was prelit and Mom even debated whether to decorate it or not.
But tradition prevailed and of course it was! I think it was decorated mostly for the chance for her to make up her typical "tree decorating food fest." LOL (Don't cha just LOVE it, SEESTER???)
The "tree decorating food fest" ALWAYS has smoked sausage, cheese balls, peanut brittle, various crackers and dips, veggies, and miscellaneous candies. ALWAYS. This is one tradition I've managed to keep and bring into my own family. It is one NOT to be missed. Add in some Christmas carols on the CD player, Cable Radio, or what have you... and you're set. (Seester, I truly hope when you put YOUR decorations up you go to the bother to make up a little "food fest" for yourself! And take pictures!)
Mom's tree.
