Life Unscripted....

This week I find myself trying to swallow and get over my BAH HUMBUG attitude, thanks to encouragement from some wonderful readers (((((and because we have kids in the house.  Hubby says we have to decorate to please the kids))))))

I think my attitude comes from some Christmas past when I have been made to feel like my efforts to or for others are inferior.  This year may be a bit of a challenge too with two families in one house with clearly different expectations.  We usually keep Christmas small.  Three gifts each for the kids, and a stocking if funding allows.  My nephew and his family if I understand what they are saying like a big Christmas because that is how they express their love for one another or something like that.  This comes from issues from Christmas events in their childhood and not getting much or something like that.

I also hate all the commercials that comes on that are all about consumerism trying to make people feel like they have to have all the great decorations in order for Christmas to be perfect ( i mean i know the point is to make you go out and buy things)  and it is effective because it makes me wish I could decorate like that.  

I was really worried our tree was ruined from the two little girl kitties we took in last year.  They hopped in the tree and bent the bottom branches severly downward.   When we brought in the tree though, my husband rearranged the living room to make it fit.  I really didn't think we would have room. I was able to bend the bottom branches into a shape that works. (I appreciate all the wonderful ideas you guys shared about alternatives.)  We decorated it.  Here is the end result.  (Ms. Paula, this pic is for you...lol)

 I have always wanted a big pretty tree skirt but I am not willing to pay retail for one...so it is what it is.  We put it in front of the window.  A favorite part of Christmas for me is the lights.  I love being able to see the lights on trees glowing in the window.  I remember my grandparents taking me around neighborhoods as a child to look at lights when I went to their house on visitation after my mom died.

We took our curtain down for now so ours could be seen.  Though it may only be seen by us and the neighbors.

My husband even hung a string of lights outside.  It's not much, but it's perfect for us.  I also spent alot of the week researching, finalizing ideas, and collecting some things to finish Christmas shopping. I also have some DIY projects in mind.

Do you decorate for Christmas.  What kind of tree do you use?  I was recently told about a Jesse tree, and may look into doing that too, because we need something that will draw us back to the real reason for this season.  What ways do you celebrate Jesus?  I would love to hear your ideas.

We have also had a talk with our nephew asking what his plans are in terms of moving out.  I am not sure if I upset him, but i was dismayed to hear they have saved nothing yet.  The increased child support payments have not started, and I encouraged him not to wait and depend on that money to move.  There is a house next to us, that apparently will be available the first of the year.  They may look into that. He is thinking of working overtime to help meet the monetary demands of moving out.  I just told him our arrangement isn't working.  Each family gets grumpy because of something the other one does or does not do.  



Did I mention that homeless things seem to just find us.  This week we found this guy in our yard.

We have plastered his face all over face book.  Asked the neighbors if they are missing a dog....for now he is staying here.  (I can hear you groaning saying what is wrong with you)  I know I don't need another dog.  We are still waiting to see if an owner shows up.  Tomorrow I am taking him to a local vet to check for a microchip.  He is pretty smart.  Seems to be housebroken.  Acts like he lives here.  We will see what happens.  

Did you have any surprises in your week?