The start of the Christmas season has been creeping up day by day and week by week for years now – and across the world at that. I remember feeling like it began strictly the day after Thanksgiving, but we all know stores now sell ornaments and stockings right alongside Halloween costumes and the latest Thanksgiving table settings.
Even with years of warning, however, I was not prepared for the shock it would be to my internal calendar to head straight into Christmas this year. Starting in October. Without those buffer holidays. With years of experience living outside the US, and wanting to think my degree in international business (fancy title for study of cultural differences) makes me slightly less ignorant than strangers might expect, I did not realize how, subconsciously, my psyche has been programmed to rely on these milestones since our last overseas move.
I love Christmas. There is something magical about the sea of red and green or the winter wonderland décor that has been oozing out of every department store and street lamp since October 1st. The start of the season is exciting – filled with anticipation and shopping lists – but I admit, I’m a little disoriented. How soon before the palm trees are lit (just kidding. that was Charleston last year. where am I now??) and the garland is hung? And again, as it’s only October, won’t we all be sick and tired of this by Christmas??
Let the Christmas begin! I have a pine tree with already strung lights. One red rug and one green rug for the basement play area for Aria- 11 months and Connor 5 years. Bob is working on the Lionel train set. Christmas plates and mugs to be washed. We will celebrate into the middle of January. England rocks.
Sounds like a great time of year at your house!! :)
….and in Dubai we’re just happy that it’s cooling down enough to walk outside in the evening! There’s no way to mentally prepare for Christmas here except to turn up the air conditioning, close the curtains, make hot cocoa and listen to Christmas carols, after a swim in the ocean!
that sounds pretty good right now!
So interesting! Our neighbors down the street moved to the States from England two years ago. I wonder if they love Halloween and Thanksgiving?? They do have fall decor on their porch!! Love reading your blog Carrie!
They may be embracing their new culture better than we are right now! hehe. It’s hard not to love celebrating the fall season as long as possible :) Thanks for reading!
Agreed. It’s a little creepy to be picking out magical stockings next to creepy halloween costumes. CONSUMERISM. K why don’t you come over now.
Be right over! ;)