Yes. I am one of "those."

My family and I have always decorated for Christmas at the beginning of November; and on occasions, in October. While it may seem ridiculous to pull out the box of holiday decorations, and set up the 'ole tree before other major holidays have made their annual appearance, the good feeling that comes with preparing for the most wonderful time of year is a warm and happy sensation. Comforting at best.

As a kid, I always anticipated bringing down the Christmas decorations we kept stored away in our attic. If any reader remembers watching the Christmas episode of "The Family Circus", yep, that was me. My parents were in charge of pulling them out of the boxes, and it was my duty to sit back and just watch. Of course this didn't last long. Mom eventually gave way to my siblings and me, and allowed us to help her hang the ornaments, tinsel, and candy canes on the tree. Watching my parents decorate the inside and outside of our house with all kinds of Christmas decor, I couldn't wait for the day when I could step in and try it for myself. Little did I know at a young age, I would eventually take over ALL the Christmas decorating. Truth be told, I absolutely love it and begin counting down as soon as the new year starts. You must be rolling your eyes by now.

One of the elements that makes the whole decorating process so much fun is being able to change the setup annually. An example of this is: experimenting with new color schemes in different rooms of the house, designating new spots for the tree, and buying additional pieces to decorate with both inside and out. Oh! I can't forget to mention the playing and listening of classic holiday songs in the midst of all the decorating. "It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas" by Perry Como is my first song of the season, and rightly so. Then there is "White Christmas" by Bing Crosby. Who doesn't dream of having a white Christmas?

Growing up in South Carolina, winter seemed almost nonexistent. The coldness was relevant, but no where near the temperatures I now experience in Missouri. All South Carolina winters lacked the one component which made it winter: snow. Yes, snow was not something you could expect to have during the winter months; especially not on Christmas. Since my family and I moved out to Missouri, a little over seven year ago, snow always puts in an appearance; and the possibility of a "white Christmas" is now probable. I got to experience it for the first time four years ago. The best way I can describe my reaction is to compare it to the ending scene of "White Christmas" when the background is lifted on stage to unveil the snowy scene outside and the excited gasps and looks of astonishment on everyone's face. Here's the picture I took that Christmas morning.

I love Christmas and the wonderful feeling it puts into the air. I love Christmas because it reminds me of my childhood. I love Christmas and all it represents. These are the reasons why I decorate early.

Enjoy and thanks for reading! :)

xoxo