I look forward to all sorts of food! But one I’ve already enjoyed is hot spiced Gluhwein (glow wine). Yum!

I’m most looking forward to spending time with extended family members I don’t get to see very often. Well, that and finding gifts for my nieces and nephews. I still need to find out what my brother’s kids want, though.

Good luck with your deadlines.

I am one of those silly people who start gathering things for Christmas presents in May. ugh I know. I still end up rushing for stuff at the last moment – and worse, I’m the one woman who didn’t get the “Loves to shop, shop, shop shopping gene.” I do enjoy one evening out with hubby and one Saturday afternoon Christmas girls out (but mostly for the lunch) with my sister, daughters, and mom.

The kahlua gets made starting this weekend. I’m not making candy this year.

The tree will get put up a week or so after Christmas (a compromise between us.) We traditionally stay home for Christmas and open the doors to who ever wants to come, I love to cook. BTW dinner is around 4pm. Door’s open.

On the early Christmas push by radio (and tv) this year. The NAB (National Association of Broadcasters) and state associations put out commentary about two months ago urging radio stations to begin their holiday programming early enlight of the economic turn down. Personally I don’t know if that is good or bad. It’s good to encourage the economy, and bad to send people in to an emotional down ward spiral so early and for an extended period. Please give to your local shelters and emergency food pantries if you can.

Blessings, Rachel

Toni — I have tree envy. Would love to see pics!

I used to be the same way about the Christmas tree, Sylvia. In fact, we had a live tree, usually 10′ tall, every year. And as big around as possible–I usually got a mini scaffold set up so I could move around the top without having to climb up and down. And I put upwards of 1000 ornaments and bows on it.

It was always a beautiful tree. Two years ago, I nearly fell, twice, off the highest rung of a ladder, and I started thinking, hmmmm…. holidays with a broken arm or leg… not so fun. Plus my kids are grown, so it’ll be a much smaller tree.

You’re right about spending money. We don’t have much, but it’s what the economy needs. Well that and dumping those bloody golden parachutes. *grin*

Jen — You’re right, it’s too damn hot. And earthquakes, too. Have you been feeling those?

Rocki — I am avoiding holiday music, when I can. I can’t start listening to those too early or they lose their impact for me. *g* I’m really looking forward to your goal keeping tips! I’m thinking the holidays are on our minds because of the upheaval in the world. Makes us all want to close ranks and be with the people we love the most.

Tiffany — I’m jealous of you being done with your shopping already.

Natalie – Yay!! Another holiday lover! I’m starting to think I should try holding out, too, instead of jumping the gun. But it’s so hard to wait.

Jane – green bean casserole is my mom’s favorite, too! And lucky you to have two Thanksgivings.