[graciegirl]

Every year we discuss this on this forum.

I know that so called wholesale stores are ahead in seasons because of the "premise" of resale. So they will have Garden Urns and stuff for the yard in January and other seasonal stuff way ahead too; Halloween, Valentines etc, etc.

Vendors sell most holiday things for delivery to retailers way ahead of season and usually it isn't stored. It is the way it has been for a long time. When we were very young we put money in a Christmas fund so we had that little extra for a very special time of the year for our family and I would start buying things ahead to ease the budget. For some gifts and decorations aren't part of Christmas but they are part of the joy for us and I do not feel apologetic at all. For some they ONLY give to charity and help the poor. It is all good.

Many of us know that if we see something at Sam's or Costco that is seasonal, buy it now, because they do not restock once the stock is gone.

For me, Christmas is such a joyful happy time, because we have worked to make it so for our family and still do. Our first Christmas with children we were far from home and we knew that we had to make up for the family gatherings so we started a bunch of fun and happy traditions of our own, which except for the elves who came to live behind the washer and dryer on Thanksgiving day...we still continue. It is special and for us lasts for a month before and for ten days afterward.

When I have to face something difficult and ouchy, I bring up memories of Christmas to soothe and calm me.

I have found that Christmas is celebrated differently in every household I have known.For some it is and has always been a big deal, and for others not so much. I love Christmas and don't mind happening on the joy of it even far ahead.

I hope that I can wish you all...a Merry Christmas.