funny thing about Christmas preps

It's true that most people are not ready to hear Christmas music in stores in November or buy Christmas wrapping in October... But when December rolls around, all you hear are comments like "Done your Christmas shopping yet? "  When was that supposed to happen???

More important then the shopping, for me, is the family Christmas card. For years, we would make a big do of taking our family photo. I would usually have to nag and threaten everyone that they had to be here, dressed well and be happy about it. this is the normal order of things.

I would set up the camera on the tripod, have the studio lights on the stands. Look in the viewfinder gather everyone, set up the photo I would say " Leave room for me right here" then, look in the viewfinder again, set the self timer, cock the shutter and....run in and count down.  My hair would usually look out of place and I would have a frozen look on my face but, I had captured the family and that is what was important.

We sent out all kinds of cards ove the years.  Christmas cards with a long text written by hand in each one.   or stick a photo of the family with a photocopied newsletter accompanying it.  or a family photo and a personal note. The point was to keep in touch with friends we don't see that often anymore and certainly with family that we weren't going to visit that year. 

I was looking for a formula that would be informative and at the same time fun and light to read. I also like a challenge. I like to come up with a new pose or decor or something different every year.   We've done some pretty good ones over the years. Sometimes all dressed up somtimes casual.

But three years ago, we found our groove.  and now, for our fourth year we are now sending out our signature "Magazine Style" Christmas card and everyone loves it. there is just enough family events and just enough photos to keep everyone in the know. People call to ask if it;s in the mail yet. Lol...

I will post those here after I have this new one sent off. I certainly don't want to reveal this year's card here and spoil the surprise.  It will be going out in the next few days. Thanks to the whole family's efforts. Ithink it looks great !

As far as the shopping goes, I prefer to collect things throughout the year. That way, by December most of what I thought of is already here. 

Baking and cooking are in the planning, we've decorated yesterday and Christmas is on it's merry way...

Have a good pre-Christmas season everyone.