It’s that time of year again when all the holiday lights are twinkling at night as passerby gaze in awe. Coffee shops set up their special holiday drinks and deck their shops in white and red. Shopping malls and strip malls are cluttered with cars trying to find a space to park as masses of people try to get in their last minute gifts.

I always look forward to the holidays. It’s just that kid in me that still wants to hold on to that holiday spirit. But this year may quite possibly be the one year when Christmas will come and go in the blink of an eye, unnoticed. I just don’t feel in the spirit this year. December has been a busy month for us with birthdays and holiday parties and Christmas gifts. It’s burnt a hole in our pockets. Chris is stressed about his amount of work, yet the lack of savings we have. There’s nothing like stressing over money to put out the holiday cheers. Bahumbug.

We thought of getting a christmas tree this year because Naomi would be old enough this year to enjoy one, but the idea of spending upwards of 100+ just on a tree and decorations for only a few days completely wiped out any idea of a christmas tree this year. I get that. But being practical during the holidays really takes away from the Christmas spirit.

Spirit, spirit, spirit. I can’t describe Christmas better than using the word “spirit” to encompass all that it means to me. Most everything is defined by feelings for me. And when those feelings aren’t there, well, they just aren’t there.

This Christmas, Chris will be working from the eve (my most favorite holiday of all) all through new years.  Bahumbug. He has had a whole week off for Thanksgiving, and a week off prior to his stretch of work. But the holidays just won’t be the same without him. In fact, he’s been really busy with work even when he’s not working and when he’s  hanging out with family or friends, he feels stressed that he didn’t get anything done.  Bahumbug.

At least Chris will be coming home to have dinner on Christmas. We will celebrate it with my family that day.