Rainbows End Christmas Tree

Believe it or not I've cut back on much of the fanfare I do for the holidays both at work and at home.

I've not thrown in the towel yet because Christmas is my favorite time of the year.

I'm just taking a realistic look at what I think I can and can not do with everything that's happened to me over the last few months.

That said, I'm still pushing too hard. I pulled a near all-nighter Monday and DID pull an all-nighter Tuesday.

I can hardly keep my eyes open, am typing crazy things at work but must stay awake a little while longer.

I need to have the immediate house straightened, food for Christmas Eve, my music in order...I don't have all the gifts I want yet.....some will have to wait until I can finish making them....and my Christmas letter is not complete BUT I am still sending it out. People will have to realize why it's late and be satisfied with that fact.

I hope I don't totally ruin Christmas Eve and Christmas for me by being passed out, too tired or worn down.

One of my accomplishments includes ditching the tree we've had the last few years --a fake tree where 1/2 the lights don't work anymore--and finding the perfect live tree.

I enjoy having a live Christmas tree each year.

This year, I found the perfect tree to honor Mom.

The name of it is 'The Rainbows End' and it is about 13 inches tall. It's perfect. I fell in love with it the minute I laid eyes on it.

I envisioned where to put it even before I found it and it is magnificent.

It will be my shrine to Mom. I have Evelyn's ornament, a few other special ornaments, and that's it. But, it's exquisite!

I've been successful at decorating the living room and dining room and that's about it.

The house is still in chaos but I can't get on myself as I used to.....I WILL eventually get my act together and bring everything in my life together in peace and harmony.

But more importantly, I will not let my favorite time of the year just sneak by without me enjoying at least a few holiday carols, being surrounded by decorations, baking my favorite mincemeat cookies, pizzelles and butterballs and spending quality time with family and friends!