For the first few years that AJ and I were married, November 1 was a special day to me. Not only did 100.3 WNIC start playing Christmas music, but I also strong-armed AJ into helping put the Christmas decorations up. We were decorated for Christmas for nearly two full months. Carter (our only little one at the time) was in the spirit too and really enjoyed putting ornaments on the lowest two feet of the tree. He did not, however, like the answer he got when he asked how many more days until Christmas.  ** Oh well **

This year, we are changing things up for a few reasons. The first reason is that my hubby (I like to call him Scrooge around this time of the year) has refused to put up any Christmas decorations himself for the past few years, with the exception of the tree – and only a week or two after Thanksgiving, leaving me (and the kids) with the decoration duty. The second reason is that we have been missing a great opportunity to give thanks during the month of November to all of the blessings that we have in our lives. This is something that AJ and I talk about often – our blessings.  In the face of our many struggles, we still feel that we are blessed in many ways, whether it be from the crazy things our kids say and do, the freedoms that we enjoy as Americans or our continued support from friends and family. We still see the gifts that we are abundantly receiving in so many different ways – and most importantly, we want our kids to see it, and recognize it, too.

So, this year, we (I) put up the tree, but its a Thanksgiving Tree. Throughout the month, each of us will write something that we are thankful for each day (the daily thing may get old quick, but the intent is there, right?) This bare little tree –  the Charlie Brown tree, as AJ calls it – will be filled with things that all 5 of us are thankful for, each one different, each one special. I am really excited to see how it looks on Thanksgiving Day and will definitely post an update. Honestly though, I am most looking forward to reading them all again next year, noting the changes and the many likely continued things that we are thankful for. Even though we have only started it this year, I am intent on making this a family tradition that will help us keep our focus on the GREAT things in our lives.

Do you have any unique family traditions during this time of year?