Oh Christmas Tree

We are a little late to the Christmas festivities this year - the kids and I returned home after spending three months in South Africa.

we generally get into our Christmas mode around December first, but this year have obviously been a little out of wack.

Jet lag is pure evil - it has hit me hard - way harder then the kids - I prefer it that way but it makes it a little harder to get motivated.

We are finally completely unpacked - everything has found their place, the last laundry is done and put away - so we were ready to get our Christmas on.

We started a tradition way back in Germany - hot chocolate and donuts is the way to go while transforming the common areas of the house into a Christmas wonderland.

We have one tree - and it is a kid tree - I have long since put all the glass balls away and over the years gathered and accumulated, and even made some kid friendly decorations. It makes it more fun, less stressful - and well I don't have to hover.

We generally don't go way out - most of our stuff is homemade - collected at Christmas markets in Germany, bought at hobby lobby three days before Christmas (60% off thank you) and I normally raid the Target aisles after Christmas.

I love the homey and down to earth feel - like people live here.

The kids love love love Christmas and setting up and decorating the tree is always a major it.

The production line runs smoother and smoother each year as they get older. It makes it so easy and more enjoyable.