Christmas is coming!

I am starting to see signs of Christmas in stores when I go out. This makes me happy

I am going to start making a list of things I want for Christmas.... and while thinking about making a list, it made me wonder if anyone else makes a list?!

What's funny is a store called The Christmas Attic, near my house, is currently displaying Halloween decos and merchandise.

I don't really make a wishlist for Christmas, no. I never really did when I was younger either. I just give my parents a few ideas of what I want. Even thinking of those few ideas is hard sometimes, and they usually just end up getting my clothes (booooooo) and other things they think I'd like.

I always write wishlists, otherwise Santa won't know what to get me.

I know I want a new Digital Camera!!! Mine sucks!

Santa is going to be so confused this year. I'm used to leaving milk and cookies (stfu, yes, I still do it. It's a tradition!) but in England? Apparently they leave mince pies and sherry. But whatevs. I'll do it my way and force the kids to follow.

And on the topic of wishlists, I've always made one. I won't be this year, since my parents are just sending over a few little gifts, due to ridiculous shipping and customs charges. I WANT to still make a list, but I know due to being alone over here, it'll be completely disappointing to compare my ideal list of gifts to what I get, lol.

I used to make lists. After a while (and moving several times) I got tired of having numerous little things, so I usually instead ask for one really nice thing, if for anything at all. I love the Christmas spirit of generosity, but at the same time if I don't feel I need anything I won't ask. I'm one of those timid-modest types, I am uncomfortable asking for stuff I feel I don't really need and couldn't get on my own. But I do consider Christmas to be my once yearly "I could really use that nice ________" if I want it .

I get a couple of what my mom considers "nice gifts" every year. For example, a digital camera would be a nice gift. And then I also add a bunch of things that I need to my list. Like last year I got pots and pans, and a rug for my bathroom etc, and Boyd (the hubby) got shoes and clothes. I also have to add little things to my list, cause that what my sisters and I exchange. Such as earings and cool socks as an example. So this list goes to my mom every year.

Then there is a list that Boyd and I exchange for each other, but this year I think we are just going to buy ourselves a nice tv for ourselves. I think our tv in the living room is 12 years old. lol

I exchange gifts every year with my immediate family: Hubby, Mom, sister Stacie and her husband, my sister Chelsea and my Stepdad. This is also the 2nd year I'll buy a gift for my baby niece Chloe. Then I buy a gift for my Dad/Stepmom. I dont have to give my dad a list, he just gives me cash, which is always nice.

I love going Christmas shopping, I am usually done shopping before anyone in my family. I only wish I had more money at Christmas to spend cause, I see things I'd love to buy for my family that I often can't afford. Then there is the whole Christmas spirit thing. Holidays are always a happy time for me, and I love putting up a Christmas tree. I like looking at Christmas lights and seeing all the pretty holiday decorations. It is also the time of year to be thankful for what you have and to remember those who have not. I was thinking of volunteering this year somewhere for Christmas to help make a difference in someone's life. Not sure how to go about that, but Im going to look into it!