Most Wonderful & Busy Season

Happy Wednesday Everybody,

Sorry it's taken me forever to update (December is half gone already!)

I promise you, I haven't been sitting around twiddling my thumbs. I've actually been really busy. Yesterday I finally finished my Christmas shopping. I even made a To-Do list yesterday and put "Make To-Do List" as one of the items--partially because I've been meaning to make one, and partially to have something to cross off right away.

As you can see, we finally got the tree decorated. It's so pretty! Offspring got excited about putting the tinsel on. It's always fun to get out the Christmas stuff and see things we haven't seen in a year. Unfortunately, my computer refuses to upload this picture the right way. I had flipped it so that it was vertical, but then Blogger wouldn't upload it.*Sigh*. Anyway, I promise, in real life it's NOT sideways.

There's two particular ornaments on the tree that have a special meaning to me. One is a turkey that represents my maternal grandfather (who died in 2004). Every Thanksgiving we would have what's called "The Turkey Contest". Contestants would try to tell the best or worst joke and win a prize (those who weren't competing were the judges). The person who won was called "The Turkey" for that year. The prize was always some form of turkey in honor of Thanksgiving--things like Turkey figurines, puppets, all kinds of funny stuff. My grandfather won often. So the turkey reminds me of him.

Of course, like last year (when I got this ornament) I had to put Monroe on the tree to watch over me and my family all through the Christmas Season! It's even more special this year given that his and Sasha's story has a contract! I took the picture from the side. This year Monroe is facing out more rather than in profile. As majestic as always, though.

A new addition to my mantel is surrounded by our lighted garland. It's a snow globe with a plaque on it (can't really see the plaque very well in the picture) but it's from the NWHRWA in honor of my first sale. Isn't it nice? It plays Ride Of The Valkyries.

I've got to finish up critiquing the last 10 pages I have left for my wonderful Critique Partner, finish writing one of my WIP, plus there is gift wrapping, shipping, and mailing envelopes left on my To Do List.

Like I said, I'm keeping busy!

How have you been celebrating the season?

Have A Whimsical Wednesday!