It's Me, Sara Louise

I’m no stranger to countdowns. Being someone governed by lists and calendars, most of my life is spent in some sort of a countdown, marking off intervals of time until an event occurs. Some being tortuous affairs. When the Boyfriend moved back to Le Petit Village in May, my life was one big horrible countdown; the countdown until July when I would visit him, 56 days. The countdown until I handed in my notice at work, 8 days. The countdown until the Boyfriend visited me, 38 days. The countdown until I moved to Le Petit Village, 27 days.

This was a slow, miserable period, going to sleep each night mentally crossing off days and calculating time. Not a fun countdown.

But a Christmas countdown! This is a countdown full of gingerbread and sugarplums, fairy lights and carols. It’s true, it’s the most wonderful time of the year, and it’s my favorite!

My list of things to do before the holidays has been made, the Christmas cards have been addressed, and Christmas candy recipe chosen. And this weekend, the pièce de résistance… the Christmas tree. How I love a Christmas tree! Funny thing, especially since I come from a Mother to whom a tree is not obligatory. It’s clear the Christmas gene may skip a generation.

But this year, the Christmas tree has me stumped. Since we are spending Christmas in Auvergne with French Mommy and French Nana, a real tree is out. Even though the Boyfriend has kindly offered to chop one down in the forest. Although I have a feeling that has more to do with him demonstrating his manliness than Christmas cheer. So an artificial tree will be purchased. And that’s ok. There has been a lot of progress in the world of artificial trees. But since we don’t have room for a big tree, a small one is required. But a small green fake tree isn’t invoking the Christmas spirit within me.

And I’m beginning to think wacky thoughts.

Thoughts of pink and white trees.

Lots of white lights and silver bells to offset our crazy spiral staircase.

But will a white or pink Christmas tree be enough to fill the house with Christmasness?

My first Christmas in Le Petit Village, should I buck tradition and let my wacky thoughts take over or should it be a traditional green Christmas tree for me?

What do you think?

5 days to make a decision.

And don’t forget what Buddy the Elf says… The best way to spread Christmas cheer, is by singing loud for all to here!