To decorate or not to decorate?

It may only be the first week of November, but it is crazy to think that the holidays are right around the corner. I know there is a lot of controversy considering when it is appropriate to start decorating for Christmas and playing those holiday songs. I think I’ve always had a healthy amount of Christmas spirit, but even more so these days.

Last Christmas was a magical one in my home. Being due in late December, I was blasting Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas Is You,” hoping I would have my baby in time for the holidays.

We were lucky enough to experience a Christmas miracle when my son arrived on December 23. Although we spent a few days in the hospital, we were released on Christmas Day.

I will never forget spending our first evening at home watching old holiday movies. The lights from the tree kept the room aglow while we fell asleep in the living room as a family of three – my husband and I on the couch with my son in a bassinet beside us.

It is bittersweet that we’re approaching his first birthday already, but I think this will make the holiday season even more special. So why not spread the joy a little early?

Don’t get me wrong, I love Thanksgiving. In fact, my husband and I have hosted his side of the family for a number of years. We do the traditional turkey and dressing, sit around the table, pray first and pass the potatoes dinner.

We always took the day before to deep clean the house, pack up the fall décor and set up the Christmas tree. This year I am contemplating thoughts of when, if and how much to decorate. With a small child who can pull himself up on the coffee table and swipe at things well above his head, I’m fearful of toppling trees and scattered ornaments.

While my inner Cindy Lou Who would set up the tree tomorrow, the practical mom in me is very hesitant. I have a feeling my rambunctious 10-month-old will make our cat look like a saint when it comes to abusing the holiday décor.

Putting up the tree in our small house is difficult enough on a regular year, but with the addition of baby toys and accessories littering the living room, space is a definite concern. By next Christmas, our home addition will be finished and decorating for Christmas will hopefully be much more manageable. In the meantime, we will be experimenting somewhat with the whole process.

So to answer the question of when it is acceptable to start celebrating the holiday, I say: Whenever the spirit moves you! Never mind what any holiday Grinch has to say on the matter.