Christmas Traditions

Things are starting to get verrrrrrrry merry around these parts.  From James' decked out room to the front of the house to our new cozy basement winter wonderland, it seems that the Mangiaracina's are ready for Santa's arrival.  It all started with our visit to the Christmas tree lot.  We have been going to the same place since we moved here (Trader Joe's parking lot!) and kept up with the tradition - including our pho meal afterwards. :)

I love how James looks so exhausted in that last photo - like he was the one that hauled the tree in the house!  After about a week of letting the branches settle (trip to NY got in the way), we got to trimming it last night. We both grew up in houses that had the "tacky tree".  You know the one.  Colored lights.  Random ornaments.  No theme.  And we LOVE carrying that tradition on.  

Some of our tree favorites include this guy we bought when we were dating...

... James' first ornament...

... an oldie, but goodie from Ed's younger days...

... and a new favorite.

This is the first year we put the tree in the basement, but I think it was a wise move.  It is so cozy down there now that it is finished and with the fireplace, it is the perfect setting for the tree.

We did manage to make sure that the main floor is festive despite the deletion of the tree.

There are still a few things to partake in to complete the holiday traditions.  Cookie making ~ Gingerbread house decorating ~ Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer watching.  I can tell you that I'm sure between now and Christmas morning we will watch "Elmo Saves Christmas" another 117 times, but hey, it's the holidays!