Happy Christmas

Dave and I have celebrated "Christmas in July" ever since our first summer together in our tiny little apartment. Back in "those days" we lived on one very small salary and I went to college. In December we were lucky to have $20 to spend on Christmas for each other. (Although we don't spend a whole heck of a lot more than that now either, but mostly because we use the thrift store heavily now.) By the time July rolled around we ready for a little treat.

And so, our Christmas in July was born!
Jack is totally into it.
Does he look excited yet?
How about now? LOL
My present...the most awesome Halloween fabric ever. (And it is getting hard to find.)
The tree this year is a big ficus that was sent to us at my grandfather's funeral. I plopped every single vintage millinery fruit I own on it.
And a toadstool or two too.

In previous years the trees have included paper drink parasols, summery stickers on pretty cardstock hung with ribbons, a bird themed tree, etc.

Want to start a Christmas in July tradition? A few ideas:
All but one of Jack's gifts are from the thrifts/garage sales. I always buy toys I know he will like when I see them and keep them in a special place. Aside from a special Lego toy we bought him I have all of $10 invested in his presents. It needn't cost a lot if you plan ahead a little. (Goodwill is excellent for Target salvage toys, but don't overlook things like craigslist either.)

Break out the Christmas music!

If you have a tabletop sized Christmas tree that works well, or do like we did this year and use a houseplant. (Coincidentally our very first Christmas in July tree was a ficus also.) You can find all kinds of summery decorations from flowers to plastic bugs at dollar stores (or if you are like me in your own closet). Don't forget a strand of lights.

Jack was curious about the Santa aspect, I simply told him this is a family day and the presents are from mommy and daddy.

Have a turkey in the freezer from a winter time sale? Make a special meal.

Never have enough money/canned goods/new pajamas/etc in December to make the kind of charitable contribution you'd really like to? Do it now.

Always talking about working for a charity near the holidays but never find the time? Life is certainly slower right now...

Happy Christmas in July! :-)