When do you put your decorations up?

I love Christmas, it's one of my favourite times of the year. [clap]

I like to be really organised and have everYthing ready so there is no stress. I have already written my cards and bought many of my gifts[msnwink]

We like to have a large real tree in the hall and then smaller ones some real some artifical in other reception rooms. I just love the smell of a real tree[msnwink]

I now can't wait to put up my decorations, so what date do you all put your decorations up and get your tree (if you have a real one)[msnwink]

[Kazzie]

My Daughter has her Birthday on 6th December so I usually wait until that is over before I start to put up any decorations.

Karen

[Macka]

First weekend in December.

Wooo Hooo, love ChrimblyChristmas[msnsmile2]

We have three trees a big 'un and a couple of smaller ones.

We're going red and gold this year. Mrs Macka is fantastic at dressing the tree.[msnsmile2][msnsmile2]

I like traditional colours too, red, green and gold for us this year[clap][clap]

[Macka]

We should post pictures of our trees![msnsmile2]

[luckylady]

I love Christmas, I can't wait to put the tree up.
The sooner the better anytime after a 7th December

http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/Luckylady/20051121114222_trees2.gif

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Macka
We should post pictures of our trees![msnsmile2]
[/quote]

What a good idea[msnwink][msnwink]

[eagleydo]

1st December for us. First lot goes up on this day and if it is a weekday the rest go up at the weekend. Big child, can't wait. Use to have a real tree but three years ago i swapped this for huge fibre optic.(Cats kept climbing up the real tree and knocking it over, miss the lovely smell though)Unbeknown to me my local council ran a competition last year and one of my neighbours(no idea who) entered my house and I won a prize. Received a cheque in the post and I promptly spent it on more decs.

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by eagleydo
1st December for us. First lot goes up on this day and if it is a weekday the rest go up at the weekend. Big child, can't wait. Use to have a real tree but three years ago i swapped this for huge fibre optic.(Cats kept climbing up the real tree and knocking it over, miss the lovely smell though)Unbeknown to me my local council ran a competition last year and one of my neighbours(no idea who) entered my house and I won a prize. Received a cheque in the post and I promptly spent it on more decs.
[/quote]

How fantastic[clap][clap][clap]

[stabard]

As my brothers birthday is the 15th December my mum always put the tree up then. I now do the same.

I like Bronze and Gold for my tree with lots of lights outside the house.

I have been told that the lights at our Florida community gates have already gone up so may have to get the lovely MC to put the tree up in the house soon [msnsmile2]

[fiona]

1st Sunday of December I get the tree out, but I already have the candles on the windowsill, I am going to dig out the electric ones tonight. Will have 2 houses to decorate this year as off to Florida!!

[chrisflowers]

As soon as we return from Chicago at the begining of December. Having previously bought new decorations in Walmart in Orlando.
I have installed a 110v supply with extension cables brought over from the USA for the front of the house, and am always on the lookout for some interesting new additions like the ones currently on sale in Big Lots (OBT).

[Newhomebuyer]

When we are in Florida, we love to compare all the wonderful trees which you see out there.
The one outside AK is unusual with all the carved wooden animals. I also like the Wilderness Lodge Tree and of course the one in the is quite spectacular middle of the Grand Floridian.
So many of the resorts have really unusual themed trees.
The one in Celebration looks so pretty with the background of the lake but I thought it was so funny seeing it last year with a live alligator swimming almost underneath it
I have a large christmas arrangement rather than a tree at the villa.

[Aiminghigh]

Oooh..I love Christmas too!
By this time, I've normally done all the shopping and am ready to decorate at the beginning of December! Although I am behind with the shopping this year due to external pressures[msnscared], there are certain things I will not compromise on. Yesterday, I set the kitchen up for my daughters with lots of card-making goodies and they glued and glittered to their hearts' contents whilst listening to a Christmas CD.
We usually have several trees[msnembarrased]including a real one and as our house is very old, we tend to keep decorations in a traditional style, and have at least something festive in every room!
When my 17 y/o was little, I made a huge Advent calendar with 24 pockets and this comes out each year. Buying gifts for this for 3 children is pretty onerous, but I suppose I enjoy the pleasure it gives them. The pockets are all different sizes and the sort of things I put in are Christmas socks, Christmas choc coins, Christmas underwear, Christmas stationery , mini torches etc.(I must be mad!)
We also do lots of Christmas themed baking .Over the years, I have tried to develop various traditions which we do each year as a family.

Writing this has made me feel all "Christmasy"!

[Paula D-S]

I'll be putting our tree up the weekend after next. I can't wait, having a little one who believes just adds to the pleasure. My eldest daughter is nine and when I ask her to write her letter to Santa she has started looking at me like I'm soft.
I usually do Christmas Dinner for all my family which I love to do. I love setting the table the night before, my Mum has just returned from Florida and brought me home a lovely Gold table runner so I am am sticking the the red and gold theme.
Our tree goes in the hall and I will have small ones in the other two receptions. I would love to decorate the outside but my hubby is sooooooooo slow with jobs I would probaly be waiting till next June for the switch on. I am putting a tree up the the front garden this year.
Oh and I love driving the children around to see decorated houses, there are some magnificent ones in Liverpool, one guy does up his home and opens it up for the public to come in, he doesn't charge but if you want you can leave a donation for the Liverpool Blind Center.
Which reminds me I must order my meat from the butcher.

[LiesaAnna]

sorry but i cant be asked!!! i dont want to put a tree up this year too many small fingers touching and wanting to pull it down!! i will put twinkley things all over the ceiling, and doors but no tree, my sitting room isnt very big, maybe next year will be different cos Russ is moving out soon, and i will get the "dining" room back!!! which will give more space for the little peeps to play in!!

[Macka]

"if you want you can leave a donation for the Liverpool Blind Center.
Which reminds me I must order my meat from the butcher."

Okay Paula you got me there....[msnscared]

[Fourdents]

Will you be having a Christmas ANORAK Macka ! LOL

Oh I am glad to see I am not the only Christmas nut around, this tread has made me feel even more festive!! Can't wait to get started[msnwink][msnwink]

[Macka]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Fourdents
Will you be having a Christmas ANORAK Macka ! LOL


[/quote]

Linda, I'm an Anorak for life, not just for Christmas.[msnsmile2]

[Cruella DeVilla]

St Andrews Day for us. Real tree, normally decorated with lilac and silver. Got to be white lights. Wreath on the door, garlands up the bannister, tasteful ornaments dotted around the house and doorstep! Lasy year the villas was brand new and it was our first Xmas in it so we put the tree up the day after we arrived as we had to go buy it, ended up with a nine footer. I got to buy all my decorations from scratch and that was really fun so I have a mixed bunch of colours. Have a picture somewhere. I will definately put one of this years on as I agree with the others its a nice idea!

Christmas makes me childlike and I absolutely love it. My Xmas presents are bought, wrapped and delivered and the majority of my cards are too! I have my menus planned my cocktails recipies ready, posh glasses bought, nibbles organised, oh I can't wait.

Christmas markets start next weekend, oh boy that is fun, wrapped up against the cold, Gluwein and all the tasty German snacks to munch on! That is a brilliant day out, so much so we have to do it on more than one ocassions, this year we plan to do Dussedlorf, Koln, our local one and one in Holland which is in caves and really beautiful.

The men in our family as all bah humbag, commercial cr*p and all that but they don't get a look in!

[mizzy]

my christmas decorations usually go up first sunday in december

the holly/flowers/mistletoe etc gets delivered on the 23rd from my florist friend
shes lovely because she will stay and help me tie it to the staircase and always arranges things beautifully

i like a really natural country look with only white lights and lots of candles

we usually go to the local village's victorian christmas market and they have an outdoor nativity for the children to watch and lovely carol singers

my children have an abundance of innocence and it always amazes me how the little things give them the most pleasure

Mizzy

[Ray&Sarah]

If it were up to Ray they would go up on Christmas Eve and down again on Boxing Day.[msnoo]

Must admit have done very little Christmas shopping and definately no wrapping. Am off to the Bluewater Shopping Center next weekend, hope to get most of it done then.[msnsmile2]

If not Ray says that he will only be shopping over the internet or people can have vouchers.

[Paula D-S]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Macka
"if you want you can leave a donation for the Liverpool Blind Center.
Which reminds me I must order my meat from the butcher."

Okay Paula you got me there....[msnscared]
[/quote]

Trust you, I meant the whole topic of Christmas reminds me I should order my meat

Looks like we are Florida nuts and Christmas nuts too[clap][clap][clap][clap]

[Macka]

I'm just plain nuts.[xx(]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Macka
I'm just plain nuts.[xx(]
[/quote]

WE KNOW!!!!!!![msnwink][msnwink][msnwink]

[Paula D-S]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Macka
I'm just plain nuts.[xx(]
[/quote]

I usual disagree with Men for the sake of it but I won't this time.

[Chloe]

I tend to be a bit like Ray ( see above ). When the children where young I LOVED Christmas, but although this is going to make me sound like a real misery guts, I must say I detest it now. For a start I loathe Winter, I find it gets more and more ridiculous each year with regards to the first signs of Christmas appearing in the shops, it just gets earlier and earlier. The children are grown up now and I personally find it nothing less than a headache, I would like to go to sleep anytime now and not wake up until Jan.2.
Having said all that...... although it does nothing for me, I think it is possibly the best time of year if you have young children. I always look forward very much to Easter and Spring. Chloe ( I'm not THAT bad really)

[Jules]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Chloe
I tend to be a bit like Ray ( see above ). When the children where young I LOVED Christmas, but although this is going to make me sound like a real misery guts, I must say I detest it now. For a start I loathe Winter, I find it gets more and more ridiculous each year with regards to the first signs of Christmas appearing in the shops, it just gets earlier and earlier. The children are grown up now and I personally find it nothing less than a headache, I would like to go to sleep anytime now and not wake up until Jan.2.
Having said all that...... although it does nothing for me, I think it is possibly the best time of year if you have young children. I always look forward very much to Easter and Spring. Chloe ( I'm not THAT bad really)
[/quote]

Chloe we must be twins separated at birth. I couldn't have put it better myself. I think all the commercial trappings of Christmas should be for children. I am quite happy to spend time with the family but detest shopping in crowded town centers and shopping malls for presents that nobody really wants and that I could buy for half the price come January. This year I have made a stand and as we have no young children in the family I am not buying any christmas presents other than for my children and then just token gifts. The whole family are invited round to our house on Christmas Eve and Boxing Day (Christmas Day is for us) when I will quite happily keep them wined and dined for long as they want to stay. When I eventually have grandchildren I will spoil them rotten and make a big thing of christmas for them but until then the tree goes up the weekend before Christmas and comes down as soon as possible. I truly believe we should be allowed to hibernate from November 1st until April 5th (my birthday) unless we are planning a trip to Florida! Bah Humbug!

Chloe and Jules so sorry you don't love Christmas[msnsad]

Jules gift tokens are banned in our family[msnwink] Why? Bcause no thought went into buying them and there is no fun opening them[msnwink]

I have always loved Christmas even before I had children, now I have 5 aged from 4 up to 21 I love it even more, its a traditional family Christmas and I do it all every year[clap][clap]

[eagleydo]

I'm with you Julie, I love Christmas and always intend to. Nice to have some colour and fun in life, winter can be very dreary.

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by eagleydo
I'm with you Julie, I love Christmas and always intend to. Nice to have some colour and fun in life, winter can be very dreary.
[/quote]

I agree with you, life is too short and it is not a dress rehearsal[msnwink]

[LiesaAnna]

we have spent 2 December the 1st's in florida now and i find it dreary here, i am lucky i still have ayoungish daughter left at home and the grandchildren, but you know for once it would be nice to get invited around to theirs, so i wouldnt have to cook and clean and clean and cook! so boring, have spent the last 26 years doing almost the same thing!! i have even said i fancy staying in florida for christmas but Steve wont have it ..................yet[msnwink] he wavered on the idea but then said no he would miss the kids and grandkids!! i know i would but just for once i would like to do something different! i have no enthusiasm this year for putting the decs up, and none whatsoever at putting the tree up!!! maybe cos theres not much room![msncry]

[Madabouttigger]

I love Christmas and started Christmas shopping in March when we were in Florida. Next week I am on holiday again and will get all my present shopping finished and start getting all the decorations together to go up the 1st weekend in December. We usually go to Manchester to visit the Christmas Markets and just love the feel of Christmas and wintertime. And once we get Christmas out of the way the shops start putting up the summer holiday clothes that make me feel that my next Florida trip isn't that far away.

Diane.[xmas2]

Dianne, I love the Christmas markets in Manchester too they remind me of the German ones I used to visit when I was flying, all that lovely Mulled Wine and lovely Christmas atmosphere[xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2]

[Chloe]

I have bought my presents and cards, but really what I would like to do, is fly off to Florida for Christmas and RELAX in a warmer climate, the problem is that my daughters and son won't leave their girl/boyfriends, which I perfectly understand, and likewise, I won't leave them, so I can't go to Florida. Maybe one day, Chloe

[Madabouttigger]

Maybe we should do as Macka suggest and post pictures of our Christamas decs and we can all award points for the best dressed or themed tree.....

or am I turning into a Christmas nut too?[msnscared][xmas1]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Madabouttigger
Maybe we should do as Macka suggest and post pictures of our Christamas decs and we can all award points for the best dressed or themed tree.....

or am I turning into a Christmas nut too?[msnscared][xmas1]
[/quote]

Yes lets!!![xmas1][xmas1][xmas1][xmas1][xmas1]

[Cruella DeVilla]

I was disappointed with the Christmas market in Manchester last year, mind you I am used to the real thing, so I suppose I am spoilt! I was there day before yesterday and I think it is up already, is it around King or West King Street?

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Cruella DeVilla
I was disappointed with the Christmas market in Manchester last year, mind you I am used to the real thing, so I suppose I am spoilt! I was there day before yesterday and I think it is up already, is it around King or West King Street?
[/quote]

They are at St Annes Square and Albert Square...

http://www.manchester.gov.uk/markets/specialist/christmas/



[xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2]

[Ray&Sarah]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Jules
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Chloe
I tend to be a bit like Ray ( see above ). When the children where young I LOVED Christmas, but although this is going to make me sound like a real misery guts, I must say I detest it now. For a start I loathe Winter, I find it gets more and more ridiculous each year with regards to the first signs of Christmas appearing in the shops, it just gets earlier and earlier. The children are grown up now and I personally find it nothing less than a headache, I would like to go to sleep anytime now and not wake up until Jan.2.
Having said all that...... although it does nothing for me, I think it is possibly the best time of year if you have young children. I always look forward very much to Easter and Spring. Chloe ( I'm not THAT bad really)
[/quote]

Thats exactly how Ray feels, our lads are 16 & almost 14 and all the magic has gone.[msncry][msnsmile]

Chloe we must be twins separated at birth. I couldn't have put it better myself. I think all the commercial trappings of Christmas should be for children. I am quite happy to spend time with the family but detest shopping in crowded town centers and shopping malls for presents that nobody really wants and that I could buy for half the price come January. This year I have made a stand and as we have no young children in the family I am not buying any christmas presents other than for my children and then just token gifts. The whole family are invited round to our house on Christmas Eve and Boxing Day (Christmas Day is for us) when I will quite happily keep them wined and dined for long as they want to stay. When I eventually have grandchildren I will spoil them rotten and make a big thing of christmas for them but until then the tree goes up the weekend before Christmas and comes down as soon as possible. I truly believe we should be allowed to hibernate from November 1st until April 5th (my birthday) unless we are planning a trip to Florida! Bah Humbug!
[/quote]

[Aiminghigh]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Madabouttigger
Maybe we should do as Macka suggest and post pictures of our Christamas decs and we can all award points for the best dressed or themed tree.....

or am I turning into a Christmas nut too?[msnscared][xmas1]
[/quote]

Sounds like fun![xmas2]

[Macka]

Ok that's setteled then, Christmas tree show, commences 1st. December onwards, be there or be square.

On a more serious note, the best thing for me about Christmas, is that people are so much more friendly towards each other. Folk can do kind things for each other that they might not ordinarily do, a friend of mine gives up his Christmas day to help out at an old folks home, stuff like that. People have something to say to each other instead of walking on by. It's only a few days a year I know, but it shows we can do it if we want to and that we've got it in us.[^]

Now get to work on your trees, I intend to crush you all in this competition.

Oh this will be so much fun[clap][clap][clap]

[Macka]

Julie,

We'll wait until Dec 1st. and start a new thread for it eh?

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Macka
Julie,

We'll wait until Dec 1st. and start a new thread for it eh?
[/quote]

Oh Yes !!![clap][clap][clap]

[steph_goodrum]

"When my 17 y/o was little, I made a huge Advent calendar with 24 pockets and this comes out each year. Buying gifts for this for 3 children is pretty onerous, but I suppose I enjoy the pleasure it gives them. The pockets are all different sizes and the sort of things I put in are Christmas socks, Christmas choc coins, Christmas underwear, Christmas stationery , mini torches etc.(I must be mad!)
We also do lots of Christmas themed baking .Over the years, I have tried to develop various traditions which we do each year as a family. "


I have always done the same with my daughter and she hates to break the "traditions", she will be flying to Boston on 14th December and insists on taking her advent calendar that I made over with her as it wont be the same without it.

We'll be making our Christmas cards when she comes from Uni at the weekend and we have to have our "Christmas dinner" on 11th Dec before she leaves.

Another tradition that is that from her first Christmas I have always left a really nice book on her pillow (when she was younger it was story anthology type books with nice illustrations, that were more than just a one time read and as she was interested in different things (whales and dolphins etc) the books have reflected that, as I thought it was a nice way to wind down after the excitement of the day and we've sat snuggled up on the bed talking about the day and her presents, rather than just "off to bed now", she has told me that it doesnt matter how it gets there she hopes there's a book on her pillow at bedtime:) So it looks like I'll have to ask Santa to make a pit stop.

Since hubby is also a "bah humbug" type now that there aren't thesame games and toys to investigate as she's grown, I'll just have to go and play with my 2 great nieces toys (even though one of them is only 3 weeks old).

[Fletch]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Jules
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Chloe
I tend to be a bit like Ray ( see above ). When the children where young I LOVED Christmas, but although this is going to make me sound like a real misery guts, I must say I detest it now. For a start I loathe Winter, I find it gets more and more ridiculous each year with regards to the first signs of Christmas appearing in the shops, it just gets earlier and earlier. The children are grown up now and I personally find it nothing less than a headache, I would like to go to sleep anytime now and not wake up until Jan.2.
Having said all that...... although it does nothing for me, I think it is possibly the best time of year if you have young children. I always look forward very much to Easter and Spring. Chloe ( I'm not THAT bad really)
[/quote]

Chloe we must be twins separated at birth. I couldn't have put it better myself. I think all the commercial trappings of Christmas should be for children. I am quite happy to spend time with the family but detest shopping in crowded town centers and shopping malls for presents that nobody really wants and that I could buy for half the price come January. This year I have made a stand and as we have no young children in the family I am not buying any christmas presents other than for my children and then just token gifts. The whole family are invited round to our house on Christmas Eve and Boxing Day (Christmas Day is for us) when I will quite happily keep them wined and dined for long as they want to stay. When I eventually have grandchildren I will spoil them rotten and make a big thing of christmas for them but until then the tree goes up the weekend before Christmas and comes down as soon as possible. I truly believe we should be allowed to hibernate from November 1st until April 5th (my birthday) unless we are planning a trip to Florida! Bah Humbug!
[/quote]

Nice to hear I'm not the only one who is glad when Christmas is over. We're away on holiday until 16th December, so I'll probably put the tree up around the 19th or 20th. Cards and tree come down on 1st of January.

One thing I do enjoy about Christmas is going to my son's school Christmas Concert. We'll miss it this year, as we'll be away (not rubbing it in or anything [msnwink]!!) He is 9 and attend special needs school.
Last year his class sang "In the bleak Midwinter" (well the teachers and us parents sang it really, as most of the children in Andrew's class can't speak). The children were all dressed up in woolly hats and scarves and loved being the centre of attention, while the teachers floated round the room carrying large fluorescent cardboard snowflakes (UV light made it look quite spectacular).

Another class sang the Twelve Days of Christmas. Apparently they started learning the words in July, but it paid off because they were word perfect! The joy in the faces of those children when they heard the applause reduced me to tears.

Here is last years tree.....................




http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/Mach 2/20051122202936_XmasTree.jpg

What do you think[msnwink]

[Paula D-S]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Mach 2
Here is last years tree.....................




http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/Mach 2/20051122202936_XmasTree.jpg

What do you think[msnwink]
[/quote]

Fantastic Julie[clap][clap][clap]

[eastcoastbranch]

Gorgeous tree Julie and your hall is stunning.
Hannah.

[Mags]

That tree is fabulous[clap]Julie and your staircase and landing are fantastic.

My son and daughter are grown up now and will both be in their own homes this Xmas but we now put up more lights than we ever did when they were little. We have outside all lit up and we too have a big tree and I only have gold on it. As I do silk flower arranging I always make a new table centre and wreath for the front door. We were only just discussing when we will put up the outside lights this evening and think we will do it next weekend.

Off shopping to the Metro Centre tomorrow with a friend.

[Paula D-S]

Please post outside decorations too.

OMG Its not really my hall!!!! I wish it was!!!! I was joking hence the [msnwink]

Sorry all, had you going though[msnwink][clap]

[sheenallan]

Nice one Julie,when i looked at the picture I thought we must be hob-nobbing with royalty[:O]!!!.
Sheena

[Paula D-S]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Mach 2
OMG Its not really my hall!!!! I wish it was!!!! I was joking hence the [msnwink]

Sorry all, had you going though[msnwink][clap]
[/quote]

Were is this picture from Julie, at first I thought OMG what a mansion you had me going[msnwink]


[xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2]

[LiesaAnna]

[/quote]

Nice to hear I'm not the only one who is glad when Christmas is over. We're away on holiday until 16th December, so I'll probably put the tree up around the 19th or 20th. Cards and tree come down on 1st of January.

One thing I do enjoy about Christmas is going to my son's school Christmas Concert. We'll miss it this year, as we'll be away (not rubbing it in or anything [msnwink]!!) He is 9 and attend special needs school.
Last year his class sang "In the bleak Midwinter" (well the teachers and us parents sang it really, as most of the children in Andrew's class can't speak). The children were all dressed up in woolly hats and scarves and loved being the centre of attention, while the teachers floated round the room carrying large fluorescent cardboard snowflakes (UV light made it look quite spectacular).

Another class sang the Twelve Days of Christmas. Apparently they started learning the words in July, but it paid off because they were word perfect! The joy in the faces of those children when they heard the applause reduced me to tears.

[/quote]

oh that must've been wonderful Fletch!!! i would've loved to have seen that, bet there wasnt a dry eye in the house!!

its about the only thing i look forward to now is watching the kids concerts and shows!!
oh i wonder if my grandson will be doing a show of some sort ! he only started school this september!
i'm starting to think maybe i should put a tree up? but theres no room[msncry]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by caitlin
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Mach 2
OMG Its not really my hall!!!! I wish it was!!!! I was joking hence the [msnwink]

Sorry all, had you going though[msnwink][clap]
[/quote]

Were is this picture from Julie, at first I thought OMG what a mansion you had me going[msnwink]


[xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2]

[/quote]

Sorry I had you all going, it was a google search and the picture came up[xmas1][xmas1]

[LiesaAnna]

but does anyone know why they used christmas trees???
St. Boniface Story

hy do we have a decorated Christmas Tree? In the 7th century a monk from Crediton, Devonshire, went to Germany to teach the Word of God. He did many good works there, and spent much time in Thuringia, an area which was to become the cradle of the Christmas Decoration Industry.

Legend has it that he used the triangular shape of the Fir Tree to describe the Holy Trinity of God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. The converted people began to revere the Fir tree as God's Tree, as they had previously revered the Oak. By the 12th century it was being hung, upside-down, from ceilings at Christmastime in Central Europe, as a symbol of Christianity.

The first decorated tree was at Riga in Latvia, in 1510. In the early 16th century, Martin Luther is said to have decorated a small Christmas Tree with candles, to show his children how the stars twinkled through the dark night.


Christmas Markets

In the mid 16th century, Christmas markets were set up in German towns, to provide everything from gifts, food and more practical things such as a knife grinder to sharpen the knife to carve the Christmas Goose! At these fairs, bakers made shaped gingerbreads and wax ornaments for people to buy as souvenirs of the fair, and take home to hang on their Christmas Trees.

The best record we have is that of a visitor to Strasbourg in 1601. He records a tree decorated with "wafers and golden sugar-twists (Barleysugar) and paper flowers of all colours". The early trees were biblically symbolic of the Paradise Tree in the Garden of Eden. The many food items were symbols of Plenty, the flowers, originally only red (for Knowledge) and White (for Innocence).

Tinsel

Tinsel was invented in Germany around 1610. At that time real silver was used, and machines were invented which pulled the silver out into the wafer thin strips for tinsel. Silver was durable, but tarnished quickly, especially with candlelight. Attempts were made to use a mixture of lead and tin, but this was heavy and tended to break under its own weight so was not so practical. So silver was used for tinsel right up to the mid-20th century
The First English Trees

The Christmas Tree first came to England with the Georgian Kings who came from Germany. At this time also, German Merchants living in England decorated their homes with a Christmas Tree. The British public were not fond of the German Monarchy, so did not copy the fashions at Court, which is why the Christmas Tree did not establish in Britain at that time. A few families did have Christmas trees however, probably more from the influence of their German neighbours than from the Royal Court.



The decorations were Tinsels, silver wire ornaments, candles and small beads. All these had been manufactured in Germany and East Europe since the 17th century. The custom was to have several small trees on tables, one for each member of the family, with that persons gifts stacked on the table under the tree.

The Victorian and Albert Tree


In 1846, the popular Royals, Queen Victoria and her German Prince, Albert, were illustrated in the Illustrated London News. They were standing with their children around a Christmas Tree. Unlike the previous Royal family, Victoria was very popular with her subjects, and what was done at Court immediately became fashionable - not only in Britain, but with fashion-conscious East Coast American Society. The English Christmas Tree had arrived!

Decorations were still of a 'home-made' variety. Young Ladies spent hours at Christmas Crafts, quilling snowflakes and stars, sewing little pouches for secret gifts and paper baskets with sugared almonds in them. Small bead decorations, fine drawn out silver tinsel came from Germany together with beautiful Angels to sit at the top of the tree. Candles were often placed into wooden hoops for safety.

Mid-Victorian Tree

In 1850's Lauscha began to produce fancy shaped glass bead garlands for the trees, and short garlands made from necklace 'bugles' and bead

[Mags]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Mach 2
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by caitlin
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Mach 2
OMG Its not really my hall!!!! I wish it was!!!! I was joking hence the [msnwink]

Sorry all, had you going though[msnwink][clap]
[/quote]

Were is this picture from Julie, at first I thought OMG what a mansion you had me going[msnwink]


[xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2]

[/quote]

Sorry I had you all going, it was a google search and the picture came up[xmas1][xmas1]
[/quote]

LOL Julie
It is probably a hotel.
You will have to go some now to impress us [msnsmile2]

[Ray&Sarah]

Oh and I was so jealos of that hall too Julie. You don't half tell em, LOL! [msnwink]:D

[luckylady]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:[i]
On a more serious note, the best thing for me about Christmas, is that people are so much more friendly towards each other. Folk can do kind things for each other that they might not ordinarily do, .[^]
[/quote]

Thats very true Paul,but its the saddest part of the year for so many
I was a Samaritan counselor for many years.
This may be very hard to believe, but when so many are having a great time,with family and friends.
Thousands are sad, miserable,lonely and homeless,also Christmas,and New Year time, is some when couples realise their marriages are not working out
January and February are the busiest months foe suicides,cruelty seperationsand divorcé papers being issued
Sorry to put a dampener on this thread, doesn't do any harm. for just a minute to remember the less fortunate
[msnwink][msnwink]

[pieman790]

We normally put the tree up in the first week of December and take it down just after new year. We are going to the Florida this Christmas and it will be the first time we have been away at this time of year. Not sure if we will bother putting the tree up at home as Cathy does not want to leave the lights on a timer switch whilst we are away.
We will put the tree up in the Villa as soon as we get there.
On the subject of lights there is a house down our street that is already lit up with hundreds of lights, a santa on the roof as well as a large christmas tree and i thought we were early putting it up during the first week of December.

[Aiminghigh]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Mach 2
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by caitlin

Originally posted by Mach 2
OMG Its not really my hall!!!! I wish it was!!!! I was joking hence the [msnwink]

Sorry all, had you going though[msnwink][clap]


Were is this picture from Julie, at first I thought OMG what a mansion you had me going[msnwink]


[xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2]


Sorry I had you all going, it was a google search and the picture came up[xmas1][xmas1]
[/quote]


Are you sure Julie-I nearly pulled out of the competition before it had started!!!![msnwink]

[LiesaAnna]

ok i put mine up!!

http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/LiesaAnna/20051123104531_BCB89A6E-CD94-B5D5-D2CBC2B00AE298B2.jpg


http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/LiesaAnna/20051123104557_BCB70069-E9C5-88B9-C121A136F02905A5.jpg

all bought in florida!!
dolls house trees!! (not so sure about mine, Laurens looks better, but theyre very fiddley!)

Ah Liesa they are so sweet, how big are the dolls houses?[xmas2][xmas2]

[sheenallan]

just put mine up aint they good

http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/sheenallan/2005112313140_MH-gold-room-xmas1.gif
Sheena

[Macka]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by sheenallan
just put mine up aint they good

http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/sheenallan/2005112313140_MH-gold-room-xmas1.gif
Sheena
[/quote]

Nice pad, bit like my front room.

Sheena, we've got the same avatar, I'll change mine.[msnwink]

[Macka]

http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/macka/2005101081046_pussinboots.jpg

'scuse me, just posting me Avatar.

ta.[msnwink]

[sheenallan]

Macka,
You didn't have to change it looked the same but mine say's " MEOW "
Sheena

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by sheenallan
just put mine up aint they good

http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/sheenallan/2005112313140_MH-gold-room-xmas1.gif
Sheena
[/quote]

Very nice Sheena[msnwink][msnwink]

[Macka]

You don't want to be associated with me Sheena, trust me.[laugh]

I like Puss in boots anyway, I originally wanted to put a Santa hat on him but lost interest, I'll have another go in time for Christmas.

I also feel that I should now portray this softer, cuddlier image after posting a shot of me as Herman Himmler. Know what I mean?

[LiesaAnna]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by luckylady
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:[i]
On a more serious note, the best thing for me about Christmas, is that people are so much more friendly towards each other. Folk can do kind things for each other that they might not ordinarily do, .[^]
[/quote]

Thats very true Paul,but its the saddest part of the year for so many
I was a Samaritan counselor for many years.
This may be very hard to believe, but when so many are having a great time,with family and friends.
Thousands are sad, miserable,lonely and homeless,also Christmas,and New Year time, is some when couples realise their marriages are not working out
January and February are the busiest months foe suicides,cruelty seperationsand divorcé papers being issued
Sorry to put a dampener on this thread, doesn't do any harm. for just a minute to remember the less fortunate
[msnwink][msnwink]
[/quote]

yes i think we should give a thought to all these, [grouphug][grouphug][grouphug]


Julie its 1 1/2th scale, i love it, but it dont half cost!![msneek]

[Paula D-S]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Macka
You don't want to be associated with me Sheena, trust me.[laugh]

I like Puss in boots anyway, I originally wanted to put a Santa hat on him but lost interest, I'll have another go in time for Christmas.

I also feel that I should now portray this softer, cuddlier image after posting a shot of me as Herman Himmler. Know what I mean?
[/quote]

I prefer Himmler rather than that cat

[Macka]

Oh Paula, look at his little faaace.

[sheenallan]

Oh Paula,
You have surprised me i would have thought with a user name like yours you would have been a cat lover!![msnsad]
Sheena

[Ray&Sarah]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by LiesaAnna
ok i put mine up!!

http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/LiesaAnna/20051123104531_BCB89A6E-CD94-B5D5-D2CBC2B00AE298B2.jpg


http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/LiesaAnna/20051123104557_BCB70069-E9C5-88B9-C121A136F02905A5.jpg

all bought in florida!!
dolls house trees!! (not so sure about mine, Laurens looks better, but theyre very fiddley!)
[/quote]


Gosh Liesa your dolls house will look more christmasy than my house if my hubby doesn't cheer up a bit and get into the spirit of things rather than being a bit "bah humbug"[msnwink][msnsmile2].

[Paula D-S]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by sheenallan
Oh Paula,
You have surprised me i would have thought with a user name like yours you would have been a cat lover!![msnsad]
Sheena
[/quote]

Sorry,

My user name is my daughters name, I couldn't use Paula

[Aiminghigh]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by sheenallan
just put mine up aint they good

http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/sheenallan/2005112313140_MH-gold-room-xmas1.gif
Sheena
[/quote]

LOL!

[Mags]

Liesa is that inside of the dolls house?

So anymore of last years photos[msnwink]

I have started wrapping my pressies, want them all done by Dec 1st[msnwink]

[Madabouttigger]

I think there is a bit of cheating going on here! Anyone got a tree up yet? Still too early for me, possibly in next 2 weeks though, will post pics.[msnwink]

[Aiminghigh]

Here's this year's exterior shot.Haven'tgot my trees up inside yet.

http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/aiminghigh/2005112418836_strip.jpg

Fantastic Carole[msnwink][msnwink][clap][clap]

[Ray&Sarah]

Wow that must have taken ages to put up all those decs.[msnoo][msnwink]:D

[Aiminghigh]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Ray&Sarah
Wow that must have taken ages to put up all those decs.[msnoo][msnwink]:D
[/quote]

We leave them up all year[msnwink]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Aiminghigh
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Ray&Sarah
Wow that must have taken ages to put up all those decs.[msnoo][msnwink]:D
[/quote]

We leave them up all year[msnwink]
[/quote]

LOL!!![clap][clap][clap]

[Macka]

[laugh][laugh][laugh][laugh][laugh]

[LiesaAnna]

carole thats a lovely photo!! we have competitions in Brighton for the best dressed street in brighton and surrounding areas! (not me personally) the amount of money people spend on these things is crazy!!! i see the fella on DSS down the road has his house covered!!! (obviously paid too much)[msnwink] we normally have in peacehaven a brilliant street full, will post some piccies when theyre up, all in aid of charity!!(lovely people)
also another particular one 5 minutes from us very pretty!! (just dont know how people afford it! its not cheap)

[Ray&Sarah]

We have a house round the corner from us that decorates his house and garden and collects for charity every year. It takes him the whole of November to put them up and then the whole of January to take them down again. It is impressive though and he makes a fair bit for charity.

[luckylady]

I love decorating our house at Christmas,this year will be the third time I haven't in the UK I don't see the point.We leave for Florida on the 12th Dec don't return until 12th January.
When the decorations start appearing on the houses around me I feel so guilty my home looks so lifeless and unloved I can't wait to get away
How sad is that [msncry][msncry][msncry]

[LiesaAnna]

i forgot to ask Steve to get the decorations out from the loft before he had his operation![msncry] and the lads dont like to go in the loft! nor do they know where they are, Steve puts them away each year and knows just where to find them![msncry] oh well maybe next weekend he can supervise !!

[Cruella DeVilla]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Mags
Liesa is that inside of the dolls house?
[/quote]

No it's the roof.........Sorry Jan could not resist being cheeky here, I am in high spirts looking at all the nice Xmas pictures![}:)]

[LiesaAnna]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Mags
Liesa is that inside of the dolls house?
[/quote]

sorry Mags
yes it is inside my dolls house, but have used both our trees to see what theyre like!!!

Putting my decorations up this weekend as I have Friday and Monday off work, won't get the real trees yet though as they will drop too soon[msnwink]

[Aiminghigh]

Ok. No tree up as yet, but here's my over indulgent Advent Calendar
[msnembarrased]

(For the children, of course[msneek])

http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/aiminghigh/20051130194611_tiny.jpg

[ravtino]

[clap]My tree went up last Sunday and all cards and pressies done, not long to florida now[clap][xmas1][xmas1][xmas1]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Aiminghigh
Ok. No tree up as yet, but here's my over indulgent Advent Calendar
[msnembarrased]

(For the children, of course[msneek])

http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/aiminghigh/20051130194611_tiny.jpg
[/quote]

Wonderful Carole[clap][clap]

[Cruella DeVilla]

1st December and all that's left to do is post the cards and get hubby his main pressies but I am doing that in Florida, everything else is bought, wrapped, delivered and paid for (Don't like nasty credit card bills in January)! I hate the madness that is shopping in December but come the sales I find the spirit again. I buy all my cards and wrapping ready for the next year. I like good quality or handmade cards and find you get a good deal on them.(I made a few of my own this year but it is time consuming).

[LiesaAnna]

oh CDV, you buy him a main pressie? hes got you! that is enough surely?[msnwink][msnwink] and there are other pressies you can give that mean sooooooooooooooooo much more!![msnwink][msnwink][msnwink][msnwink]

[Aiminghigh]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Mach 2
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Aiminghigh
Ok. No tree up as yet, but here's my over indulgent Advent Calendar
[msnembarrased]

(For the children, of course[msneek])

http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/aiminghigh/20051130194611_tiny.jpg
[/quote]

Wonderful Carole[clap][clap]
[/quote]

Thanks Julie,
Unfortunately, a couple of nasty argumentative "incidents" in the car on the way to school this morning have already resulted in threats to tear it down and throw it down the cellar steps!!!!

Oh well....all in the Christmas Spirit[msnscared]

[LiesaAnna]

no carole, its lovely!!!! leave it alone!! (i take it your talking about the advent calender)?

its a fab idea!

[Cruella DeVilla]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by LiesaAnna
msnwink] and there are other pressies you can give that mean sooooooooooooooooo much more!![msnwink][msnwink][msnwink][msnwink]
[/quote]

I suppose it is Xmas;)

[Ray&Sarah]

Wow CDV you are organised, I haven't even bought my cards yet.[msnoo] Have only done about a third of my shopping and definately no wrapping yet. Having said that my youngest son has done his Christmas shopping and wrapped the pressies and my eldest is off late night shopping tonight. Maybe I could get them to buy each others pressies from hubby and I and then wrap them.[msnwink]:D

[Madabouttigger]

Just finished all my shopping - and its a wonderful feeling. Went to the trafford centre yesterday and got the lot done. Will be wrapping them this afternoon.

Diane.

[LiesaAnna]

i cant believe how organized you all are!!! i have so much to buy and so many things to do!! havent written any cards yet, but have bought them! and definately havent wrapped anything yet!!!

[mizzy]

well i'm allmost done and dusted

thank the lord for internet shopping

i just need two more items to be delivered from amazon and once there wrapped thats me finished with the presents

i have placed my food order online with tesco and telephoned the butcher, ordered my door wreath and christmas flowers so i just have to sit back and relax until the doorbell rings then i can ask darling husband to put it all away

i am gonna nip out later and look for christmas garland for my fireplace i want one with little white lights that dont come with ugly green cord so i will probably drive the shop staff demented opening all the boxes
if i cant find a good fake garland my florist friend will have to sort me out with the real mccoy when she comes to do the staircase

Miz

Think I will start the decorations tomorrow[msnsmile]

[Paula D-S]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Mach 2
Think I will start the decorations tomorrow[msnsmile]
[/quote]

Me too,I've had a good spring clean today all ready now.
[xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2]

[LiesaAnna]

next week......................maybe?

[Ray&Sarah]

Christmas Eve.... maybe![msnwink]:D

[kitty]

Im all ready to put up the decorations today boxes all out of the attic,children waiting for dad to come home from work later to participate.I start shopping in july after my holidays are over so all done now apart from the fruit/veg etc,then xmas done i start finalising plans for our holiday.Thats my year sorted[msnsmile2]

[LiesaAnna]

just to good Kitty!! too good!

well i have found myself singing the christmassy songs!!![msneek] means i am almost there now!!!!!

I have made a start.......got the garland on the stair bannister with tiny white lights on..........got some little lights laying in the front lounge bay window.........the hand made advent calender is up and stuffed full of little goodies......I have decorated around the fireplace in the front lounge.........and the garlands are up in the family room and the den, also got an illuminated 'Merry Christmas' in the den[xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2]

[mizzy]

Julie

have you done it all by yourself or do you have someone to help?

i've got the kids den to decorate this year because we extended the house but i'm not sure what to put in it that i can trust the little horrors with

i have put in a fibre optic tree and a few cuddly christmas toys but not sure what else to put in
it does look a little bare any suggestions?

i managed to find a lovely garland for my fire yesterday it has lovely red berries and acorns it is very natural looking with lovely tiny white and berry red lights so i'm really pleased[msnsmile2]

i'm trying to keep myself occupied at the moment so i can stay away from the fridge i might go and write some christmas cards out

dont forget to post some pics when your all finished Julie

Mizzy

[Parrothead]

Normally we start thwe first week in December. This year, only the wreath on the door. Why? We will be in Florida for Xmas and will be doing the decorations at the house in Orlando instead. Down to Walmart and Home Depot on the 14th December get the lights and tree and decorations bought. Put them up on the 15th when son and girflriend arrive.
:)

We also have an inflatable tree for the pool:D

[LiesaAnna]

have a great time !

[Sally D]

I wish I could be all organised, so behind with it all[msnscared].

Don't know when I will finish shopping, tried today and came back with only 3 little things. Every year I say 'next year I'm going to be ready early'. Maybe next year.

[Ray&Sarah]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Sally D
I wish I could be all organised, so behind with it all[msnscared].

Don't know when I will finish shopping, tried today and came back with only 3 little things. Every year I say 'next year I'm going to be ready early'. Maybe next year.
[/quote]

I know that feelong Sally, went shopping yesterday and gave up, too many people and the queues at the tills were unbelieveable. Back to the internet, much better way to shop.[msnsmile2]

[sheenallan]

All shopping done, Decorations hopefully will go up Monday.
Sheena.

[amy]

arrived back from florida this morning, the tree is now up to try and lift the lowness of leaving our new home. the villa tree went up on thanksgiving[8D]

[LiesaAnna]

still couldnt bring myself to do it!!
this is a first!! perhaps its cos Steve hasnt got them out from the loft ......yet?(operation on arm last monday so cant get up the ladder)

[sheenallan]

I have made a start, tree up and one or two decs, hopefully will finish off tomorrow helped!! by my grandson.
Sheena

[Macka]

Sheena, that's an unusual name for a grandson.

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Macka
Sheena, that's an unusual name for a grandson.
[/quote]

LOL!!!![clap][clap][clap]

[Madabouttigger]

Christmas shopping finished and wrapped, decorations up, 1st lot of cards posted! Phew [msnwink]

[stabard]

Have not long been back from school where I have just finished putting up the Xmas Tree in the hall.

Think I will leave mine untill the weekend

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Madabouttigger
Christmas shopping finished and wrapped, decorations up, 1st lot of cards posted! Phew [msnwink]
[/quote]

Me too, it's a great feeling, just waiting to get the real trees, don't want them drooping too early[msnwink]

[Sharon G]

oh you are all so organised. Started my first shopping today and was mortified on the queues and so many people shopping on a TUESDAY!!!!!

Just listening live to Florida's Magic FM now playing continuous holiday music, very festive!!!!

My tree to go up next Sunday the 11th!! Comes down on the 12th night!![msnwink]

will post picture once up and running!![msnwink]

So many decorations are up, we put ours up at work already too!!!! Lots of houses looking very festive too[xmas1][xmas1][xmas1][xmas1]

[LiesaAnna]

ours are going to go up today! not gonna be much to write home about! just dont feel ready for christmas, it comes round too soon!

http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/LiesaAnna/200512773835_fiberoptictree.jpg

my new tree!

[Southsider]

I think I will do mine at the weekend, but wont be having a real tree anymore after our exerience a few years ago where a cat must have peed all over our tree before we bought it and I can tell you the smell in the sitting room was not a bit christmasy, we had to put it outside and bought an artifical one instead!!!:D

[LiesaAnna]

Tricia thats so funny!![laugh][laugh][laugh] [msnembarrased]maybe not!![msnwink]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by LiesaAnna
ours are going to go up today! not gonna be much to write home about! just dont feel ready for christmas, it comes round too soon!

http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/LiesaAnna/200512773835_fiberoptictree.jpg

my new tree!
[/quote]

Very trendy Liesa[msnwink]

[LiesaAnna]

yes very........apt![msnwink] mine is so very different from that!

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Southsider

I think I will do mine at the weekend, but wont be having a real tree anymore after our exerience a few years ago where a cat must have peed all over our tree before we bought it and I can tell you the smell in the sitting room was not a bit christmasy, we had to put it outside and bought an artifical one instead!!!:D
[/quote]

We have had this problem last few years so I am going round smelling all the trees to see if I can get one that smells nice[msnwink]

[LiesaAnna]

i love the smell of non weed on christmas trees[msnwink]

[Cruella DeVilla]

Can't wait to go to Home Depot and choose a big 9 footer tree which I need step ladders to decorate. (Will check for pee pee).Just have to think about where it is going to go as we have a huge banquet table in the place it was last year as we had just closed so had lots of space as all the furniture had not arrived. I want it in our formal room so you see it as soon as you walk in the door. We shall dedorate the outside of the house too like last year, it was really festive and I am still quite beside myself with excitment at the thought of rummaging through the 5 big storage boxes of stuff I bought last year, plus the two bags I sneaked in last month when I went shopping at the Loop.;)

[dawn]

When do you go CDV?
Our house here is looking very bare at the moment, and my youngest keeps asking when we are going to put the decorations up. Have told him we will do it in Florida, but he still seems confused[msnscared]
Have now done quite a lot of packing and hidden the presents in the cases. Still haven't sent any cards, must do that later. Can't wait to see my daughters face when we tell her she is going to Discovery Cove on her birthday (20th), and my son's when he has breakfast with Mickey for his birthday (23rd). Am making party bags for his party next week now - so much to do, so little time[msnwink]

[Cruella DeVilla]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by dawn
When do you go CDV?
Our house here is looking very bare at the moment, and my youngest keeps asking when we are going to put the decorations up. Have told him we will do it in Florida, but he still seems confused[msnscared]
Have now done quite a lot of packing and hidden the presents in the cases. Still haven't sent any cards, must do that later. Can't wait to see my daughters face when we tell her she is going to Discovery Cove on her birthday (20th), and my son's when he has breakfast with Mickey for his birthday (23rd). Am making party bags for his party next week now - so much to do, so little time[msnwink]
[/quote]


Oh Dawn that is sweet, how old are your children?

We fly out either next Wednesday or next Saturday work depending.

[Ray&Sarah]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by dawn
When do you go CDV?
Our house here is looking very bare at the moment, and my youngest keeps asking when we are going to put the decorations up. Have told him we will do it in Florida, but he still seems confused[msnscared]
Have now done quite a lot of packing and hidden the presents in the cases. Still haven't sent any cards, must do that later. Can't wait to see my daughters face when we tell her she is going to Discovery Cove on her birthday (20th), and my son's when he has breakfast with Mickey for his birthday (23rd). Am making party bags for his party next week now - so much to do, so little time[msnwink]
[/quote]

How lovely Dawn, they will love their surprises.[msnsmile2]

[LiesaAnna]

hope we get to see some photos CDV?

[dawn]

Danielle will be 11 on the 20th, and Sam 5 on the 23rd - I never was very good at timing[msnembarrased]

[LiesaAnna]

thats so lovely!!

[Cruella DeVilla]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by LiesaAnna
hope we get to see some photos CDV?
[/quote]

Might do[:P]

[Cruella DeVilla]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by dawn
Danielle will be 11 on the 20th, and Sam 5 on the 23rd - I never was very good at timing[msnembarrased]
[/quote]

Cool, my cousins are on the 22 and 26th and they hate it!

[LiesaAnna]

my grandchildren are the 27th and 31st of dec, best mates first grandchild 27th dec!!! another grandchild of mine jan 23rd and the other in sept! expensive business these kids!!!!

[Macka]

Right, here's our tree.





http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/macka/2005127171643_DSCN0043.jpg

[Southsider]

Its lovely Macka, well done[clap][clap][clap]

[kimwo]

What a lovely tree only putting up a small one as we are off to Florida [clap][clap][clap]

Kim

[Mags]

There are a lot of December birthdays.
My daughter Joanne is 21 today.[msnsmile2]

[Cruella DeVilla]

Paul, That is very nice, did you help put it up or was it the wifes handywork?

[Cruella DeVilla]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Mags
There are a lot of December birthdays.
My daughter Joanne is 21 today.[msnsmile2]
[/quote]

Mr CDV is 23 on Friday;);)

[caroline]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by dawn
Danielle will be 11 on the 20th, and Sam 5 on the 23rd - I never was very good at timing[msnembarrased]
[/quote]

My birthday is on the 19th Dec, my daughter Laura is on the 23rd Dec, then Dave is on the 27th Dec - so 3 birthdays and Christmas day within 9 days[msnscared] Declan was far more sensible he's the 4th April, so has most of his birthdays in Florida[^]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Macka
Right, here's our tree.





http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/macka/2005127171643_DSCN0043.jpg
[/quote]

Fantastic Paul[clap][clap][clap] Is it a real one?? Looks good what ever it is[xmas1][xmas1][xmas1]

[Paula D-S]

Paula your tree looks fab.
[xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2]

[LiesaAnna]

lovely tree paul, still didnt do mine[msneek] grandson was taken to hospital so other things on my mind
hes fine now so maybe tomorrow?

[caroline]

You have all shamed me into action, I now have all my decorations up (except the outside lights, will try and do them tonight) I've written all my cards, just have to post them, I've done all my prsent shopping except for hubby's birthday and Christmas presents - I'm really stuck on what to get him[msnscared] Oh and waiting for one last delivery from Amazon, I've even been onto Ocado and ordered a big shop for the 22nd December, Turkey is ordered, now I'm getting nervous because I must have forgotten something[msneek]

[Ray&Sarah]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by caroline
You have all shamed me into action, I now have all my decorations up (except the outside lights, will try and do them tonight) I've written all my cards, just have to post them, I've done all my prsent shopping except for hubby's birthday and Christmas presents - I'm really stuck on what to get him[msnscared] Oh and waiting for one last delivery from Amazon, I've even been onto Ocado and ordered a big shop for the 22nd December, Turkey is ordered, now I'm getting nervous because I must have forgotten something[msneek]
[/quote]

Now I feel that I really should get organised. [msnoo]:D

[Sharon G]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Macka
Right, here's our tree.





http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/macka/2005127171643_DSCN0043.jpg
[/quote]


Paul.......Very nice

Can you call round and put mine up!!!????

[LiesaAnna]

mine are up!!!! not as nice as previous years but i feel i have lost the will of christmas!!! most of the kids have grown up and left home so only steve russ and lauren here most of the time, terri always at her boyfriends
might put a photo on here tomrrow if you promise not to laugh?[msnwink]

[caroline]

I will if you will Liesa[msnsmile2][msnwink]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by LiesaAnna
mine are up!!!! not as nice as previous years but i feel i have lost the will of christmas!!! most of the kids have grown up and left home so only steve russ and lauren here most of the time, terri always at her boyfriends
might put a photo on here tomrrow if you promise not to laugh?[msnwink]
[/quote]

We won't laugh!!!! Get posting[msnwink]

[Macka]

CDV, yes it's entirely Mrs Macka's work.

Julie, it's not a real one, we can't have one now as Kitty McMacka has to climb them, she doesn't try to climb a fake one! (funny little scuzzball).

Come on you lot, let's be having your piccies posted!!

[Ray&Sarah]

GO on then Liesa, we love looking at other peoples piccies.[msnsmile2]

[LiesaAnna]

i am cross, i tested the lights before putting them on the tree and now its all dressed with about 500 lights on 2 strips, one has a dodgey wiring! and only works if you wiggle it!!! hubby gonna sort it out later but i would like to have a photo with all the lights working, for the affect!!
i will put one later[msnwink]

[Ray&Sarah]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by LiesaAnna
i am cross, i tested the lights before putting them on the tree and now its all dressed with about 500 lights on 2 strips, one has a dodgey wiring! and only works if you wiggle it!!! hubby gonna sort it out later but i would like to have a photo with all the lights working, for the affect!!
i will put one later[msnwink]
[/quote]

How frustrating. Hope your hubby can get it sorted Liesa, looking forward to seeing the pics.[msnsmile2]
Asked my hubby when can we put our decs up and he just snorted.[msneek][msnsmile2] Will have to work on him.:D

[Aiminghigh]

Ok, here's mine.


http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/aiminghigh/2005129162251_tree.jpg

This is one I made from twigs:- [msneek]


http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/aiminghigh/2005129162346_twig.jpg

I also usually have a large real tree, but this year I'm just not sure whether I've got the time[msnscared]

Carole

[Ray&Sarah]

They look lovely Carole.[msnsmile2]

Very pretty Carole[clap][clap][clap]

I am hoping to get my tree tomorrow so will post over the weekend but I took some at work today and will post later[msnwink]

[Ray&Sarah]

Have persuaded Ray to put up the decs tomorrow, catch him when he's tired and he just nods.:D

[luckylady]

I will post mine when I get to Florida[msnwink]

[Ray&Sarah]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by luckylady
I will post mine when I get to Florida[msnwink]
[/quote]

Will look forward to that then Barbara.[msnsmile]

[LiesaAnna]

http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/LiesaAnna/20051210111653_14619FEE-AF51-3B4F-26DB11D8EAA8BBB2.jpg
remember i said dont laugh, i so cant be asked this year and i think it shows!!!
maybe next years will be much better?

http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/LiesaAnna/20051210111739_1462B8A7-B714-4091-E9C7ADF8B0F90BCF.jpgThis is in The Lanes in Brighton

http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/LiesaAnna/20051210112020_1465E118-C68F-F1E2-22CFAA15787CCAA9.jpgthis is in Churchill Square shopping mall,

http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/LiesaAnna/20051210112247_146828F9-CD5B-0F07-ED71011EC2735876.jpgoooooops cutie sneaked in to say Hi![msnwink]

what is so annoying is there were over 500 small lights all working when tested before putting on, yet they never show up in daylight (and one transformer clapped out after decorated!!)
500 wouldve made it look so bright!!! sorry its not as nice as some but i have hade some gorgeous ones in the past, think i'm having a hard time with kids all growing up and leaving home!!!

maybe i'll take another when its darker![msnwink]

[Paula D-S]

Well done Leisa, little Bradley is so gorgeous isn't he.

I have spent 4 hours this afternoon just wrapping Christmas presents, although I have the same amount of presents for both my girls the presents for Eve who is 3 look sooooooooooo much more than I have for Caitlin who is 9. Everything Eve asked for comes in massive boxes while Caitlins are all in small boxes trying to resist the temptation to go out and buy Caitlin some more even though hers were far more expensive.

Christmas trees have been up since last Sunday so I am really getting into the spirit now all the shopping is almost done. Posted all my cards yesterday.

Bought the girls some lovely outfits for over the holiday, although Caitlin is so hard to buy for as she is very tall and very very slim. May take a trip into town this week to finish off.
[xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2]

[Ray&Sarah]

We have put our decs up today. New lights for outside, which look nice, maybe we will feel more Christmasy now.[msnsmile2]

[LiesaAnna]

still isnt working for me! its all because we keep thinking of this time last year we were you know where!
[msncry][msncry] and i know i would much rather be there forever then here!

[Ray&Sarah]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by LiesaAnna
still isnt working for me! its all because we keep thinking of this time last year we were you know where!
[msncry][msncry] and i know i would much rather be there forever then here!
[/quote]

I'm with you on that one Liesa, wish I was in the Sunshine State right now, its cold and foggy here.[msnsad]

My real tree is finally up, its a tree bought for the smell and not the shape[msnscared]

Its traditional is colour and style and very much a children tree[clap][clap][clap]



http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/Mach 2/20051211203527_DSCN3451.jpg

http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/Mach 2/20051211203834_DSCN3452.jpg

P.S Here is my little Topiary Tree for next to the front door

http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/Mach 2/20051211204251_P1010103.jpg

[wrpac00]

Done ours yesterday, hooray.

[Aiminghigh]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Mach 2
My real tree is finally up, its a tree bought for the smell and not the shape[msnscared]

Its traditional is colour and style and very much a children tree[clap][clap][clap]



http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/Mach 2/20051211203527_DSCN3451.jpg

http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/Mach 2/20051211203834_DSCN3452.jpg
[/quote]


Love it Julie[msnsmile]

[LiesaAnna]

lovely[clap][clap][clap][clap] so pretty my faourite trees Julie, the children ones!!! but mine arent bothered anymore, maybe get the grandchildren to decorate them next year???
its so lovely, i feel i can almost smell it now!!![msnwink]

Thanks Carole and Liesa[xmas1]

[Paula D-S]

Great tree Julie. I will takesome pics of ours tomorrow.
[xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2]

Thanks Paula, we have it in the hall downstairs and the smell when I came down this morning was wonderful[xmas1][xmas1]

[Macka]

Nice tree Julie[msnsmile2]

Nice baubles. Ahh I love Christmas.[xmas1]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Macka
Nice tree Julie[msnsmile2]

Nice baubles. Ahh I love Christmas.[xmas1]
[/quote]

Me too, the whole house looks very festive now, lights are up outside plus I put lights on a bush in the front garden and icicles all around the front door plus my Topiary tree next to the front door.

Inside we have an artifical tree in the lounge plus lots of garland, a real tree in the hall, plus a lit garland on the banister, then in the family room we have lights around the patio doors, garland and the christmas cards, then in the den we have a lit 'merry christmas' plus the advent calender more lit garland, lots of childrens christmas novelties, table centre piece on the dining table plus lots of festive candles and I keep playing lots of christmas tunes too!!![xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2]

Plus letters from Santa arrived in the post this morning[msnwink][msnwink]

[stabard]

Julie - your house sounds FABULOUS!!

We have put ours up this weekend. Did not do too much tho as we are off to Florida on Boxing day

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by stabard
Julie - your house sounds FABULOUS!!

We have put ours up this weekend. Did not do too much tho as we are off to Florida on Boxing day
[/quote]

Thanks Jan it does look very festive now[msnwink]

[Cruella DeVilla]

Oh I am beside myself now, roll on the weekend when Mr CDV can get up the laddders and start decorating the outside of the villa. Cruella is interiors only dahling;)

[LiesaAnna]

[laugh][laugh][laugh]
i was thinking of putting a tree in the other rooms, but cant be asked[msnwink] too much like hard work!!!![msnscared]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by LiesaAnna
[laugh][laugh][laugh]
i was thinking of putting a tree in the other ooms, but cant be asked[msnwink] too much like hard work!!!![msnscared]
[/quote]

Liesa that's not the spirit!! Think of the calories it would burn too[msnwink][msnwink]

[jovi]

Here is my tree, tryed to get the lights showing, flash was too bright and it didn't work:(

http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/jovi/20051212164639_1FDCDD94-B5B9-180F-D4028747F15CB757.jpg

[jovi]

tried taking one of outside, my trees didn't show up:( I have one by the front door and also trees around the fence lit up, when I took the photos none of them showed up!! So here is the one one of the front of the house, not very good, but you get the idea[V] Just need a wreath now:)

http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/jovi/20051212165647_1FE46A41-B1CE-17AF-8A49BF4374B9201C.jpg

[Paula D-S]

Great tree Vicky:D

[jovi]

Gee thanks Caitlin[:I]

[jovi]

I mean Paula[:O][msnscared][msnembarrased][msnwink]

Looks lovely Vicky[clap][clap][clap][clap]

[LiesaAnna]

very pretty!!!!

[Sharon G]

At last I,ve put our tree up today!! Looks lovely. Will try and find the camers later and put a picture on for you all!!

Julie, your tree is lovely and so is yours Liesa[clap][clap]

Vicky, I love the light colours on yours.

Mines gold and cream this year[msnsmile2]

[jovi]

We haven't long moved into a new house, magnolia walls and all that, so most of the house is in browns and creams, so the white/silvery clours work well, dining room is in reds and golds.

[Ray&Sarah]

Lovely trees Julie and Vicky.[msnsmile2]

[Macka]

Nice tree Vicky, I'll have a go at getting a photie of the outside of my house tonight. we've got a few twinklies up there too! Woo Hooo!

[Sharon G]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Macka
Nice tree Vicky, I'll have a go at getting a photie of the outside of my house tonight. we've got a few twinklies up there too! Woo Hooo!
[/quote]
....ooohhh yes please Macka,

Is it like santa's grotto????[msnwink][msnwink]

[Macka]

No Sharon, I wouldn't say that, but we do like a light or two. I do have to stop Mrs Macka from buying things for the front, she'd have them all you know, nodding lighted reindeer, blow up santa's on the roof etc. etc.[xmas2]

She's even got a lighted christmas tree in her car. (She's very big on Christmas.)

[Sharon G]

I think its lovely when people make the effort to decorate outside their houses.

We have some lights under the garage coving and then some white lights around our outside growing Christmas tree.

I live on a close and there's only about 4 of us this year, so far, have made the effort!![xmas1][xmas1][xmas1]

[Macka]

Well done Sharon,[clap]

let someone else be the Ebeneezer.

[LiesaAnna]

i would love to decorate the outside of my home, but funds wont allow this year!

[julieanne]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by LiesaAnna
i would love to decorate the outside of my home, but funds wont allow this year!
[/quote]


Don't have all that many decorations but I don't think time will allow me to even do these this year [msnsad]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by julieanne
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by LiesaAnna
i would love to decorate the outside of my home, but funds wont allow this year!
[/quote]


Don't have all that many decorations but I don't think time will allow me to even do these this year [msnsad]
[/quote]

Get down to B & Q they have loads of reductions and even pre decorated trees many half price[msnwink]

[LiesaAnna]

and Julie, how would i get them up?[msnwink] Steve just recovering from shoulder op, so maybe i will purchase ready for next year????(just got told off by physio for going back to work!!!

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by LiesaAnna
and Julie, how would i get them up?[msnwink] Steve just recovering from shoulder op, so maybe i will purchase ready for next year????(just got told off by physio for going back to work!!!
[/quote]

Get your children to give you a hand[msnwink]

[CERICROWLEY]

Hi Vicky

I downloaded your image and brightened it up a bit with my paintshop software. You can now see your house more clearly

http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/cericrowley/20051213132845_20051212165647_1FE46A41-B1CE-17AF-8A49BF4374B9201C.jpg

[jovi]

Thanks for that, I'll post pic of trees outside, could you see if you can do anything with that? Please.[:I]

[jovi]

Here it is:([:I][V]

http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/jovi/2005121315937_24A985A0-D67F-FAF7-245A929517C31BF8.jpg

[Sharon G]

Very nice Vicky, well done!![clap][clap]

The second picture is a bit dark but you can still see the tree[clap][clap]

I can't find my camera to take mine[msncry][msncry]

Liesa...shame you didn't live abit nearer....I bought extra lights for the outside this year forgetting I bought aload new in the January sale[msneek][msneek]....you could have had my spare ones gladly!!

[LiesaAnna]

Oh Sharon thankyou, but not to worry, i did have some window lights before but got fed up with them and then when you see what the others do in our road makes mine look rubbish, i did promise myself some new ones, so will buy some in the sales for next year, wont let the kids do any of it, not up ladders, if they fell i wouldnt forgive myself! now steve ........well thats another matter [msnwink]
(off on a moan now, the 2 or 3 big lots of decorated houses are with people unemployed, it makes my hubby mad!! theyre not cheap!!! but they have all the "fashionable decs" and lots of them!! i have put my lit santa in the window!![:P]) moan over!![xmas2]

[LiesaAnna]

http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/LiesaAnna/20051213154356_24C8A1FB-F484-C948-B768154FB90CF73D.jpg excuse the dirty window sill, the cat sits and knocks the window to be let in!!

http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/LiesaAnna/20051213154439_24C7448A-DE46-0F01-363E2B9305794D70.jpg dining room
these will do!

http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/LiesaAnna/2005121316234_24CA321D-C1F4-FC99-4B9C40E7C20CAE11.jpg
silly dangleys hanging from the ceiling!!! well theyre different![msnwink]

[CERICROWLEY]

Vicky

This is the best I can do though.

One hint I learnt of Snapper though is to turn your camera to a bright light first and half put your finger on the shutter to lock the aspect, then still with your finger on the shutter, turn and focus it on the picture you want to take, it doesn't then refocus and it comes out quite brighter. If you do that I will give it another go for you



http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/cericrowley/20051213161855_2005121315937_24A985A0-D67F-FAF7-245A929517C31BF8.jpg

[chrizzy100]

http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/chrizzy100/20051213164644_5541.jpg

Here is my Christmas tree...........it took ages to get all that snow on it.........[msnwink]

[julieanne]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by chrizzy100


http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/chrizzy100/20051213164644_5541.jpg

Here is my Christmas tree...........it took ages to get all that snow on it.........[msnwink]
[/quote]

Looks great Chrizzy - but it will look even better when you get the lights on [msnwink] [msnwink] so be sure to post another picture then [msnwink] [msnwink]

[chrizzy100]

I may put a few balls on it....but its 23 degrees out there.......I'm not moving from the house for the next 3 days...unless its to get wood for the fire........but I would love to light it up......a good idea if we are still here next year........[msnsmile2]

[LiesaAnna]

chrizzy its beautiful!!!!!!!

[chrizzy100]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by LiesaAnna
chrizzy its beautiful!!!!!!!
[/quote]

I love that tree.....its snowing now......and the garden looks pretty.....just the right kind of snow for Christmas day.....so fingers crossed it'll snow then........[msnsmile2]

[Carla]

We haven't done anything at all in our UK home yet, but here's our Florida home with the tree and the lights. [msnsmile2][msnsmile2][msnsmile2]

I love lights, and you can go completely over the top in Florida.[msnsmile2][msnsmile2][msnsmile2]

I can never get a good picture though, which is really annoying. Will have to send Snapper over to get some for me.[msnwink][msnwink][msnsmile2]

We've got 4 children and a baby staying in our home this Christmas, so we expanded our herd and added a few more lights for them (it really is for them, honest!!)[msnwink][msnwink]

We always do the decorations for our villa guests, but we never seem to put the same effort into decorating our home here.[msnsad][msnsad]

http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/Carla/20051213171710_camelottree.jpg

http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/Carla/20051213171738_camelotlights3.jpg

[Paula D-S]

WOW Carla your villa looks terrific[xmas1][xmas2][xmas1][xmas2]

[Carla]

Thanks very much Paula. We did this with the help of Rosie and Al, and then we all did 2 other homes as well in our cul-de-sac. We had fun, but it's definitely not a quick job.[msnsmile2][msnsmile2][msnsmile2]

[dawn]

Looks great Carla, you're guests will love it[msnsmile2]

[LiesaAnna]

carla, your home looks so pretty!!! well done on making it so lovely and festive!!!!!

[Macka]

Doh!

That makes mine look really pathetic now[msneek].

Well anyway.



http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/macka/20051213191719_smalllights.jpg

[Macka]

Can you see our puttytat under the window?

She's the one with the devil eyes.[msneek]

[chrizzy100]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Macka
Can you see our puttytat under the window?

She's the one with the devil eyes.[msneek]
[/quote]

Is it more common to do outside decks now.........??
We were the only people in our area with them 6 years ago.....

I like your house..it reminds me of our English home..........I loved that house.....[msnsmile2]

[Macka]

Yes Chrizzy, we've got a lovely deck in the back garden, they are very popular now.

(I've got two in the back garden actually, ordered too much decking.)[msnwink]

[Sharon G]

Carla, the outside of your villa looks terrific, well done[clap][clap]...who takes them down for you, your MC?

Macka, yours too looks great and I love the special effects with the "garden Cat"[msnwink][msnwink]

[LiesaAnna]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Macka
Yes Chrizzy, we've got a lovely deck in the back garden, they are very popular now.

(I've got two in the back garden actually, ordered too much decking.)[msnwink]
[/quote]

think she means outside decorations!![msnwink]

[Paula D-S]

Paul it doesn't look pathetic at all. Well done,not sure about the cat though it was giving me the evils.

[LiesaAnna]

Paul they look lovely!!! its a cool cat tho!!! [msnwink]

[sunseeker]

Macka,what did you do to your cat to make it's eyes light up like that? [msneek]

Dave

Carla, Camelot looks gorgeous[clap][clap]

Paul love your house too!!!! [xmas1][xmas1][xmas1]

[Snapper]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Carla
I can never get a good picture though, which is really annoying. Will have to send Snapper over to get some for me.[msnwink][msnwink][msnsmile2]
[/quote]
I think I'd be a big disappointment to you Carla (story of my life really!!) [msnsmile]
You're outside photo is wonderful.

I don't know if we could get a better one. If I could have found a flight we could have given it our best shot (pun intended!!) this coming weekend. [msncry]

Ho hum! Just have to put it in the diary for Christmas 2006. Ain't life such a chore at times. [msnwink]

[Carla]

Thanks very much folks.

My MC take them down for me Sharon.[msnsmile2][msnsmile2]

Kevin took that picture Steve. He took something like 25 and that was the best one. He's thinking of using an ordinary camera next year, rather than a digital, so that he will have complete control over the exposure etc.. It's all greek to me anyway. Stick it in your diary. See you in 2006.[msnsmile2][msnsmile2][msnsmile2]

[Cruella DeVilla]

My Neighbours have a massive blow up/lit up snowman, coloured lights, and a strand of tinsel hanging from each coach light, one gold, one silver. Scares me looking out the window! Will have to wait til Sunday to do ours as I need to get Mr CDV to do it, don't like heights much......he is still at work, so I thought I would sneak in 4 extra days to do as I please;)[xmas2][chatter][zzz][beer]

[LiesaAnna]

just has to be done CDV doesnt it?[msnwink]

[Macka]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by sunseeker
Macka,what did you do to your cat to make it's eyes light up like that? [msneek]

Dave
[/quote]

Aaahh Yes, I wondered if anyone would ask Dave..

Simply take your cat, scoop out the inside, (taking care not to disturb the legs or it will not stand up) then insert a tea light up it's bum and hey presto, a novelty cat that will look marvellous outside or on the Christmas table.

[Paula D-S]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Macka
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by sunseeker
Macka,what did you do to your cat to make it's eyes light up like that? [msneek]

Dave
[/quote]

Aaahh Yes, I wondered if anyone would ask Dave..

Simply take your cat, scoop out the inside, (taking care not to disturb the legs or it will not stand up) then insert a tea light up it's bum and hey presto, a novelty cat that will look marvellous outside or on the Christmas table.
[/quote]

Oh you are naughty Paul

[Macka]

Not really Paula, I'm just a slave to my artistic flair.[msnwink]

[Sharon G]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by caitlin
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Macka
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by sunseeker
Macka,what did you do to your cat to make it's eyes light up like that? [msneek]

Dave
[/quote]

Aaahh Yes, I wondered if anyone would ask Dave..

Simply take your cat, scoop out the inside, (taking care not to disturb the legs or it will not stand up) then insert a tea light up it's bum and hey presto, a novelty cat that will look marvellous outside or on the Christmas table.
[/quote]

Oh you are naughty Paul
[/quote]


Don't fancy it much sat on the Christmas table though!!!![msnwink][msnwink]