Thanksgiving has come and gone, and around here that means that it’s officially the Christmas season. Number one on the list: the Christmas tree is up, decorated, and shining brightly. I know what many of you are thinking – too early! I don’t think so. Thanksgiving is a perfect time to get the party started, even put a few presents under the tree.

Like Charlie Brown and Clark Griswold, I have worked for decades trying to manage the perfect Christmas. It all starts with the tree trimming, a serious holiday tradition.

Included in that are some serious tree ornaments and some serious goodies. Sometimes, we start off with a nice bottle of Champagne (and sparkling grape juice for the kiddies). We also indulge in a few holiday treats during the event. It all says, “we are ready for the season,” and that includes (much to the chagrin of my wife) all the classic holiday movies.

This year, we celebrated with our granddaughter and enjoyed some hot chocolate. We put up ornaments that have been collected from all over the world and gifted by family and friends over the years.  Some of the ornaments are nearly 50 years old. But, I hear some of you: five or six weeks is just too early to be putting up the tree. Well, perhaps it’s an indulgence, but it’s certainly no record: witness stores featuring Christmas decorations and promotions before Halloween. Now that’s early.

How about you? When do you put up your holiday tree? Do you use real trees or artificial? Do you even do a Christmas tree? What is your Christmas kick off?