It's been a really fun Christmas season so far, especially since it's my first one as a Rans. After 21 years of unpacking about 20 boxes (maybe more) of Christmas decorations each year with my parents, it never even dawned on me that I would have a huge void to fill this year.

I can't tell you how much fun I've been having collecting, creating, and moving things around in our tiny house to fit all the holiday cheer.

To top off the excitement of having a sparkly 6 ft. Noble in one of the four corners of our home, it's been raining almost every day for the last couple of weeks in SLO! That means, we finally lit the pilot light on our heater and we never feel bad throwing another pot of coffee on the stove or cuddling up to watch another movie (lately it's been either Superman or Star Wars, and of course the holiday favorites – Home Alone, It's a Wonderful Life, and all the cheesy Hallmark Christmas Classics I can get my hands on).

I wish I had a fireplace to set ablaze, but seeing as I don't, Netflix comes in handy as wonderful stand in (episode 2). If you're not an avid Netflixy then check out YouTube's version – I heard they have a 10 hour one!

Iv'e been going through candles almost as fast as I have Candy Cane Joe-Joe's (my guilty Trader Joe's pleasure). A tip for all you mood light lovers – Bed Bath and Beyond sells a bag of 100 tea lights for $6, my saving grace because Michael's pack of 50 wasn't quite cutting it for me...

Also, if you are looking for some fresh greenery, or just something extra to add to the centerpiece on your dining room table check out Trader Joe's for fun, festive floral arrangement.

One more thing: Does anyone think it's weird that we can listen to the same songs every day for a month (or more) and not get tired of them?

Anyway, enjoy some pictures of our home; I pray they make you feel merry and bright.

Cue "White Christmas " by The Drifters – one of my all-time favorite Christmas songs!