As a member of the home decor and DIY blogosphere, the Christmas season starts November 1st. This is a fact.
Before you decide to rag on me for hopping on the blogosphere band-wagon I thought I’d take the time to explain my stance on decorating for Christmas in November. This is a contentious issue in the military family community, and as a home decor and DIY blogger as well as a military spouse I understand both sides, so it’s important that I explain to you guys where I stand.
Decorating your house for Christmas on November 1st is entirely your prerogative, and I secretly revel when I can enjoy some holiday cheer earlier than expected. It’s a guilty pleasure to say the least! Goodness knows the stores are in full Christmas swing by early November, so succumbing to the holiday madness is all too easy. That being said, I don’t personally chose to decorate until later in the month. I’ll tell you why in a minute.
I realize that Remembrance day can get glossed-over in the rush to Christmas. As a military spouse and a member of a proud military family tradition, I like to think that November 11th is an important date for everyone but I know it’s not always the case. Halting the onslaught of Christmas until at least November 12th seems like a reasonable way to ensure that Remembrance Day gets the attention it deserves.
However, waiting until November 12th to decorate for Christmas doesn’t mean that you respect our Veterans more than the next guy. It just means you waited till the 12th.
Remembering our veterans and those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice comes from taking the time to learn about their sacrifices, teaching future generations about Canada’s engagements internationally, and pausing on the 11th to honour them with a minute of silence. There are tons of great resources online if you’re interested in other ways you can help remember them here // Veterans Affairs. //
As a society, If we teach our children that honouring our veterans is only waiting until November 12th to decorate for Christmas then what are actually doing? What lessons are being imparted?
I’ll be creating, thinking and styling for Christmas all month long! None of my actual decor will be going up until later in the month though. As a blogger this is my prime time for holiday content and I’d be remiss if I didn’t participate in the build-up with other bloggers, but I personally prefer it later in the month.
I will also be commemorating and remembering those who served all month long. Taking the time to read profiles of those who have passed, revisiting family history, and thanking my lucky stars that I’m not “remembering” my husband.
Did you know that a group of fellow spouses and I will be selling poppies for the Legion leading up to November 11th? We did it last year and enjoyed it so much we’re doing it again this year. It’s a lot of fun, a great way to meet your community and you support the legion all at the same time! Give your local Legion a phone call to see if they need any volunteers this season.
So that’s that. Do what you want, but don’t shame others or wag your finger if they’re choosing to honour our veterans differently than you.
Live boldly.
