Well, actually, no. Not quite yet.
The religious tradition that we are a part of, the Anglican/Episcopal tradition, is currently in a season called Advent. It is a time of devotion, reflection and preparation. It is not a time yet to start celebrating Christmas. We do not sing Christmas Carols at church until Christmas. Some more serious church members may not even put out Christmas trees and decorations until Christmas Eve.
The Christmas song The Twelve Days of Christmas is sung about Christmas Day and the twelve days thereafter, leading to Epiphany, the traditional day that the Wise Men arrive. That date is January 6th. So while many of our neighbors are packing it up, we are still celebrating.
Of course, in reality, even many Episcopalians have conceded to the dominant culture, and have begun to celebrate Christmas early, at least in a secular sense. And of course, it is virtually impossible to not at least begin to prepare for Christmas by shopping for gifts and sending them out way before Christmas, Even in our family, we have creeped forward.
But not this year. Our move has set us way behind. I have lost track of time and find myself way off schedule in getting gifts, particularly for those out of town. The usual goodie baskets for friends and neighbors are just not coming together. I feel awful but oops, there it is.
So there you have it, for better or worse. And like it or not, there's only one real solution for us.
We're going to have to go full bore Episcopalian on your a--. Everybody relax. The Straits are going to be late by general cultural standards this year. Many of you will get gifts or presents in a period where you think, "What's wrong with these people? Don't they know Christmas is over?" But technically we won't be late, as gift giving and celebration can actually continue until January 6th.
So when you get everything packed away be aware! The Straits are coming to get the party started!
Huzzah!
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