Welcome from greater Chicagoland -- southwest suburban Chicago, to be more specific. DMom of 1, grown and married, lives about an hour away, and one white schnauzer who became my companion in late Jan. 2016. GMa to one goldendoodle. I was widowed not quite 10 years ago (though some days it seems like yesterday) and moved 7 years ago from our nearly 100-year old single family home of 35 years into a townhome, requiring far less maintenance. With DD marrying, other family more spread out, and being widowed, the holidays have been pared down and streamlined. They've become what I make of it, even if it's only for my own personal enjoyment. My holiday decor brings me enoyment and makes me smile and relax a little more than usual. And the HGP helps me keep on top of things I'd otherwise let slide, since it's just me. We all do as much as we want, to meet our needs. So, know that you're welcome in this space. Come join the fun!