Christmas Pirates!

Well, ‘tis the season to be jolly. Well, almost. In Ecuador, they don’t really do the whole American Thanksgiving thing. Their main holiday before Christmas is Halloween. Actually, up until recently even that wasn't much of a thing we hear. In the United States, at least in my experience, Thanksgiving is the official kick-off to Christmas preparation. In the absence of Thanksgiving here, Christmas decorating and preparation begin in October.

We were a little hesitant to begin our Christmas preparation until this week because we wanted to stay in line with our traditions and experience, but we couldn't hold back any longer. This weekend we went out for some Christmas decorations.

Christmas Pirates!

Something you all need to know about me before continuing to read is that I am a huge Christmas fan. I have some very specific and strange family traditions. I love all of the music, movies, and lights. The Christmas season really improves my mood by about 78% at all times.

We walked into the store and low and behold, it was magnificent. It wasn't just a Christmas store. It was a Christmas store with pirates. Yes, I said pirates. As in Johnny Depp, Jack Sparrow, Argh Matey! Pirates. Let that marinate on your mentals for a few moments before continuing. I don’t know if this is an Ecuadorian tradition and theme, if it was the theme of the specific store, or if they were just super into pirates. I repeat. Christmas pirates have taken over South America.

Pirate with her Steel
Treasure Chest

I’ve heard of Christmas stores employing humans dressed as elves. I’ve even seen a few Santas and reindeer in my day. Pirates!?! Not before today.

We picked up a few overpriced decorations, and we are going to begin putting them up tonight. We have some plans for Shannon’s family to come visit us during the holidays and we have a few ideas up our sleeves. I am sure there will be a lot more to say regarding the Christmas preparations but until next time,  enjoy your turkey day and have fun shopping for your booty as the real holidays approach. After all, 'tis the season to be jolly rogers. (Sorry I couldn't resist)