And the countdown is on.

There is a television advertisement that is run at the beginning of this month, and its aim is to remind viewers how many shopping days are left until Christmas.

Every time I hear this commercial, my anxiety level begins to rise because the thought of not finishing all the things I plan to do for the holidays creates sheer panic.

I am not sure why this 30-second ad affects me as it does.

One theory could be that it conjures up the times I have often been late for church or outings and left so many tapping their feet and waiting for me.

Punctuality has never been my strong suit, and I do feel a bit guilty when I disappoint family and friends for my tardiness.

Well, obviously I do not have enough remorse to change my ways.

So, theoretically, for someone who is so lackadaisical on being prompt, it would seem this notion might not be the culprit for my worry.

Nevertheless, even though the clock does not rule me on a daily basis, I am an anomaly when it comes to holidays and entertaining events.

I like to be the impossibly perfect host. Not only do I want everything to look picture perfect, I want it all finished in a timely fashion so I can bask in the glow of all my accomplishments!

But, I pay the price when it comes to my quest for flawlessness and desire for promptness for these occasions. My lofty goals, coupled with a large family and a hubby, who does not see eye to eye with me when it comes to making sure the house and yard are magazine ready for guests, has at times created moments of weeping and gnashing of teeth.

This year, I have decided things are going to be different.

In an effort to try to prevent a marital breakdown and to enjoy as many fun times with friends and family while still attempting to have my home holiday ready, I started my Christmas decorating before Thanksgiving.

In years past, this was never the case since the thought of pulling out Santa in November would have been sacrilegious.

But times are a changing, and the tree came down from the attic and was strung with lights before baby girl came home from college for Thanksgiving.  

I am determined to have as much of a stress-free Christmas as the law allows, and I am resolute to attend some of the many events offered around town.

This year has brought many changes to the Frazier household, and I plan to add decorating before Thanksgiving to the list. So if you drive by this weekend, my house will already be lit up.  

Terri Cowart Frazier is a staff writer for The Vicksburg Post. You may reach her at terri.frazier@vicksburgpost.com. Readers are invited to submit their opinions for publication.