Everyone has their own opinion about when to set holiday decorations up, but it seems this year, one neighborhood's HomeOwners Association (HOA) is weighing in on the debate, as well.
The Simonis family in Texas believed in the "It's not Halloween anymore" November 1st milestone for displaying their decorations this year, but not without some headaches from their HOA.
Nick and Claudia Simonis displayed their decorations early this year for a very specific reason: Claudia is eight months pregnant and is due for delivery on Christmas Day. They wanted to display their decorations early, before it became too difficult or hectic to do so.
Claudia said:
"I feel kind of heavy, so the earlier we can put up the decorations, the better. Because probably in two more weeks, I'm not going to be able to build all this."
Their HOA didn't agree with the early appearance of the decorations and sent the family a letter, asking them to take the decorations back down until a later date.
The letter said:
"Please remove the snowman until closer to the holiday season."
The Simonis family was immediately confused and upset because of the arbitrary request.
When does the holiday season technically "begin"?
What qualifies as "closer to the holiday season"?
Claudia said:
"I just found it crazy. Especially that they didn't give us a time. Like, when is the right time to put it?"
Nick said:
"I was angry, because there's a reason why we're doing it."
The HOA did not clarify their statement, and the family is reluctant to comply with the request.
Nick said:
"We're not going to do it. It's the Christmas spirit. We're not going to be forced by the HOA to take it down."
Nick and Claudia's neighbors have shown support for the family and their decision to keep their decorations up. The surrounding neighbors have even agreed to display their decorations early, as well, to further support the family's display.
The neighbors aren't the only ones to show their support. Many following the story on Twitter have shared their feelings about freedom of expression, celebration, and the frustrations of an HOA.
Though technically a small gesture, it's inspiring to see a family stand up for their decision by keeping their decorations up.
Ho, ho, ho and gobble-gobble can coexist in peace.
Country Home Holiday is available here to give you decorating ideas.
