MARION - One eastern Iowa family is putting the question - how early is too early to decorate for the holidays? - to the test.

But they say you'll understand.

If you think it's too early to hang Christmas lights outside, wait till you see what's inside one home in Marion, a Christmas tree and even stockings
hanging over the fireplace.

But Debbie Pasker says there's a good reason for her rush to decorate.

"Our daughter is coming back."

Thursday, Specialist Jess Brown arrives in eastern Iowa with her husband Sergeant Ricky Brown, and their children Ricky Junior and Jourdin.

Jess is on a brief break from her second tour in Iraq, and Debbie says they have a lot to squeeze in the next few days.

"We're celebrating the two babies birthdays Friday because she missed their first and second birthday. Saturday we are celebrating her 24th birthday. And Sunday we are doing Thanksgiving and Christmas," said Pasker.

Talk about a tiring schedule, but Debbie says the last time they were all together was 14 months ago and Jess is scheduled to be in Iraq until spring.

So, the next six days will be all about family fun.

"I'm kind of anal, everything has to be perfect. I just want it to be perfect for her."

So we need to say goodbye to Debbie, she has a lot to do before her guests arrive Thursday afternoon.

Jess is a Linn-Mar graduate. Her family is stationed in El Paso, Texas, but again, she will be in Iraq until spring.

We'll introduce you to Jess and her family Thursday night on the KCRG-TV9 news.