Christmas Memories

Christmas is the day that holds all time together.

Alexander Smith

Another Christmas is almost here. I spent some time decorating the house and porch last week, which was an enjoyable project filled with festive music and the cheerful spirit that this season brings. I mentioned in my last post that I decided to give away my Christmas Village, a bittersweet decision as it held a special place in my heart. However, as the photos above show, there are many other decorations that are part of our family celebrations, each with its own story to tell and memories to evoke. This year, after I filled a basket with greens and berries, I briefly considered not putting up the tree and placing the gifts around the basket. That thought quickly passed, though, as I realized the joy that the decorated tree brings to our home. There are so many ornaments with memories from years past that I couldn’t imagine not displaying them, from handmade creations by our family to treasured pieces passed down from previous generations. I know that there might come a time when Christmas decorating isn’t physically possible for me to do, but thankfully that time hasn’t arrived yet, and I find comfort in the rituals that continue to connect our family during this special time of the year.

Traditions have always been important to me, as they knit together the fabric of our family memories and create a sense of belonging. Back in the day when everyone sent and received holiday cards, I waited with anticipation for the envelopes to be opened. My grandparents, because of a business they owned, received easily a hundred cards each year. Every season the challenge was how these colorful expressions of holiday cheer would be displayed, igniting our creativity. One year, they were artistically attached in a whimsical tree shape on the wall, while another, they were hung gracefully from the drapes on elegant ribbons. The Christmas tree, a towering evergreen purchased from the local Boy Scouts, was not put up until Christmas Eve, creating a sense of excited anticipation. It stayed up until after Epiphany, marking the end of our festive season. My grandmother was very particular about the way the shimmering tinsel was hung on the tree branches; each piece had to be hung individually, creating a perfect cascade of silver. Our gifts were always opened on Christmas morning, the rustle of wrapping paper and shared excitement filling the room. One year, my grandfather went above and beyond, arranging for Santa himself to call me on Christmas Eve—a moment that sparked childhood awe and the excitement has remained etched in my memory ever since.

Wishing you joy and happiness this festive season. This will be my last post until after the new year, but I look forward to returning with fresh inspiration to share. May your holidays be filled with warmth, peace, and the love of family and friends, making this a truly memorable time as we embark on a new year. Peace be with you.