Christmas: Simple Memories

Well,......here's a start. I have a few decorations up. It's has been really nice, enjoying the slower process. Most of it is done on my own time, instead of the short hurried time when everyone can get together. Other years more family has been involved, which it GREAT, but then I'm directing, there's more hustle and bustle, all the personalities - fun times, precious moments, memories, and exhausting being in the center of all that. Even though it is busy, I try to keep things simple. It is the family times, memories, what we have in our hearts that make Christmas. Next Sunday all the family that is in the area will come and we will have a tree decorating party. We have done this for many years, one of those family memories. As we decorate, the kids remember years past, and laugh over their ornaments they made and so lovingly have hung every year. There is one Snow White ornament that is affectionately fought over every year. It is one person's tattered treasure and most others abhor it. Outside, wreaths adorn every window, garland is swagged along the porch railings. The posts are circled in dark red ribbon. Inside, a light in each window, the old tradition of welcome, and lighting the way for travelers. .

The sugar cookies are ready for the grand kids decorate.
Peanut brittle and other goodies are ready.

My work areas are stacked with sweets. We have a big family and many friends who will eat most of this....thankfully.
Cranberry garlands are swagged over the cupboards.

Blocks, giving word to the message of the season are set.



Reindeer visit.
Today I will go and harvest pine and fir boughs to make wreaths and garland. There will be sprigs of green and holly tucked most everywhere. The house will take on the aroma of winter Christmas. There will be bowls of cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, cloves, and star anise scenting every room. There are still the Christmas village, Nativity, angels, etc. to set out. As I'm decorating, I'm thinking of making memories for my family. Thinking of the peace we can experience because of what happened so long ago, the precious gift we have been given. That gift is always at the center of our celebration.