Every Ornament Has a Story
Every Christmas I admire the most creative and beautifully decorated trees imaginable. I see them at stores, on do it yourself television shows and in other people’s homes. However, I wouldn’t trade my tree for any of them. Why? Because every one of our well-loved ornaments has a story.
We pull out the ornament box and unwrap each piece from toilet paper to discover what lies within. From the “Baby’s First Christmas 1980” ornament to the hand crafted ornaments made over the years by my son, sisters and friends. Some of the ornaments hung on the trees we had when I grew up. My son and I sat and laughed as we talked about memories that were inspired by each of those treasures that only come out once a year.
There were those years when we couldn’t afford to give anything other than handmade gifts and ornaments fit the bill. We went through the bread dough ornament phases where we hand molded each piece to the reindeer clothes pins that included moving eyes and puffy tails. I’ve taken tole painting classes, cut wooden ornaments and hand painted each one. There are those that are crafted with needlepoint and works of art done by my sisters who both are very artistic. Many of them were created as moms, dads, nieces, nephews, sisters, sons, daughters and friends sat around the kitchen table and played. Several of the ornaments aren’t even recognizable to anyone but my son and I. A very young boy molded those and painted wild designs. It brings a smile to my face today.
A windmill from Amsterdam to teddy bears from Yellowstone, tell stories of our travels.
We have a variety from quirky ornaments to some pieces that take my breath away. Many families pass on heirlooms in the form of furniture and jewelry. Our family heirlooms will include small pieces that hang on a tree with stories to remind of of life’s difficulties and triumphs. As I look at them, I realize how quickly time flies and how blessed we are to have each other and those crazy and lovely memories to see us through.
Those wonderful designers that create beautiful Christmas delights just can’t compete. All my ornaments have a story and each one of them is priceless.
Merry Christmas!
