Our Tree

Just for fun I thought I'd share our tree with you. I LOVE an overly ornamented tree, as long as there is some sort of rhyme or reason to it.

Our tree is loaded with memories, each ornament, except the 2 dozen plain red balls and white lights, has a story behind it. Every year from birth on, we give our children an ornament and date it. I started this because when I moved out of the house I had nothing, not a single ornament, or the funds to purchase any, so my first tree was a lonely sort of thing with some bread dough ornaments I quickly made. They lasted just that year as I couldn't afford the sealer to make them last any longer. My mom also started this when my oldest son was born, now they bring them an ornament from their travels each year . So probably 70 percent of the ornaments you see here belong to my kids and will leave with them when they have a family of their own. I get Jay a fishing related ornament every year, too and there are ornaments from friends, in addition to the ones the kids have made through the years at school or camp. I just love all of them! I've been on the lookout for the perfect topper for years, but haven't located one yet, so for now it's a red bow. I will know the topper when I find it, it will speak to me.

The tree skirt which you can't see, is handmade and there is a felt appliqué designating each year with a holiday image of one sort or another. This was a something my mom started on their tree and I remember making the appliqués for their tree skirt. I have never been able to get my own kids interested in this though, so it remains up to me. Don't tell anyone I am a few years behind! LOL As you can see we simplified our wrapping, we used to be all ribbons and bows, not anymore, a label on the top allows for stacking and is just easier. I also have such a problem with all the paper waste, but that is another column.

The truck you can see on the right belonged to Jay when he was a little boy. It was made for him when he was little by his grandfather. The stuffed bear on the truck was made by my grandmother although his snow cap disappeared somewhere over the years.

For many years we purchased a tree, but in our dry, and sometimes hot December weather, made for a very brittle tree by Christmas. So we went artificial a few years ago. I miss the tree hunt and the pine smell, but the ease of pulling it out of the garage and having it prelit are a bonus.

Lastly, an online friend of mine, Bev, recently suggested a "Cross One Thing Off Your List" campaign. I don't know about you, but I love the holiday time and at the same time think otherwise. So, this year, I am crossing off holiday baking. The cards are done and in the mail today, the gifts are mostly all done, many left to be wrapped, but the baking is my least favorite thing to do, so that is getting the axe this year. What will you cross off?

Who knew a post about a tree could get so long! LOL

Happy Happy Holidays!