Sentimental Decor

Most of the Christmas decorations in my home have a story.  None are expensive but each are priceless to me.  Because most are one of a kind, a gift, or handmade, they are irreplaceable.  I love nothing more than to snuggle on the couch by the fire this time of year, surrounded by the twinkling lights, and gaze at my decor.  Wherever I look, a memory sits.  

I enjoy the soft glow of my willow tree angel collection, as greenery and white lights weave across the mantle, making a Christmas nest for them to be displayed.  Each angel has been given to me and shares a story about what they symbolize and the relationship I have with the giver.

Throughout the house, mostly in my kitchen and dining room, snowman peek from every nook and corner.  I love snowmen and just looking at one always warms my soul.  Many of them are also gifts and I remember the season and the person who blessed me with the treasured trinket.

Also in the kitchen is our kid's tree, which is full of pine cones and handmade ornaments from the boys.  Looking at this tree is a stroll down memory lane, as I recall chubby little fingers proudly handing me each one.  I also vividly remember the day we drove out to my mom's, walked into the woods and handpicked each pine cone.  We spent the afternoon gluing on glitter and tying on yarn to hang them by.  And my favorite part of the tree, the hand print star.  I traced the boys' hands and alternated big and little before gluing to a Popsicle stick.  The tree is a snapshot of our past and I'm filled with happy memories each time I see it.

My oldest decoration is a worn and tiny little caroler singing "Silent Night".  This was a familiar sight at my Grandma Coons' house for as long as I can remember.  As a child, I would sit in front of it and read the words to sing the song.  To this day, I can't hear that tune without thinking of this decoration.  I mentioned it several years back while visiting Grandma at Christmas and, to my surprise, she sent me home with it.  She commented that she'd thought several times of throwing it away, never imagining it had any sentimental value to anyone. 

And that's why I probably take such love and care with all my Christmas decor.  I hope that they bring my family happiness and memories for years to come - I know they bring so much joy to me.