For about 35 years my family has had two Christmas Trees. A formal tree in my folk's living room and a "family tree". The Family Tree tradition has evolved over the years. When my family left Oregon, and my parents resettled in the Seattle Area, the Family Tree somehow became the highlight of our Christmas celebrations. Until about ten years ago, the Family Tree was always the "real" tree.
The "Family Tree" has the most "kid appeal", so that's where our presents are always stacked. Adult kids are hard to separate from real kids come Christmas Morning. Which I believe is just the way it should be!
Handmade ornaments, lots of toys, and plenty of rudolphs, santas, elves and dwarfs cover each branch. Many of the ornaments are also antiques and have been passed down through the family for going on five generations. Some of the decorations on the "family tree" were my great grandparents while others were hand painted by my mother. The ornament in the center of this shot was made by my mother.
For the last decade, the family tree was also the Toilet Brush Christmas Tree. For years, my dad resolved that the Toilet Brush Tree would not be replaced as long as he was alive. Well my dad's still alive and somehow my mom finally got her way this year, because for 2006 the Toilet Brush Christmas Tree was finally replaced.
Now it has three light settings, clear, clear and multi-colored lights, and multi-colored lights only. I have to admit that replacing that tree felt a bit strange as its been front and center for so many wonderful memories.
Anyway on this Christmas Eve, I hope you enjoy the pictures. I wish everyone a wonderful night full of anticipation, the company of loved ones, and the chance to bask in the beauty of the season.
No comments:
Post a Comment