When I visit people's homes during Christmas I can often be found standing at their Christmas tree looking at the ornaments. I find the collection of ornaments on each tree to be a fascinating story.
Decorating the tree (or trees) is a chance to relive events, funny moments, tough times, childhood memories, and so much more. On our tree we have ornaments dating back to my childhood (including one I made at school from part of an egg carton and a piece of garland), my collection of churches, Wayne's collection of John Deere tractors, several French Horns, several flutes, tap shoes, a variety of Breast Cancer Awareness ornaments and mementos from the 3 Day Walk, glass candy, sparkly ornaments, Disney ornaments, some from a trip to Boston, two from our cruises, ornaments made for me by students, and many, many more. Each one has a story and a feeling attached to it. Each year the stories are told. And each year we had more ornaments - trips we've taken, special sentiments, new activities in which we have participated, etc.
Next year will be bittersweet for me. Starting with Catherine's very first Christmas, I have given her at least one special ornament each year. Some years there have been several new ones. Next Christmas it is highly likely she will have her own apartment and her own Christmas tree, so when we take the tree down and pack up the ornaments this year, there will be a separate container filled with Catherine's ornaments to take with her when she establishes her own home. I know that's the way it's supposed to be...it's the way I planned it for all these years. It will seem strange for those ornaments to be on a tree other than the one in my house, yet I am very much looking forward to seeing them on Catherine's tree and to hear her pass along the stories through the years.
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