Deck the Halls!

The tree is trimmed and the house is finally ready for the holidays. We put the finishing touches on it Monday night and right on time, considering Christmas will be here before you know it. We went with the same silver and blue theme as last year. This was partially because we didn’t want to buy anymore decorations and also because I really like those colors together for Christmas.

There is a wave of nostalgia that comes over me each year as I take out the ornaments and decorate the tree. Not only do some of the ornaments bring back a moment in time, but it also gives me a chance to reflect on the special memories over the past year. There have been many ups and downs, but in the end I’m thankful to have a wonderful husband, a roof over our heads, loving family, and a good job.

I also can’t help but to think about my childhood memories and the wonderful times spent with family through the years during the holiday season. My favorite memories are from Christmas Eve each year. The night started out with a visit to Santa as he came around the neighborhood on the fire truck and then having my grandfather do a reading of 'Twas the Night Before Christmas to my cousins and me. We listened to Christmas music and celebrating the evening with loved ones. Going to bed that night was a magical feeling knowing the Santa would be on his way down the chimney. I’ll also never forget my grandmother teaching me the true meaning of Christmas and setting up the nativity scene with her each year.

What are some of your favorite Christmas memories or traditions? I would love to hear them.



2010 "C" Family Tree


Decorations on top of my grandma's china cabinet


Close up of the tree


Special ornament from my mom and one from the first Christmas Geof and I spent together


I love this because of the ice skates. It's called "A Winter Perch"


Ornaments for the first year in our house and our first Christmas together as husband and wife


The infamous "Leg Lamp" from A Christmas Story


Our monogram