First Married Christmas Tree

One major tradition marked the Thanksgivings of my youth: the readying of the house for Christmas! By the time my sister and I awoke, my mother would have completely wiped the decor of every day from the house and begun spreading the Christmas cheer; we "helped" her while watching the Macy's parade. It was always a busy, yet fanciful morning's work. Fast forward to the teenage years when it was all about sleeping late (late enough to miss out on this childhood tradition).

This year, far from home, I couldn't wait to decorate my own home for Christmas. After much hand-wringing, I picked out a tree (on sale! multi-colored lights!) that's just the right size for our cozy back room. Trimming this tree was downright jolly, due much to the sizable collection of familiar ornaments my mother had gathered for me through the years.

Near the bottom of the tree you'll see Strawberry Shortcake holding a candy cane and at the top of the tree are a round "Baby's First Christmas" ornament (you'll have to guess the year yourself) and a Precious Moments ballerina.

Here are some pictures of my newer ornaments, many of which I received at a couples shower last year where the attendees brought ornaments in addition to goodies from Pottery Barn.

This one marks our family trip to Disney World in 2008...

Here, a special Snoopy hides among the boughs...



I was so moved by the personal touch on this one.

And last but not least... the one representing the reason I have my first married Christmas tree at all. : )

What are your special Christmas tree traditions?