Six years ago, in December 2018, I wrote a blog about how the lights on our Christmas tree mirrored the uncertainty in our lives at that time. Once again, I am struck by the similarities between this traditional decoration and my life. First of all, it is a new tree, smaller and simpler than the trees in all of the years of my life, like my new home. It is not the 9 1/2 foot tree we put up for 20 years in our home in West Liberty, or one of the 12-13 foot fresh trees we had for decades before that. It is the tallest, skinniest tree I could find that would fit in my new space. And it is pre-lit with all white lights--not my choice as I prefer multi-colored lights. But just one of the many adjustments this move has required.
For me, the important part of a Christmas tree has always been the ornaments, not the lights. Every ornament on my tree embodies a memory. Many were Christmas gifts from Butch. Others are souvenirs we picked up on travels--a green ceramic angel from Ireland (2010), a bear from the Smokey Mountains (2015), a street car from Boston (1978), among others. And a large number are handmade gifts from friends and family. There are cross stitched ones, painted ornaments, and felt creations. I was able to get about half of the collection on the tree--and it is loaded!
For me, the important part of a Christmas tree has always been the ornaments, not the lights. Every ornament on my tree embodies a memory. Many were Christmas gifts from Butch. Others are souvenirs we picked up on travels--a green ceramic angel from Ireland (2010), a bear from the Smokey Mountains (2015), a street car from Boston (1978), among others. And a large number are handmade gifts from friends and family. There are cross stitched ones, painted ornaments, and felt creations. I was able to get about half of the collection on the tree--and it is loaded!
This is the first year ever that I have put up the decorations before Thanksgiving. I will be traveling to Kentucky over Thanksgiving to spend several days with my kids, their spouses, and possibly a couple of the grandchildren. Since the time between the holidays is shorter this year, I decided to tackle the decorations early. After all, everything had to go in a new spot so there were decisions to make!
Again, this is a repeat of my move. Going from a four floor house to a five room apartment required a lot of pitching, repurposing, and overloading. There is a lot of new to get used to, but it keeps my brain alive and working. New lifestyle, new opportunities, new friends, and white lights on the tree. I have joined the Y and the senior center and a new church. I will be helping at the church food pantry and teaching a writing class at the senior center after the first of the year. And still some old to anchor me. Family, old friends, and old ornaments.
It has been a hectic year, but a good move. No maintenance (like the lights on the tree), many conveniences, events, and places to take advantage of. Bring on 2025!
Again, this is a repeat of my move. Going from a four floor house to a five room apartment required a lot of pitching, repurposing, and overloading. There is a lot of new to get used to, but it keeps my brain alive and working. New lifestyle, new opportunities, new friends, and white lights on the tree. I have joined the Y and the senior center and a new church. I will be helping at the church food pantry and teaching a writing class at the senior center after the first of the year. And still some old to anchor me. Family, old friends, and old ornaments.
It has been a hectic year, but a good move. No maintenance (like the lights on the tree), many conveniences, events, and places to take advantage of. Bring on 2025!
RSS Feed