Christmas is about traditions. Those traditions at our house are things that bring smiles to our faces. Our decorating of the tree happens much later than many homes, typically in the last week before Christmas. Our faithful (and old) tree is taken out of storage and the big boxes of decorations brought out of their hiding places. Janis & I sorted things out a little in readiness, before the kids arrived because we understand that the excitement level will be very high and things will happen quickly once we begin. Janis asked Juniper to pick out the favourite ornaments while Henry and I set up the tree. This is Henry’s favourite part because it involves the use of tools! Henry also loves stringing the tinsel garlands as this task involves marching very quickly around and around the tree as grampa does his best to keep things a little bit orderly as we loop the garlands over the branches. The ornaments, all handmade by family members through the years, are arranged carefully, covering the big dining room table. Then the kids race back and forth to the tree with one ornament at a time, hanging them carefully. In between each trip grampa moved the ladder around the tree in a somewhat futile effort to space out the ornaments. Janis & I clearly understood that the goal is not to have a perfect tree, but to have a fun and memorable experience. Grandma coached the kids a little from the dining room but mostly just grinned and enjoyed the whirlwind of activity. I believe a new speed record was achieved this year as well as the most beautiful Christmas tree ever! There’s only seven more sleeps until Santa comes!
