I've just spent the last little while unwrapping some of my Christmas decorations. Special sentimental keepsakes - some of which go back to my childhood. Others that have been gifts over the years from family and friends - others that are treasures my own children or my Nephews have made for me.
My home is feeling a little more festive and as I look around it I am reminded of Christmases past. there is the reindeer I bought in Florida when I was 8 years old at 'Rogers Christmas House' - amazed at the fact that there was a store completely devoted to all things Christmas open in the middle of June!!!! There is the Santa boot that I bought in Harrods when shopping in London with my Mom one year. The Santa advent calendar that the children get excited to display each year December.....the stars I hand stitched last year for my little tree....my blue Santa that matches the cream one I bought for my In Laws - that caused my Brother In Laws problems at the airport - the security suspected he had stuffed it with drugs hahahaha! And then there is my amazing angel from South Street Seaport in New York City...the angel I fell in love with but didn't return for because I thought she was too expensive and I didn't want to inconvenience everyone...and then my Ex Mother In Law surprised me with her!!!! She's sooooo GORGEOUS!!! These are just a few of the items I have put out today. Yes they are just 'things'...just 'stuff'...but they are irreplaceable to me.
As I was unwrapping them I was feeling extremely grateful to be able to unwrap them - that I still have them here. I know a family not too far away that isn't so lucky this year. :( I know that everyone keeps telling Tara that she can go shopping for new Christmas decor and sure shopping is fun - I too love to go and look around the Christmas displays each year and add to my collection each year. But its not the same. The sentimental aspect just isn't there. There is something special in those personal decorations - the ones that MEAN something to you. To your children.
So my heart goes out to Tara. And please - when you are unwrapping your decorations this year, please take a moment to think of Tara and her family and just remember how very fortunate you are.
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