My Magical Tree

One of my favorite holiday traditions is decorating the Christmas tree the Friday after Thanksgiving. (I'm not one to get up at some crazy hour and shop with the masses. I'm more of a Cyber Monday kind of gal.)Back to the tree, Mom has done this to me. The things that we don't appreciate as children, somehow become fond as we grow older.
I now love the nostagia in uncovering 38 years of ornaments and memories. And I love hanging them with her, making some new memories as we reflect on those past.Mom often talks about things being magical (like the glitter and confetti she puts in her cards). I finally get it, Momma. It's not some new age chatter or a an excuse to make a mess. It is color and sparkle that bring an unexpected joy into our hearts. It makes us stop, for a second, and take it in. We need more of that.

Now my magical tree is not only those things, but a beautiful, daily reminder of why we celebrate Christmas.Thank you, Momma, for my magical tree. I've enjoyed it every day since you left...and it makes me appreciate a little bit more of who you are. (I'm a slobbery mess now.)
Another 'tradition' is Darren's participation in the tree decorating.
He is faithful to hang at least one ornament...I tried to hide it one year and tried to talk him out of it another.
It's kind of like the wagon wheel coffee table of Christmas ornaments. But, somehow I've learned to appreciate that goofy Cowboy lawnchair Santa. And now it's part of our magical tree as well, prominently featured.