Growing up, my sister and I loved decorating the tree. We arranged and rearranged the ornaments over and over again. It was a game for us, and one Mom didn’t seem to mind.
In my single years, I didn’t have the space or I wasn’t interested in the fuss. One of my favorite memories from my first year of marriage was reviving that tradition. Together we bought a small tree and a few ornaments, then posed for a dozen pictures in front of the decorated tree.
Adding Traditions
When our boys came along, we added to that tradition: they each choose one ornament a year. I document them in a journal; what they choose and why. It’s interesting to mark the passage of time each year, as we unwrap all our little treasures.
Our assortment of baubles is an eclectic one. Hanging from the branches you’ll find a Star Trek Phaser, Batman, Tweety Bird and an articulated metal seahorse. My hope is to pass on their collection of ornaments when they start life as adults away from home.
Garden Meets Tree
In the meantime, we’ve amassed our own collection through gifts, travel and events. Here are my garden-themed favorites:
Watering Can Ornaments, a gift from my sister-in-law
Birch and Maple autumn leaves dipped in gold, a gift from Mom
Teacup with flowers from a dear friend (tea and flowers in one)!
The newest addition: A miniature button Christmas Tree (from a talented, kindred soul)
Do you celebrate Christmas? If so, what do you hang on your tree?
Gardening Nirvana 
I love them all! And I recognize that adorable tree from our friend! 🙂
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Thank you! It makes me smile, too, that you recognize that tree. What a fun community we have.
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Christmas decorations make me smile each year… slowly unwrapping little packages that contain memories, happiness and love. Your post is lovely Alys and I especially like those watering cans!
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Thank you, PJ! You are the sweetest.
I’m picturing you smiling right now. I’m glad you share a similar experience as you unwrap your own treasures.
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awww ((( Alys ))) I feel the same, kindred to be sure. I’m honoured that you’ve put it on your tree with your special keepsakes. mwwwaa !
Clever you for starting your sons off with their very own collections and a journal about it. That will be a beautiful gift when they begin their own traditions.
I’ve put up my little tree but there’s nothing on it except lights, which I’m enjoying. Hopefully today, you’ve inspired me to get busy. xoK
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Mwwwaaa to you too! I love that button tree and the love that went into it. I’m honored!
A tree with lights is special in itself. I love the warm glow of Christmas lights. A night or two before Christmas, late at night when my family is in bed, I stand alone and just “drink it in” the glow, the warmth, the moment of quiet. Enjoy your special tree. I hope it makes it into a post.
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I did bring some ornaments home from our locker. I’m not sure what’s in the box, it’ll be decorating on a wing and a prayer. I’m a little nervous about leaving the diva’s home along with a decorated tree while we’re away, I might carry it in to the powder room…hehehe, fancy powder room.
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I don’t blame you. I really miss Fluffy this time of year. She loved sleeping under our tree and posed for many a photo. I’ll have to dig those up.
How big is your tree?
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awww Fluffy, cute. I’ll watch for those pictures.
We’re using a smaller tree I bought at Woodwards (Canadian store like Eatons) when they closed for good. It was part of the store decor and a really nice thick 4.5′ tree. Our regular tree is in storage…maybe next year 🙂
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Yes! Next year you’ll be in your new place. I can just feel it.
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what a great idea and great ornaments too. I want a little garden ornament tree now!! would look so cute in my sunroom. LOVE IT!
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Oh, that would look cute in your sun room! I’m going to keep my eyes open for gardening ornaments. When I find some, I’ll send the link your way.
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The watering cans are wonderful, I really like the gardening theme idea. I must admit to hanging teddy bears on my tree, well it is my den’o’bears after all! 😉
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I hope you’ll share a photo of your teddy bear tree. So sweet.
Thanks, Eleenie!
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