Oh Christmas Tree

This past week we decorated our Christmas tree.  I actually debated doing a tree this year, as I knew Dylan would wreak havoc on it, but I am so glad I did.  My 8 (almost 9) month old son has figured out that if he lays on his back, he can use his feet to pull a branch down while still having his hands free to shake it!  I wasn't even annoyed in the moment, because I was so impressed! I think he may take after his handy-man-engineer Daddy.  I will note I have since fenced off the tree and also anchored the tree to the wall.  Next year I plan on buying some toddler-friendly ornaments for the bottom and practice the word "gentle."

Seeing the twinkle in his eyes as he takes in the wonder of the holiday season far outweighs any pleasure I would take from a "perfect" tree and holiday home.  Christmas is about celebrating Christ's birth with family and friends.  In the words of the reformed Grinch from Dr. Seuss' book:

“ It came without ribbons! It came without tags!
It came without packages, boxes, or bags!”

He puzzled and puzzed till his puzzler was sore.
Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn’t before.

Maybe Christmas, he thought, doesn’t come from a store.
Maybe Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more!”

— DR. SEUSS, THE GRINCH WHO STOLE CHRISTMAS

Pictured below are my favourite holiday ornaments which are the ones from my childhood.  See Santa with a missing limb?  These aren't my fashionable ornaments, but I love the nostalgic memories of Christmas past they evoke (even if they are scraped and scuffed).

Here is the finished result! I can't wait to see how our tree evolves over the years as our family does.