December 3

When trying to think of a favorite ornament, I wasn't able to pick just one. I have too many favorites that hang on my tree each year.   Decorating the tree for me is a walk down memory lane.  I always start by laying out my special ornaments.  Each one I pick up to hang on the tree is tied to a memory or to a time in my life.  They remind me of where I have been as well as who has loved and supported me throughout my life.  I have several ornaments that are white from my first Christmas.  One of my most treasured is a wooden ornament with birds on it from my godparents. While I may not remember those first Christmases I know I was loved.  I have other handmade ornaments from family members given to me during my childhood. Another favorite is a golden angel given to me by a Sunday school teacher at Hope Lutheran that I was just reunited with this year and was able to tell her how I still hang that ornament on my tree.   I have ornaments from my parents that used to hang on our family tree so I can have part of our family Christmas memories with me.  I have one from high school and college as well as ornaments from when I first moved to Juneau.  And finally, I have ornaments given to me in recent years that remind me of the blessings I have in my life now. My tree is full of ornaments that help me remember I am loved and I am blessed.  May we all remember how we are loved this Christmas season.