December 1st and “the most wonderful time of the year” is here once again! December came so quickly as it does every year! As we sit at our table every morning looking back and forth between seeing the beautiful blue skies, so many trees that line the street below us and the many Christmas themed decorations that we carry from house to house through the years, we want to hold on to the memories of some of the special pieces that adorn our new place that we so appreciate the Lord giving to us. Some of the pillows that lean on the couch were made by my mom! Some of the Santa’s were special to my dad and for that reason they are now special to me. One of my favorite things is a manger Randys mom passed on to us! It was Randys when he was a young boy and every year when I unwrap the small pieces that are a part of the manger, I can’t help but wonder what Randy was like as a little boy and did he have that mischievous streak then that he has even to this day! If you have read any of the blog stories in Chocolatecastles.com, you know what I’m talking about.
As I have walked past several pieces given to us from dear friends, it is so great to just think of each and the year that we received the gift. So many precious friends who have been so special to both Randy and I. Yes, we have moved A LOT and have had many different houses in many different parts of Dallas, CA and AZ! But the memories and special items we always carry with us has helped us feel at home quickly no matter where we lived. Just like certain taste make us remember certain special events or people, special items can also contribute to times we want to always remember! When I was a young mom and wife, I remember thinking that it would be so great to have money to just go out and buy beautiful Christmas decorations instead of having to use the “old stuff” my mom had passed on to me. Now, I’d give anything to have some of that “old stuff” that was given away to make room for new decorations! Why does it take most of us (I hope I’m not the only one who it took years to appreciate family pieces more than just more Hobby Lobby items added to the collection). Don’t get me wrong. I love HL but I love the old pieces more, the older I get!
Maybe this year as we walk past pieces that may not look like they fit in with the latest trend of decorations, think of the giver when you hold or look at a certain piece! If the giver is still living, offer a prayer for them and ask the Lord to bless them this Christmas season! Drop them a note to express how much they mean to you! Gifts of love and thankfulness to others should be at the top of our Gift giving list! Not only to others but to the Greatest gift giver ever…The Lord God who gave His son for us that we might allow Him to become our Savior.
Not only at Christmas, but all through the year….give thanks with a grateful heart!
They are a prized possession I have so enjoyed every year since then.
Chocolate Castles 