A Compilation of Memories

My favorite time of the weekend is early morning when Doughboy is still snuggled fast asleep in bed and the house is quiet. The pups have been fed and they are slumbering nearby. It is the time to catch up on blogging and reading my favorite blogs. I enjoy the eclectic mix of posts and, if so inspired, will write a comment to let the blogger know I am here and listening. I regularly visit every blog listed on my blogroll - it's like chatting with a cherished friend over a cup of coffee (even though I don't drink coffee). I gravitate toward bloggers who share similar interests and/or write from their heart. I look at blogging as a means to catch up with personal friends and family; however, I also enjoy blogs that inspire my passion for photography such as Country Girl Kate, and those rich in history such as Weaver's blog. Yes, I really enjoy the blogging community whom I visit regularly.

I was quite inspired this morning by Deb's description of setting the perfect table for her family and Weaver's commentary/poem on aging. Both of these posts struck a chord in my heart because I have been giving the holidays, particularly Christmas, much thought. I have many wonderful memories of the holidays when I was a young girl growing up in Wisconsin. It was the one time each year when our entire family - my maternal grandmother and all her children and grandchildren - gathered together. That same grandmother, beloved by all, passed away on Christmas Eve at 3 months shy of her 102nd birthday.

It is because of my wonderful memories that makes me want to create similar happy moments for my child and her children to remember. Familial traditions are important to me. As much as Deb works hard to set a lovely table, a metaphor for creating warm memories for her family, so do we work hard to set the stage at Christmas and other holidays throughout the year. It's all in the details - a carefully laid table, lovingly prepared food, warm fireplaces, brightly colored packages stacked beneath a decorated tree, scented candles in every room, and holiday music playing softly in the background. Our grandchildren are too young to notice the details, but they will some day.

They'll remember the needlepoint stockings embroidered with each of their names, the scented candles...


The table set in festive tradition with Santa Claus napkin rings...


Brightly colored ornaments on the tree...


And, Bumpa in his traditional holiday attire...


GAK! My eyes! My eyes!

Put some clothes on man, don't you know there are children around????