New Tradition Reveal. . .

Thank you for coming by to see the reveal of a new Thanksgiving tradition in our home. Before you scroll down to view the pictures let me explain the problem I was having this time last year when I was trying to wrap my brain around the idea of decorating for Christmas. You see, I was stressed, worn out, lacked energy & the desire to fluff my nest. I had to almost force myself to do a little decorating so there would be evidence of the Christmas season. I had always gone all out decorating for the holidays. I felt my creativity had dwindled to an almost nonexistent state. Since I retired 5 months ago I feel like I'm getting back to my old self. I thank the Lord everyday for renewed strength & spirit. This year I'm excited about decorating and making our house a home for the holidays.

I decided to set up two trees downstairs & decorate them for Thanksgiving. Of course after Thanksgiving I will decorate these trees for Christmas.

( click on pictures to view details )

This is the large tree in our piano room. I call it the 'heritage tree'. I have decorated it with fall ribbon & vintage pictures of our family. Some of the pictures are in frames that were sitting around the house, others I just pulled out of photo boxes & nestled in the branches. Next year I will have more time to choose pictures & plan for this tree. Also, next year I'll have sweet pictures of our new grandson, Ethan, to add to the tree!

This is a picture of my parents on their wedding day, October 7, 1948. The little photo is my Grandpa Ralph.

The top picture is my Dad & Uncle Jack, which I featured on a post in October. The oval frame is our engagement picture in 1975. On the bottom right is one of Bobby's senior pictures in 1999.

This is a tall skinny tree beside our fireplace in the family room. I call this our 'thankful tree'. I've decorated it with a few words & sayings to stir up thoughts about people & things to be thankful for in our lives. It also features fall ribbon & oven dried orange slices scented with cinnamon & cloves.

Here's a close up of one of the thoughtful sayings on the tree.

We're having a baked potato feast here tonight. I'll share details tomorrow.

Have a blessed day friends & family. Take time to reflect today about how good God is to you!