I have collected many Christmas Tree ornaments over the years and even have my first Gingerbread Doll ornament that I made when I was six. It has withstood time and I can still faintly smell ginger or I think I can and it takes me instantly back to Mom’s kitchen the day we made it. I consider it a family heirloom and treasure it.

My Aunt Adelaide who is 88 years old has added to those memories these past few years by sending me a crocheted snowflake each Christmas to hang on my tree. Each is unique and like a real snowflake no two are alike, beautiful in their own way. No matter how your tree is decorated it still symbolizes a timeless Christmas tradition of families gathered together exchanging love.

These are the words she shared in her Christmas card to me this year and a reminder that It is Christmas in the heart that puts Christmas in the air.

“Memories of Christmas

Keep coming back to me.

Sometimes no nuts or fruit

Sometimes no Christmas Tree.

So many things we didn’t have

I wouldn’t know where to start.

It didn’t seem to matter

We held Christmas in our heart”…

Copyright Es-tee Miller

What is Christmas? It is tenderness for the past, courage for the present, hope for the future. It is a fervent wish that every cup may overflow with blessings rich and eternal, and that every path may lead to peace. – Agnes M. Pharo