Trimming the Christmas Tree
Mary and I (mostly Mary) started decorating our Christmas Tree last night. I have to say, I've always just quickly wrapped strings of lights around the tree and thought that's just how it was done. Mary, however, is a pro. She doesn't just walk around the tree and rest the string of lights on the branches. Oh no, she wraps the string around individual branches. "It gives it some depth," she says. Admittedly, the tree looks WAY better with this approach. You just have to have some patience and dedication.
After she got the lights on (I helped...kind of), we hung some non-specific ornaments like icicles, glass balls, etc. Then she hung some of her own personal ornaments. I have yet to find mine, although I think they may still be at my parents' house. Having lived in four different places since I graduated from college, I'm sure they're in a box somewhere.
Most of the time while Mary was working, Bentley just sat and watched. Although he looks sad in this picture, he really was enjoying himself.
Comments
mom S. wrote on 12/15/08 1:51 PM
That Mary is really a decorating whiz. She's been doing it since she was a little girl. She would go over to G & G Nayder's house and help grandma set everything up and, believe me, there was A LOT of stuff. After Grandma started to fade physically, she would just go over and do the whole job, for which Grandma and Grandpa (and me) were most grateful.
Now, she does the same thing for me as I'm not as agile (HA!) as I used to be. When she's on the job there's never a need to worry - it will all turn out beautifully.
Your tree looks really festive and Bentley looks so contented in his new home - this should be a wonderful Christmas for all of you. Hope we can share some of the time with you; Christmas has always been so special in our family (like others) and we're hoping we can keep the spirit alive for the whole family.
Jack, it's so sweet of you to help. Soon you'll be an old pro at decorating, too. Just do what she tells you to and everything will be fine.
Love ya' both! mom S.
Mom M. wrote on 12/16/08 6:39 PM
Jack,
Fear not! Your childhood ornaments have been found, along with your Nutcracker for your mantle. Oops, you don't have a mantle. Top of the tv maybe? Top of the china cabinet?
Dad and I were lucky to have our tree finished (after lights and basic glass balls were on) by Annalee. She was in speed decorating mode and finished the job, with a bit of help from her mom and dad, in just under an hour. That also included the little 4' tree in the family room. No help needed for that. She just climbed the little step stool to reach the top. And it all looks pretty good, too, despite some "clustering" of ornaments. If you and Mary ever need a helper, I highly recommend Annalee.
love,
Mom M.
P.S. Your tree does look good. Post more pictures, please.
JF wrote on 12/19/08 1:55 PM
The wrapping for depth technique is THE way to go....I am a student of that particular school of treat decor, and it definitely makes the tree just glow. You are right, though, about it taking patience....something I have run out of, so this is the 4th Christmas we are going with out a tree. I'm not a Grinch, I just can't put up the tree without thinking how horrible it will be to take down! :) Good thing we'll be home and our mom's have nice trees. Yours looks great, love the pics!
Aunt Lorrie wrote on 12/19/08 5:56 PM
Your tree looks very pretty! I wait to take mine down until all the needles have fallen off the tree. Much easier that way. And last year I had it all cleaned up by Easter!
Bentley looks sad because he knows that tree is not for him. But if he's a good dog there will be a nice rawhide bone for him under the tree from Santa Paws!
Dad S wrote on 12/20/08 8:35 AM
It looks like the Minsters on Fry St are setting the tone and pace for Christmas decorations. Way to go team!