The “old people’s social media site” recently shared with me a photo from 10 years ago.
This Christmas setup was 4 houses ago, in Arizona. What a trip (literally, and figuratively) to think how many fireplaces we’ve hung stockings from. How many trees we’ve decorated and situated in how many different floor plans, and how many holidays filled with joy that we’ve been blessed with.
After that house there was the farmhouse in Iowa (the fireplace is just outside the frame):
And then there was the Kansas City house:
And now, Wisconsin. Which, arguably, is the coziest and most perfectly set up for Christmas of all the houses:
Looking back on these photos was fun, because it reminded me of some of the same traditions we’ve carried with us through the years.
There’s the boys making gingerbread houses at all stages of their childhood. I can spot some of the same ornaments hanging in 2015 that still grace our tree this year. (You can read more about that in this post, Perfectly Imperfect.) There’s the special Christmas decor we got in Germany in 2016, on display then and now. The toys underneath the trees have changed, but not the spirit of the season, and the warmth and joy it fills us with.
No matter where you land, make it yours. The memories will stay with you.
