“Christmas makes you feel emotional. It may bring parties or thoughts devotional. Whatever happens or what may be, here is what Christmas time means to me.” The Judds

​Is there anything better than the reflection of a color wheel on a silver tree?  I’m an avid vintage lover, descending from the ultimate vintage-head himself, aka my dad.  We had an aluminum tree proudly on display in our big picture window growing up.  Every holiday season, cars would slowly pass as a flood of on-lookers reminisced of years gone by. 
As adults, both my brother and I were gifted aluminum trees from my dad.  He wanted us to share this sacred tradition with him.  I must say, this was a GREAT present!  I use it yearly, in addition to our regular family tree.  When we moved to Arizona, we purchased our first artificial tree.  We couldn’t get over the high price tags of the real ones.  The $20 price tag for a massive tree you self-cut in Illinois wouldn’t leave our minds.  For that same price, you’ll get a Charlie Brown tree in Phoenix! 
Nonetheless, we enjoy our artificial tree.  It is lovingly adorned with our children’s homemade ornaments, shiny glass balls, and a plethora of garage sale finds.  All year long I search estate sales for Christmas ornaments.  In addition to antique ones, I thoroughly appreciate the handmade decorations.  I often wonder about the person who created them.  What precious lady stitched this angel ornament into existence?  What sweet couple celebrated a 50th wedding anniversary with a commemorative ornament?  I feel by purchasing such treasures at garage sales, I’m acknowledging the value of these people and the lives they’ve lived. 
Often, when dealing with antiques, the story is what increasing the value of the piece.  Yes, the item itself may be valuable, but add an interesting history to it, and you may triple the price.   The same holds true to our lives.  Don’t get me wrong, there is always value to be had in any life!  But the ups and downs that we experience, the stories we have to share, that’s what’s truly interesting.  While you’re with family this Christmas season, take the time to share and listen to stories.  One of the most intriguing conversations I ever had with mine, began with two simple sentences.  Tell me the happiest time in your life.  Tell me the saddest time in your life.  Real heartfelt answers followed and I grew to really know and understand my loved ones. 

Isaiah 9:6 “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders.  And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”