Decorating the Tree

We finally brought out the Christmas tree and all of the trimmings for FHE last night. We put on Christmas music and enjoyed pulling out the ornaments. Even after G tested the tree lights, one strand didn't light up after they were already put on the tree. Very frustrating. The boys got to put their own ornaments on the tree, and we shared the others. Many ornaments are from places we've visited as a family ... so lots of memories came flooding back as we put them on the tree. Like usual, the ornaments were all clumped together. G and I were amazed at how many ornaments we've collected over the years. For years, we'd have to buy those red balls to fill our tree up with ornaments, but now, we have plenty. I think N was the MOST excited of our boys for the decorations to come out. He absolutely LOVES any and all holidays, especially the Christmas season. We also got the lights on the outside of the house. Again, G put up all of the lights and only about 20 actual bulbs worked! uggh! I went and bought new strands and we started over. I LOVE Christmas lights, and I'm so glad to have them up and working. One of my favorite things to pull out at this time of year is our Nativity Scene, which is made from olive wood. We bought it when we visited Israel 7 years ago. Not only does it remind us of the true meaning of Christmas, it reminds me of a wonderful family trip .. a trip of a lifetime!