We buy our our Christmas trees now from McLendon's Hardware in White Center instead of the rather snooty West Seattle Nursery. A lowly Douglas Fir costs what a fancy Noble Fir did a few years ago. But no matter, there is nothing like a real tree in the house, that is, while it's still fresh. By January 1, the thing is crackling dry and you can't get it out of the house fast enough.
Over the years, we have gradually scaled back on the size of our Christmas trees. The house is still pretty (maybe even prettier) and not so much work. I can remember only one time when we didn't put up a tree (we were traveling or something) and it was too sad.
So the tree is non-negotiable. Over 50+ years, I've collected boxes of heirloom ornaments and decorations, so carefully packed away each year. I hope the girls will treasure them someday.
In other rituals, we still write a Christmas letter to send with our cards, another old-fashioned thing. I love getting those from other people, and appreciate how challenging they are to write. There's a fine line between "news" and "bragging" especially when it comes to grand kids. Ha!
On the cookie front, I'm falling behind. By now, there's usually a stockpile started in the freezer, ready to decorate. But again, why go crazy? None of us need that much sugar.
I'd really like to perfect a biscotti recipe, and then make it my signature Christmas cookie--something that folks remember. Quality over quantity is the new Christmas game.
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