Christmas is a special time for me. I remember looking forward to Santa’s visits as a child and treasure the true meaning of the day as an adult.

The nativity scene is the first decoration I put out. My father made a manger for me many years ago and I bought the Lefton Christopher Collection in Williamsburg the first-year Wayne and I were married. There is something about the reason for the scene and beautiful detailed artwork of the collection.The Baby Jesus is the first to be set into place, the remaining participants delicately situated around Him.

I love listening to the Christmas carols – “Little Drummer Boy,” “Oh, Holy Night,” “Did You Hear What I Hear.” I especially like, Faith Hill’s “A Baby Changes Everything,” Neil Diamond’s “Christmas Prayers,” and Andrea Bocelli’s “The Lord’s Prayer.” They express the meaning of the season – Jesus’ birth, family and remembering those who are no longer with us and of course, our Lord. The grandchildren are usually in Christmas programs at our church and they are always a joy.

I love decorating the house, even watching the Hallmark movies. I put up five different trees, drape garlands over doors and windows and spread bright red poinsettias throughout the house. I set my village upon the mantle next to the biggest tree in the den.

Yes, I said five trees. In addition to the bigger tree in the den, I have my “wine” tree in the kitchen; my “nature” tree in the Florida room; a tall pencil tree next to the front door and my “snow baby” tree in our bedroom. There are smaller trees at the bottom of the front steps and on either side of the back door but who’s counting.

I tried to take a picture of the entire snow baby tree but the individual pictures are more precious.

Wayne and I make it a point to visit the graves of my father and his parents and leave a single rose to let them know we think of them everyday. Do you do anything to remember your loved ones?

Do you enjoy the decorations? Have any special traditions?

Christmas seems to come faster now that I’m an adult, but I still treasure the day and time with my family.

I hope everyone has a Merry Christmas with their loved ones.