iRelle

A couple of years back, around this time of year, I read an editorial in a magazine. It was the story of a woman unwrapping a Christmas decoration on Christmas morning, and the memories and atmosphere that became a part of that particular gift. I think giving decorations is a fabulous idea – not only is it practical, pretty and likely to be appreciated (yada yada, all the usual prerequisites for choosing a gift) but it also has a personal quality. With the plethora of decorations out there, there’s something for every taste – you’re bound to find something that has a special significance between you and the giftee. Even if there isn’t any ‘story’ behind your bauble or trinket, the recipient will forever after connect the decoration with you in some way. Pulling down the box of decorations to trim the tree (or the chimney!) will not only bring on the warm fuzzy feelings, it will be filled with memories of people and good times. As each individual bauble falls from its wrapping and is held up to the light, some far-off recollection or tiny spark of emotion will sparkle out with it. And if your friends’ memories aren’t that great, you can always find a small space somewhere to jot the date and your name.

Today’s photo is of some of the set of decorations that a friend gave Mum, I think before she was married. They’re the most precious of our decorations, and are lovingly wrapped in tissue paper before they’re stored at the end of each year. Unwrapping them is special, even to me – and I’ve never met the person who gave them to Mum. There’s something so much more precious in knowing that they came from someone who cared and chose them especially. A generation on, they’re still giving pleasure!