The joy of trimming the tree for Christmas
Advertisement
Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 11/12/2020 (906 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
The idea of decorating a tree for Christmas is reported to have originated in Germany and dates back to the 16th century. Fruit and nuts are said to have been some of the first items to adorn trees at Christmas. Over time, the tradition of hanging items on a tree for the season was brought indoors.
As the custom became more popular and years passed, the items used to decorate trees expanded to include candles, wafers and roses made of coloured paper. Pastries, cut into shapes of angels, flowers, hearts and stars were also used as ornaments. By the late 1800s, glass balls were all the rage.
Getting together with family and friends to trim the Christmas tree is a tradition loved by many. Over the centuries, ornaments chosen to decorate trees have continued to evolve and it is not unusual for families to have more than one Christmas tree in their home, decorated in different themes.
Hand-made decorations, items purchased to celebrate special occasions or ornaments passed down through the generations can have great sentimental value and, as time passes, become cherished family heirlooms.
Treasured ornaments or decorations can bring a smile to your face or a tear to your eye, as they bring back thoughts of loved ones or a special time in one’s life.
Personally, I have a few ornaments that I purchased while travelling many years ago and the fond memories that come to mind make my time away seem like just yesterday.
I also have Christmas decorations that belonged to my grandparents. Whenever I look at these ornaments I am filled with nostalgia. Memories of my childhood and the time spent with my family bring joy to my heart.
As special as these ornaments are to me, I can feel my excitement building as I unpack the box and take time to find the perfect place on the tree for each and every one.
The emotions that such small items can evoke give people the gift of going back in time, adding to the magic of Christmas.
Perhaps this holiday season you can consider the idea of giving the gift of an ornament to that special someone and create a memory, for Christmases yet to come.
Stay safe and have a merry Christmas!
Cindy Murdoch is a community correspondent for Transcona. She can be contacted at reflections8@shaw.ca
Cindy Murdoch
Transcona community correspondent
Cindy Murdoch is a community correspondent for Transcona. She can be contacted at reflections8@shaw.ca