In a Christmas long past, this was my Dad's Christmas present. Children frequently got just one present in those days. This one was beloved by him, and is treasured by us. Wear shows that the toy was played with. The antlers being intact show that it was given careful attention.
In less distant Christmases Past, we went out and hauled trees down off the hill at the Christmas tree farm. The chosen tree was always too big and had to be cut down to fit in the living room. It usually had a crooked trunk and had to be wired in the corner, because it would fall over otherwise. We had bright lights,silver garlands, family heirloom ornaments, icicles, and best yet ornaments made by the children. It was wonderful!
Now it is Christmas Present. I wanted the smell of pine in the house, but no way did I want to cut down a tree. Ed trudged through the garden to a white pine to cut some branches. He came back with fragrant pine, asparagus berries and rose hips. It's a small arrangement, but for us and for this year it's perfect! The family will be together tomorrow. That's the important thing.
And what of Christmas Future? Who knows?
What we have now is the present, and Ed and I wish everyone the Merriest Christmas ever!
