Walking into Nanny's place always sets the mood - with her artist's eye she creates beautiful vignettes everywhere you look. Here - sparkling crystal stars suspended over a peaceful nativity scene. There - a charming village nestled in a valley of "snow". Everywhere - fluffy white owls, adorable polar bears, and pictures of Bob and Todd as children on Christmas. And Owen loves the dollhouse Nanny and Allen found in an antiques store and lovingly spruced up and decorated with furniture and handmade rugs.
Maria, Todd, and Hannah were waiting for our arrival and we settled down to exchange a few carefully selected, and much appreciated, gifts. Nanny gave Cearra a pair of diamond earrings that had been in the family for four generations, and pictures of the women who had worn them through the years. Nanny also gave Bob and Todd a framed composition with pictures of their great grandfather Duke, who served in WWI, and great uncle Bill, who was killed by sniper fire in WWII while trying to assist a fallen comrade; along with letters from President Johnson and the Army Chaplin recognizing their service and sacrifice.
Owen got a few wonderful games and toys, including a Spidey scooter and matching accessories.
And what kind of holiday would it be without poking a little fun at Uncle Todd for his love of the Pittsburgh "Squeelers" ...
Nanny's mother was a wonderful cook, and she baked everything from scratch. Her holiday frosted sugar cookies were childhood favorites of Bob, so we set out to recreate a few batches. Maria and Nanny taught Owen how to roll and cut out the dough (Cearra supervised from her perch in the kitchen), then we gathered round the dining room table to ice and decorate them.
Bellies full from the delicious turkey dinner Nanny had prepared (not to mention quite a few sugar cookies) we tackled Arts & Crafts next! A few clear globes, metallic paints and a swirl of rubbing alcohol, and ta-da ... shimmering ornaments. Owen really enjoyed making these - may become a holiday tradition.
We spent the rest of our visit relaxing and just enjoying each other's company. Thank you Mom for a wonderful weekend and celebration of the true gifts of Christmas!
1 comment:
Your words are beautiful and so appreciated. What I had tried to explain to you about making Christmas 'different', more memorable... well, you captured in your words and pictures. It was the best Christmas I can remember since I had 'little one's of my own at home'. Christmas is: children, family, love, stories, memories, cookies, lights, and of course remembering the Giver of these precious gifts, and His greatest gift of all, the birth of His Son.
Tidings of comfort and Joy to all! love, Mom/Nanny
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