The 45th Tree Decorating Party

I don't know if it was quite the 45th version of the family's tree-decorating get-together, but it was close to that. What with kids' jobs and commitments, we met at an odd hour — just after noon on Saturday — instead of the typical late afternoon. It was so early that no one was tempted to drink wine. However, yummy snacks were consumed with gusto, especially by the bald, bearded blogger.

Below, Jonathan and friend look on while Danica adjusts the star. The lights have already been strung, and ribbon has been wrapped around the boughs. The ornaments will be hung next and last.

The Ornaments

As is the custom, we opened the box of my mother's smocked balls. She smocked one per year for many years. I chose the red one. 

Jonathan hung one of the smocked ball. Wouldn't my mother be chuffed to think that the great grandson whom she never met would been adding a piece of her handiwork to the tree, perhaps 30 years or even longer after she created it? Since Mom can't exult in that, I will in her place.

Meanwhile, Sue availed herself of a cuppa, and Shauna found a moment to give her boy a snuggle.

I almost forgot this 6 second clip of the decorated tree flashing its lights. Sorry it's crooked. I know how to edit photos, but videos are beyond me.