Traditions with a Twist

(above photo ~ with flash ~ the colors are totally distorded ~ yuck)

Traditions, they often change over time. I've read many a bLog in recent days on this topic so I figured I'd join the crowd by writing one of my own. Besides, Jim wrote me and told me that I HAVE to write a bLog today! He can be so bossy! LOL

Throughout the years I've adopted new traditions. I've taken note of the special things my friends and family have done and chosen to make some of them a part of my life. Ann, for example, serves Chili on tree decorating day. Well, I've never had a special food for that day so this year (and for many years to come), we'll have Chili too. It's not so much the change in our traditions anymore as it is the birth of new ones that keeps me excited this time of year.

Last year I gave a lot of thought to the "gifts" I gave to those I care most about. Perhaps the best gift you can give someone is to share things that are meaningful to you. With that said, a new tradition began...

Typically traditions are passed down from one generation to the next, I choose to take that a step further. I believe we can pass them from friend to friend.

So this year, instead of stressing over finding the "perfect gift", just share a piece yourself. That's all anyone really ever wants!

The Pictures (above and below ~ one with natural lighting, one with a flash): This is a wreath I made over 25 years ago from pine cones that I had collected. As long as it continues to hold together, it will be hung every year (just like it's been hung since the year I made it). Everything on it, including the ribbon, is what I originally placed on the wreath. It's a little worn, but I do believe it's holding up quite nicely.