25 Christmases On Our Family Tree

Our boys started our tree decorating this year.

The  angel topper from my first away-from-home tree, 1986, Clark Air Base dormitory while, stationed in the Philippines. 

She still gets a spot near the top out of respect.

I started collecting ornaments (or items I deemed ornaments) from every where I went on active duty.  There are memories here from: San Antonio, Clark Air Base in the Philippines, Canada, Mexico, Guam, Korea, Hawaii, Iraklion Air Station on Crete, Ankara Turkey, Egypt, Italy, Portugal, Germany, France and all the other places I visited.

 After hubby and I married in 1996; we added the items made by hand from our children while they were in diapers

Others were made by them in school.

 Others are from the different tastes of my decorating whims and fancies like: unicorns, butterflies, dragonflies, ribbons, bows, cartoon characters, rocking horses, wooden ornaments, bisque, bamboo, military inspired.  We never throw away any ornament unless it is broken glass -- all others are revamped to be included still because they are a part of our history.

Each year, it is fun to unwrap these gifts from our past with our children.  I love the questions they ask and tell them where the decorations come from -- either a exotic place or a Wal-Mart in Germany; the looks on their faces are usually quite priceless. 

Later if my new camera works well with me; I will add another picture when the sun sets for more natural lighting. Tomorrow the kids and I will make some more ornaments to add to our forever collection.

Merry Christmas!