Transitions, no matter how big or small, create an emotional response. As I walked through our dining room (I pass through this area many times a day), I paused to enjoy the view. We have a large picture window that faces out to the backyard. Each change of season gives me a different, unique view, as it beckons me to take the time to observe what is going on in my little patch of nature. More often than not though, I’m pausing to look at the display in this area of the dining room. It creates in me a special kind of happiness.
This spot is one of the areas in our home where I let my creative juices flow. I enjoy seeing what story I can weave as I put together a display on the hutch and surrounding shelves.
On this day, I was feeling the tug of wanting to hold onto this story a little bit longer.
There are many memories in these trinkets, displayed within some of my favorite colors of the year.
When I look at the sampler on the wall, next to the hutch, I wonder what was my mother-in-law contemplating as she embroidered this fall scene.
Was Grandma Meissner excited on the day that she picked out her wedding crystal and did she remember that day each time that she set the table with this bit of sparkle?
The little pumpkin teapot along with its sugar and creamer, will always make me smile when they are unpacked to decorate for Fall. I remember the day that I received them from my catalog order. I was 20 years old, anticipating our firstborn’s arrival in the early spring. This was the first thing that I finally was able to add that I hadn’t crafted myself, to our Fall decorations. The first cup of tea that I poured for myself, was delightful. The set is now chipped, a little worn for wear, sort of like me, but still holds great value in the memories that it invokes.
I have fun imagining what my husband Tim was like when he was little. He has shared with me that he remembers having Sunday dinners at Grandma and Grandpa Meissner’s, eating off of the plates that match the teacups that are hanging from the little hooks on the hutch. Did he ever sneak a sip of coffee from these cups? Pieces are missing from this favorite set of mine, did little Tim’s hands contribute to the demise of some of these pieces?
On top of the hutch, a hutch that was passed down to me from my mother, I smile as I look at the birdhouse displayed up there. Our son Travis gave that to me as a gift, knowing that I enjoy watching the birds that come to visit our yard. It never has made it outside, rather, it too has been decorated for the seasons and arranged in various areas of our home.
We may feel the tug of wanting to cling to the memories that come forth when we look at these material treasures in our homes. Holding fast to where we have been may mean that we will miss out on what is yet to come.
Moving into the upcoming season will also invoke special memories as treasures are unpacked and worked into our seasonal displays. New memories and special times will add their threads to the tapestry of our lives. There is much to be thankful for.
What are some of your favorite memories that come to mind when you unpack your seasonal decorations?
The way you write makes me feel like I’m sitting inside your cozy cottage sipping hot tea while you share your memory/treasures 🏡
Each year as I hang my scarecrow wreath my mother and I made together, it warms my heart as I remember the time we shared. There was a lot of laughter…I’m actually surprised it got completed as we were goofing off
What a treasured memory that is Mariah. I can just hear the giggles coming from you and your mother. Thank you for your kind words in regard to my writing. I want people to feel as if they are sitting with me, sharing special times together.
Your lovely descriptions brought me back into your cozy and inviting cottage. As you know, Mom marked the seasons and holidays with decorations that meant something to her. Like you, I’ve carried on that tradition. My new favorite fall decorations are some pumpkins my close friend and I made out of colorful beads and buttons and little personal treasures. I also love to watch the birds in my yard and in the front yard of my neighbor across the street, especially when the leaves fall off his two trees.
Deborah, how wonderful those new fall decorations are with those treasured memories of creating them with your friends!
Mom always made a comfortable, pretty home for us, making it easier for us to follow her example. I know that each one of the female siblings, although our styles are very different, has done the same thing in their homes. Jeff, in marrying Carole, has been blessed with someone who also has a knack for creating a welcoming home.