Let Your Heart Be Light

To those of us of a certain age, this box might be a familiar sight:

This box of ornaments, which sold for $1.59 back in the day, is one of my most prized possessions. In the 1960s, my grandfather owned a hardware store in which he also sold lots of odds and ends–toys, sewing notions, and Christmas decorations. A favorite Saturday jaunt was to go to “Pepa’s store” for a toy and a visit. When he sold it, we bought a few of these Shiny Brite boxes, and my mom passed them down to me. I put them on my tree every year, as reminders of my beloved grandparents and long ago Christmas Eves as their house.

My sister and me with our Pepa behind his old hardware store.

While I hang the ornaments, I either listen to or sing (badly and off-key) “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” because it so reminds me of them. They have been gone for decades, but remain a comforting presence, particularly at this time of year.

A couple of my favorites

And so, as you hang your shining stars upon the highest bough (or light your menorah) may you be surrounded by those you love, whether in body or spirit.

Happy holidays and all the best this New Year.

♥ ♥ ♥