Creating a Memorable Holiday

“Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house . . . ” Let us allow Clement C. Moore to inspire us with his classic children’s Christmas story to begin our preparations for this holiday season. It is these preparations that enve-lope our families and loved ones with the spirit of the season.
Envisioning the faces of children when eyes light up at the sight of Christmas lights outlining our homes, and lawn decorations reminiscent of the elusive Santa and his eight tiny reindeer, we begin our plans. Exterior decorations can range from the classic wreaths, garlands, and luminaries, to garish light-up figures. The choices in exterior lighting are overwhelming–from the traditional C-9 multicolored lights, to the ultimate “icicle” lights.
The interior of the home can be festooned with garlands, ribbons, and candles. Collectibles can decorate the home as well as fill the “wish” list. There are the elfish faced felt Annalee dolls, Santas, mice, and elves. Fontainini nativity fig-ures and sets are a wonderful “hands-on” experience to share with children, especially since it is an heirloom collecti-ble also. Start a tradition, or add to a collection of Department 56 lighted houses, with exciting new pieces for each vil-lage.
Our most often recollected holiday vision, however, is the focal point of Yuletide cheer–the Christmas tree. The Christ-mas tree can be artificial (a good idea for anyone wanting their tree to stay up from Thanksgiving through New Years), fresh cut, or a living tree. Trees, real or artificial, come in all sizes, shapes, colors, and varieties. Decorations for the tree can come from the heart, the tree can be as showcase of design, or anything else in between.
After the house is decorated inside and out, the tree is all aglow with gifts nestled underneath, the table elegantly set, and the stockings have been “Hung by the chimney with care,” it is time for families and friends to arrive for a very “Happy Christmas to All . . . ”
The Christmas shop at Green Thumb Garden Center is open daily 9-5:30. 23734 Newhall Ave., Old Town Newhall