One of my earliest childhood (holiday) memories includes making the trek to the tree farm to chop down our Christmas tree.  My brother and I would ride with my mom, and I can still feel the tangible excitement in the air, & the bump in the dirt road.

Simple Christmas | Christmas Decorating | Perfectly Imperfect

We would scour the rows of trees until the perfect one was found, and after a little sawing, the tree was loaded up and brought into our living room.

I remember watching my mom pay attention to every detail, and helping her hang the tiny porcelain ornaments.  I think sometimes she might be a little sad when she sees our tree decorated a little differently than hers (she’s a colored light lady).

But what I hope she notices is that she raised another mama who (hopefully) is helping create those memories for her little ones.  She taught me about the Hope of Christmas…

Simple Christmas | Christmas Decorating | Perfectly Imperfect

and of the Magic it brings to families everywhere.

Simple Christmas | Christmas Decorating | Perfectly Imperfect

And I’m not sure if I’ve ever told her, but every. single. year. as I string the lights or hang the ornaments or bake the same cut-out decorated cookies she made for me, I am overwhelmed with my love for her.

I’m crying a little now just thinking of her, of what she means to me.

Simple Christmas | Christmas Decorating | Perfectly Imperfect

 I hold close the memories I’m making with my little ones, as I know there will be a year in our future where I may have to put up this tree alone (sorry for the year away in college, mom!)

But with a little luck and a lot of Blessing, I’ll be fortunate enough to watch my little ones have little ones of their own.

Simple Christmas | Christmas Decorating | Perfectly Imperfect

And I’ll get to experience the Magic all over again.

 Merry Christmas and lots of magical wishes for you and yours this Holiday season.