As the days get shorter and the air turns crisp, the time comes to decorate for the holidays. The perfect tree is selected and the ornaments are taken down from the attic. The tradition of decorating the Christmas tree begins.

Trees were first brought inside at Christmas in the 1600s. The early ornaments were nuts, berries, and fruit, symbols of plenty. Candles and silver tinsel added much-needed light to winter rooms. Handmade ornaments were lovingly prepared and became cherished keepsakes.

Just as it was then, each family today has its own Christmas tree traditions. Some use decorations passed down from previous generations, others are unique to that family… delicate glass balls brought from the homeland generations ago… a glitter-covered baked-dough star made years ago by a child who is now an adult… brightly colored glass balls bought for the family’s first Christmas.

Today, strings of lights give trees a warm glow, and plastic tinsel reflects glimmers of light into the room, just as the pure silver strips used to do.

The custom of decorating the tree and the fond memories it brings to mind is part of what makes Christmas a favorite time of year for so many.