We used to go to my grandparents in Colorado for X-mas, so many of my best holiday memories are from there. There was no TV and only a crackly radio station or two, so you spent the holidays playing in the snow, in group board & card games in front of the fire, or doing puzzles.
Rather than sending my 70 something Grandfather into the woods alone, Grandma would order a tree that came in a 14" x 14" x 8'-0" box so part of the holiday tradition was the tree "unfolding" as it slowly regained its natural shape. Now we either cut a tree from the national forest or Mom and I go on "stealth missions" and bring home a tree whose origins are best left unstated ;-).
One year I was sick so I had to stay home with Grandma instead of going skiing. We ended up at the florist's shop where I found a reindeer (that was as tall as my feverish 6 or 7 year old self) made out of grapevines. It was placed in the snow by the driveway to "greet" the returning skiers, then moved around the house to windows, decks, etc. Later, I wrapped it in white xmas lights, and it is still part of Xmas 20+ years later, despite the dog trying to punish me for something by chewing the lights a couple years ago.
I think you should make him a hornyment. :funn:
You mean I coulda been rich all this time?!!
We listened to Brenda Lee sing Christmas carols and danced after "dinner".
