One of my earliest memories is hiding UNDER the couch to catch Santa leaving my present. Singular. We received ONE present from Santa, underwear and fruit in our stockings, and a nice outfit from our Mom. The gift from Santa was never wrapped but left under the tree. The magical flurry of Christmas morning unwrapping happened at my grandparents. Each child received a gift from each adult/household. Occasionally, my Mom would sneak in an extra present for us. My grandparents packed us into their tiny living room where we oohed and awed, taking turns unwrapping. I cherish those memories sitting on my knees, straining to see everyone’s loot. So many sweater specials from the local department store were exchanged!
As a wee child, I wanted to give everyone a gift. My mother indulged me and allowed me to wrap up my toys and give them away. I think this was the start of both my humanitarian work AND my thrifting commitment. My Aunt Renee was newly married into the family so I gave her my prized toy. I still remember where she was sitting and the look on her face when she opened up my much-loved present. She was so gracious and I had to love her immediately.
Through the years, Aunt Renee and Uncle Jim had a reputation in the family for wrapping the most beautiful gifts. You know, like the ones you once could choose at the department store wrapping counter by number. They included foil-embossed papers or bright colors with glitter, and always a big bow with a decorative element that we liked to call “gift ornaments.” I remember poinsettias, paper cutouts, and actual baubles for the tree. I always saved these, along with the wrapping paper. I truly enjoyed their wrapping artistry as much as the gift.
This Christmas, I was inspired to make some small ornaments. I didn’t know exactly how I would use them. I gave some away; I sold some. It wasn’t until they were made that I realized I had made some gift ornaments, manifested from my childhood memories. A friend bought some and sent me a photo of how she used them and then she hung them on her tree after Christmas morning.
Aunt Renee and Uncle Jim would approve!
FaberSmith Press & Pottery 