The Stockings Were Hung

Traditions encourage connections between generations. How many of us hung stockings on Christmas Eve when we were little and now we help our children and grandchildren do the same? How many of us knew there would be a giant navel orange in the toe of our stocking and would have been sorely disappointed if for some reason it wasn’t there? Sharing traditions we learned from our parents and grandparents builds bonds with our children and grandchildren and gives them a connection to their roots.

Why do we have a certain recipe on Thanksgiving even though no one really loves it anymore? Because grandma ALWAYS made it that’s why, and when we eat it the flavors remind us of her. Why do we watch the same Christmas movies every year even though we can quote them word for word? Because that’s what we did with our grandparents and parents and continuing that tradition with the next generation helps the family roots grow deep.

It reminds me of a quote I heard long ago. I’m sure I don’t remember it perfectly but it basically said:

there are two things we can give our children: one is roots, the other, wings.

I have contemplated NOT doing stockings for my grown children this year but they WILL be hanging and filled on Christmas morning because that’s what we do. They are all adults and while most of them are still at home I don’t see them as much as I would like. They all work full time and are preparing for their own homes and families. I will keep them under my roof and under my wing as long as I can, encouraging their roots to grow deep; but when the time comes I trust I have nurtured them and given them the ability to spread their wings and soar.

Roots and Wings. Simple traditions foster both so we will continue with our family stockings.

The Stockings Were Hung is available now in my shop. You can find it here.

This is another design that combines colored pencils with simple embroidery. It is sized to fit in a standard 8″ x 10″ frame so once the handwork is done finishing is quick and easy. Perhaps this would make a great addition to your holiday decorating? Or maybe it would be the perfect gift for someone in your family?

May you be blessed this joyous Christmas season and may you always remember the Reason for the Season, Jesus Christ our Savior and Redeemer.

Michelle