Deck the Halls

We have a little family tradition when it comes to Christmas decorations. Our family tree is decorated with a mismatch of items, collected over the years from places we have visited. It means that our whole tree is a map of memories, which we can revisit every time we unpack our decorations. I am determined to continue this tradition with my own little family one day and have already started collecting: papier-mache baubles haggled-for in Indian markets, a mexican painted heart bought on a lunch-break from a film-shoot in Whittier, Los Angeles, a porcelain stocking picked by the Ginge in Saltaire, a soldier in his Busbee from my childhood tree, a one-eyed robin called Nelson, whom I bought to cheer myself up after a dentist appointment last year. I also have my Nutcracker, bought for me when I was three years old, by my Grandmother on my first visit to  Liberty. Christmas for me is a time to take stock of what you have, particularly family and friends. This has officially started in our house and is making me so happy. Anyway, enough of the sentimental journey, it's time for a mid-morning snack; a satsuma, some German spiced biscuits and a cup of hot, mulled blackcurrant cordial. Do you have any traditions at Christmas? I'd love to hear about them!