American author, painter, illustrator, Norman Percevel Rockwell, was born February 1894 in New York City, N.Y.
I read where one of his paintings, “Saying Grace,” sold for $46 million at an auction. Incredible, to say the least.
Mr. Rockwell is best known for his covers for the journal, The Saturday Evening Post.
His family spent holidays in the countryside and, from an early age, the artist developed an idyllic vision of rural life.
It was his warm festive scenes of Christmas that captured the hearts of those seeking a quintessential holiday celebration.
Most of the human population envisions a Norman Rockwell picturesque Christmas.
You know, the one with snow falling Christmas Eve. Chestnuts roasting on an open fire. Halls decked with boughs of holly and everyone dancing merrily. Yuletide carols being sung by a choir. “O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree! How are thy leaves so verdant!” What does that even mean? I asked Merriam Webster. It means green in tint and color.
Let me take you to a time long ago. My husband and I were newlyweds.
Exuberant, we embraced the warmth and cheer of our first Christmas together. Fa-la-la-la-la, la-la-la-la.
Certainly, we had our idyllic vision and expectation of the jubilant holiday that was upon us.
A honey hickory ham, creamed potatoes, corn pudding, yeast rolls and a homemade fruitcake (please not one from the store) for dessert sounded great for the special meal.
I made that up. I can’t remember what was on the menu, but I am sure I had one (ha). Also, I don’t like corn pudding and I am still trying to master the skills I learned in Grandma Haylsett’s roll-making 101 classes. The memories of her expertise, skills and patience will linger forever in my mind.
There wasn’t a tree to nestle a few thoughtful, wrapped gifts (are you surprised?) under. We had to get busy, busy, busy! If you read my last column, you learned I am exceptional at procrastinating.
Dash away! Clark (I mean Daniel) and I headed to the great outdoors for a real country experience of choosing and cutting our own tree. Over the river and through the woods to grandmother’s house we go — literally.
Sleigh bells ring, are you listening?
In the lane, snow is glistening
A beautiful sight, we’re happy tonight
Walking in a winter wonderland.
“There it is! The Seay family Christmas tree!”
“Isn’t it a little big?”
“It’s just full.”
Clark did remember the saw. The tree was cut and tied atop our Honda Accord. Off to our small, yet cozy, abode we went.
Struggling to get the tree inside, we assessed the size of the verdant, white pine. It was just a few feet too tall to fit between our floor and ceiling.
“So, what does one do when the tree is too big?”
“Just cut the top off!”
We were young and inexperienced. All our Christmas “bush” needed was a little love. The lights, decorations, tinsel and star made it look lovely.
Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes, corn and store-bought rolls made it to our dinner table. Oh, yes, my mother-in-law made and provided the best fruitcake ever!
I will say the thoughtful gift of a blender to me from my husband wasn’t what I had in mind. But it was purchased, wrapped and given with much love. He received an Uncle Henry hunting knife from me!
High expectations, strained relationships, unexpected heartache — you fill in the blank — all can put a damper on the best of plans.
“I just don’t feel like celebrating,” has been said by us all.
I know I have said those words.
Remember, we do have reason to celebrate!
“God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen,” one of the oldest Christmas carols, originated in 16th century England. The earliest known printed edition was published in the year 1760.
The lyrics are right on point of why we celebrate Christmas and certainly bring me comfort and joy. Allow the words of eternal hope, Christ, to speak peace to your heart.
God rest ye merry gentlemen
Let nothing you dismay
For Jesus Christ our Saviour
Was born on Christmas Day
To save us all from Satan’s pow’r
When we were gone astray
O tidings of comfort and joy
Comfort and joy
O tidings of comfort and joy.
Merry Christmas to all!
Thanks enjoyed the post