Ornament Exchange

So this weekend, I participated in a cookie and ornament exchange.  I thought since my cookie exchange post was soo long.  I would write a different post regarding the ornament exchange.

I had high hopes of making an ornament to give out but time really wasn't on my side.  It's normally busy for social workers around this time and with it being dark when I get off, I have no motivation to do anything but SLEEP!

So as I went searching for an ornament that would be "that" perfect one.  I found one, well it was a three in one.  It was three different ornaments that said, believe, hope, and peace.  It was silver and glittery.  I really liked it that I bought the set to give one to my mom, dad, and sister in their stockings.

So we picked gifts based on first names.  As I sat and waited for my name to be called, I had my eye on this box.

As I was waiting and watching the other ladies open their gifts, I was praying that no one would pick this box.  It just reminded me of Christmas.  I acted just like a little kid, I helped the process along.  Until it was my turn, they said who's next?  Me!  I shouted so excitedly. 

I opened it up and there were two ornaments.  A snowman with a pie in hand as a symbol of our cookie exchange and a pickle.

Attached to the pickle was...

The Christmas Pickle Story

Which read: In Old World Germany, the last decoration placed on the Christmas Tree was always a pickle...carefully hidden deep among the branches.  Legend has it that whoever found it on Christmas morning was blessed with a year of good fortune and a special gift.

I love traditions.  It's times like these that I really wish I was married with kids.  This year I've been finding so many fun crafts, activities and traditions to do and start.  But it's no fun by yourself.

If you are wondering where to get a pickle for your family, try Pier 1 imports.

**Merry Christmas**