Monday, November 30, 2020

Garage Santa



We made it thru the holiday and I am doing OK.

As difficult as this year has been, March did bring us a little miracle when we welcomed a new granddaughter into our lives.  We have not been able to see her as often as we wanted, not hold her and spoil her like we did with our others, or be the grandparents we were when we were younger.  We did do one thing, though, we grew old and our ages have made us fit perfectly into the role Mr and Mrs. Santa Claus. 

When my youngest daughter was four and a student in the nursery school where I taught,  she sat on Santa’s lap, not having any idea that it was her dad.  This year she asked us to recreate the scene with her eight month old daughter, Scarlet.  With the help of the Amazon elves and two day shipping, we transformed ourselves into the jolly old fella and his no name wife.  Because of the times, people can not come into our house, so the garage would have to do. I spent hours trying to convert walls covered in cords, shovels, and garden tools into a Christmas scene.  I was able to hide some debris with lighted trees, wrapping paper and decorations.  It turned out OK if you don’t look too closely. I greeted them in my lovely red dress adorned with white faux fur that shed everywhere I went and got a big smile from the baby and her mom and dad.  Then the moment came and Santa appeared with a big Ho Ho Ho. Her smile got even bigger.  Life sure can be sweet sometimes.


                             Santa and my daughter at 4 
 

Some years later, no longer needing a white wig or beard.  


I am reminded:

There are so many reasons to be grateful

There is still joy

Sometimes precious memories can have an encore 

Garages should be cleaned out annually


78 comments:

  1. Your granddaughter - is so precious. So are your memories of time past. Very uplifting in today's environment. Love it. sandie

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    1. Thank you, Sandi. I am watching all the Christmas favorites and eating chocolate and am looking forward to better times. I am already planning my gardens. I hope all is well with you and your loved ones.

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  2. How wonderful that you were able to do this in these uncertain times. I often think of you over there and hope that things go smoothly in January. I finished Mary Trump's book last night. No wonder he is so disfunctional.

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    1. It was fun and I was so glad that we could do this for my daughter and granddaughter. I believe that where there is a will, there is a way.

      We are now looking to the future and want so much for 2020 and all that it brought to just go away. We need hope and decency and pray that it comes in 2021. It will be up to each and every one of us in the US to make that happen. Cruel, dishonest tweets might still be coming but, hopefully, they won’t be a headline any longer.

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  3. Hi, Arleen!

    I have tears in my eyes after viewing these pictures old and new. What a blessing to be able to recreate that vintage scene in which your youngest daughter sat on Santa's lap not realizing it was her daddy. Your granddaughter Scarlet is adorable, and the picture of the three of you posing against a festive holiday backdrop is magical. I never would have dreamed the set was created in your garage. It looks like the holiday wonderland at Macy's! :)

    It's great to see you smiling, Arleen. It seems like you and I and tens of millions of other Americans have much for which to be thankful at this point in time with so many women being tapped for leadership positions by President-elect Biden. I hope the spirit of Christmas continues to snowball for you and your loved ones as the holiday season rolls on.

    Have a splendid week, dear friend Arleen!

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    1. Oh, you are so sweet, Shady, and you make me feel so good. Having to quarantine has been difficult on us all, but having a chance at pure joy has been even more joyful. I cherish those moments. We have to find the ways to bring it to others and share all the good will we can. You shared your kindness with me with your words and I sincerely appreciate it.

      Stay well and keep on playing happy tunes.

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  4. OH MY GOODNESS! How wonderful is that?! You both look great as Mr AND MRS. Claus. You see-you do have a name!!!! It is wonderful that you were able to recreate such a special memory. Who knew, back then, that someday that four year old would have babies of her own to sit on Santa's knee?!
    Life is wonderful in spite of the downs--there are many more UP moments if we look for them. xo Diana

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    1. Since even the reindeers have names, Mrs. Claus deserves her own identity. I have decided to call her Mildred, Milly for short. We all know that if it wasn’t for her, nothing would get done and Christmas might not happen till February.

      I had so much fun with this event and although I know that Scarlet is too young to remember this, her mom and dad will and that memory might be relived again when Scarlet has her children. We will leave the uniform to them in our will.

      I hope you are doing OK, Diana. You have a lot on your plate right now and know that you are in my thoughts.

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  5. What a dear little baby! And a great Christmas scene. I hope this becomes your card. The family will love it.

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    1. Scarlet was the gift of 2020. We haven’t decided on a card yet, but one of the many pictures that I took last week might just be the one.

      I wish you and yours a healthy and joyful season.

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  6. I hope your garage becomes Santa's photo shop for years to come. How clever of your daughter to think of this, in the Nick of time. Scarlet is one great young woman.

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    1. Yes, Joanne, in the Nick of time. That was good!

      I would love to recreate it for years to come, but although Mrs. Claus may stay the same forever, I, unfortunately, won’t.

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    2. As long as you show up for the picture, you will be Mrs. Claus.

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    3. Just hoping that next year we will be able to do it inside and garage redecorating won’t be needed.

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  7. Very, very sweet. And I echo Joanne's clever and entirely appropriate comment and wishes.

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    1. I love puns, and Joanne got in a good one.

      Take care, dear Sue, and keep sending us pictures of your lovely spring in your wonderful land.

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  8. Well done. I'm sure that photo will be treasured for ever.

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    1. Yes, it will, Cro. My daughter wants another photo session with Scarlet in her Christmas dress, so I did not put the costumes and the white wig away. I truly wish that Mrs. Claus had a better hairdo.

      With your beautiful grandsons with you this year, I am sure that your holidays will be merry.

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  9. How wonderful! That picture is precious and should be framed! You two are obviously wonderful grandparents and your gorgeous little Scarlet looks thrilled! Don't you love making memories!

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    1. Making special memories with loved ones is worth more than all the gold in California (Gatlin Brothers song).

      Stay well, dear Bonnie, and I hope that there will be sweet memories to be made for you during the coming holidays.

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  10. What a brilliant idea and excellent execution!! Oh, it must have been so much fun to do all the decorating and get all dressed up ... and so lovely to see your little granddaughter. Soon, Arleen, soon ... families will be able to be together again.

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    1. I can’t wait for that time when I can hug my loved ones again. We are all desperate for that touch, something that we used to just take for granted. Never again.

      I think of you often, Jenny, and I hope that there will be some joy for you and your family during the upcoming Christmas holidays.

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  11. I just love this post and the photos. Actions with loving intent are the moments that make life worth living. And, of course, getting the garage cleaned up is the frosting on the cake.

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    1. Like everyone, shared family memories are what connect us and strengthen the love and joy we feel for each other. “Remember When” times are always the best.

      I have to admit that when cleaning the garage, I hid a lot of stuff in my car which I will have to deal with soon when I need to drive it. Right now, though, out of sight, out of mind.

      I hope you and yours, Colette, have safe and happy holidays ahead.

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  12. That is absolutely a Priceless Image and recreation, you make splendid Mr. & Mrs Clause and that Grandbaby, well, she certainly steals the Show and is comfortable in front of the Lens, isn't she?! Is that a Pandemic Mask Mrs. Clause is clutching, to give credence to the Year this was taken in? *winks* As for your transformation, Bravo, I couldn't manage that in either the Garage or the RV Garage Spaces right now... they're still Gauntlets after The Big Move! Indeed Storage/Garage Spaces should be cleaned Annually... and Old Hoarders should STOP... but... I struggle still with those Goals! *Le Sigh* Merry Christmas and I'm glad you're using that pix for your Banner, enlarged so we can enjoy it all the more!

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    1. WOW, you noticed my mask clutched in my hand. I didn’t see that, but yes, my mask is with me all the time. As they say in baseball, “Good Eye”.

      Cleaning out the garage and basement is not something that I look forward to doing. However, I did get rid of a few things and that accomplishment should do me till spring. I am still working on boxes that I moved in with 18 years ago. I am pretty sure that what is left belong to my adult children who have homes of their own.

      I hope you have a good Christmas, Dawn. You have so much going on and my heart goes out to you. You are an amazing woman and I admire you so.

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  13. Love, love, love the pictures. Scarlett is such a cutie! You really made my day. Never would have guessed the picture was taken in the North Pole garage.

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    1. A garage in Southeast PA had to do. This Santa family hates the cold.

      Happy Holidays to you, Carol, and I know that you will find wonderful ways to enjoy the upcoming days. You are a person who looks for joy in all you do.

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  14. This is just adorable. What a precious memory. X

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  15. Awww this is just so lovely :)

    All the best Jan

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    1. Thank you, Jan. It was a lot of fun doing it.

      I hope your holidays are merry and bright.

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  16. I love the positivity that shines through in this post! I hope you are able to have a safe a peaceful Christmas.
    CLICK HERE for Bazza’s famously festive Blog ‘To Discover Ice’

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    1. Oh, thank you Barry. I am trying my best to look for
      positive things and stay hopeful. It isn’t easy.

      I hope you and Leah have healthy and happy holidays.

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  17. Heartwarming story and I love your picture(s). So glad you got to see and hold your grand baby.

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    1. Thank you, Liza. Rebooting a precious memory was a lovely experience.

      Wishing you and your daughter peaceful and kind days ahead.

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  18. I think that I have the loveliest people as followers. I am truly blessed. Laurie, I am so glad that I found your blog as it is beautifully written and your sweetness and kindness always comes through.

    Have a Merry Christmas and may 2021 bring us all some peace.

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  19. What a dear little tot, I had to look closely to be sure that Scarlet was not a doll! I'm so pleased that you were able to create such a special occasion. (I suspect a repeat performance will requested next year!)

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    1. There will be a repeat in another week or two. My daughter wants Scarlet to wear her Christmas dress. I am glad that I didn’t take the Christmas backdrop down.

      I wish you healthy and happy holidays, Rosemary.

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  20. Hi Arleen. Love your header pic. Scarlet is beautiful. Wishing you and all your family a merry (Milly) Christmas and everything good in 2021 xxxx

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    1. I thought about not wearing that white wig as I have been avoiding white hair for years. However, Mrs. Claus is not a slave to fashion and her look hasn’t changed in a 100 years.

      I wish you, Molly, much joy and happiness during the holidays. Stay safe.

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  21. What a great idea, this is a beautiful photo and you look absolutely great as "The Santa Family"! I love that you are able to create precious memories even at a difficult time like this, and when dear little Scarlet grows up I hope she has a copy of this picture to smile at. Maybe you can print it out for her and give it to her for Christmas, for her parents to keep.

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    1. I will definitely get a photo and have it framed for her. It was great fun doing it for both my daughter, Sarah, and my granddaughter, Scarlet. We can’t have a Christmas this year like before, but we can find ways to still make memories and find joy. It will just take a little more work and some imagination.

      I hope, Jenny, that you will be able to see family safely and make a memory or two during the Christmas holidays.

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    2. I am sure Sarah and later Scarlet will treasure the picture as a memory of how you turned a difficult time into something fun!

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  22. I love this! Using an old memory to make a new memory!

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    1. My daughter had the idea when she realized that there would be no visiting Santa at the mall this year. It was a wonderful idea and we were thrilled to take on the roles.

      I wish you healthy and happy holidays, Debby.

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  23. Well that is the cutest and most adorable photo of Mr. and Mrs. Claus! What a wonderful memory for you and your precious granddaughter! Thanks so much for sharing this Christmas job with us! We need it right now!

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    1. Thank you you so much for your very kind words, Ellen. We were so so excited and happy to be able to do this. This is a difficult time for everybody and being able to do this for my daughter and granddaughter was pure joy.

      I hope that you will have many joyous moments, Ellen, during the coming holidays. This year will be different so we have to be creative.

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  25. Arleen, Scarlet looks absolutely adorable surrounded by her wonderful fun-loving grandparents (aka Santa & Mildred). I love how you creatively converted your garage into Santa's Workshop. Martha Stewart could certainly learn a thing or two from you! You and your family will always cherish this memory . Great reminder about the importance of annual garage cleaning. Merry Christmas and a Happy & Healthy New Year to you and your lovely family!

    Julie

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    1. Making our daughter happy meant everything to us and it was a fun time in a time that has had so little fun.

      I hope you have safe and healthy holidays, Julie, and May 2021 be kinder to us.

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  26. Oh my goodness, these pictures are so adorable!!--love them. So fun and y'all did a great job and the background/decorations look great!! Hope you're having a real nice weekend. It's warm and SUNNY here, my kind of day, ha ha LOL. Going out for some fresh air! Hugs!

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    1. Thank you, Debbie. We have a nice sunny day here now, but it is cold.

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  27. Oh what fun! I love you both as the Clauses, you look great!!!

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  28. What a delight! Garage decorations very attractive.

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    1. Thank you, Joared. We certainly would have liked a nicer backdrop (Christmas wrapping paper) and environment, but today we have to think out of the box or in the garage.

      I appreciate your comment and wish you a joyous and healthy holiday.

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  29. Brava! Bravo! You have composed a treasurable memory for that kid --and for this kid, uh me. Delightful photo!

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  30. Thank you, Geo. It was a pleasure and lots of fun to do this for my family.

    I hope that you and Norma are doing well and wish you a lovely, peaceful holiday.

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  31. Beautiful, happy photos...wonderful memories to cherish.

    And I adore your header photo..what a fantastic photo it is!

    Take good care, Arleen :)

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    1. Thank you, Lee. I am so happy that my family will have these pictures to look back on in the years to come.

      I hope you and your little family of kitties have a lovely holiday.

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  32. Congratulations on your bundle of joy...even though I'm way late. At least a bright spot even in these times. You are such a great person, your right... even in these times, we must be grateful for what we have. And your blog header is priceless!!! Hope you enjoying the season as best as you can.

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    1. Thank you, Mistress Maddie. Having another grandchild was such a wonderful event and a reason for joy in this difficult year. I have given up on some things lately, but I will never give up on joy. Putting on that white wig and red dress and helping My Retired Man into his Santa outfit had us in stitches. There is still fun to be had, smiles to be made and love to be given despite these hard times.

      I hope your holidays are joyous and kind and may 2021 be a year of
      health, unity and gentleness.


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  33. oh these are PRECIOUS images and treasured memories dear Arleen :)

    thank you for sharing them ,your daughter was adorable
    time changes swiftly indeed
    i agree that such events relive our not just memories but refresh our souls too
    more blessings to you and your loved ones !

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    1. Thank you Baili. Making memories with family is the best part of life.

      I hope this season finds you healthy and strong. Take care, dear Baili.

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  34. It was a good recipe, but, unfortunately, she never wrote it down. The wonderful aroma of it as she cooked it is a memory that we all remember.

    We did another Santa photo shoot this weekend, but this time, I ditched the white wig with the bun.

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  35. Replies
    1. Thank you Sharon. Despite what surrounds us, there are still ways to make lovely memories.

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  36. Dear Arleen, what a lovely posting. So tender of heart with memories of your daughter Scarlet and now a new granddaughter and a photo and memories that link the past with the present. I wonder how far past we can all go with our memories of gratitude for what was and our hopes and expectations, and yes, certainties of what will be. Always there will be love and always there will be children with whom to share our lives.

    For me, too, this is a year of gratitude. Peace.

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    1. I, also, look for gratitude wherever I can, Dee. Remembering what is past and enjoying simple pleasures, help cushion the most difficult of times. If we look for joy, we will find it. Just being thankful is a sacred blessing.

      I wish you comfort and simple, wonderful pleasures during this Christmas season, dear friend.

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    2. Dear Arleen, thank you. Peace on earth, good will to all humanity.

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  37. What a delightful photo!

    And what a lovely Header it makes!!!

    Greetings, from here at the "North Pole"!!!

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  38. Have a healthy and happy and peaceful one xxxx

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  39. Arleen, this is the best, most uplifting thing I've read in a long time. I'm sure mine aren't the only eyes that were glistening with tears while reading it. This was such a gift. Your daughter coming up with the idea was a super good thing for you and your hubby, and implementing it was even better. Hope. Joy. Tradition. Continuity. Family. Love. Staging this for your granddaughter... for her parents... for yourselves... embodies all of this. Then you shared it with us, and blessed us with all of those embodied emotions, as well. Such a gift. Really. Something your whole family can treasure.

    Thank you so much for the card... and the tea bags! (It's reeeeally good!) I appreciate you more than I can say. I wish for you a wonderful 2021 and a return to spending as much time with your granddaughter... and all the other grands... as your heart desires.

    Take care, sweet lady.

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  40. Oh, Susan, thank you so much. You lift me up.

    Let us all go into this next year with hope and the strength to deal with what 2021 has in store for us. I am going to be looking for bluebirds.

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  41. Just stopping by to send my good wishes to you for 2021.

    All the best Jan

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