Tree Treasures No. 24: Handmade Will Always Mean More

This trio might not catch your eye at first glance, but to me, they are priceless.

Every single one of these ornaments was handmade by my children.

The brown “cookie” is made of clay and is so heavy we joke it’s our official tree paperweight. Handmade beats store bought every time in my book and this one proves it.

Bobby’s Boy Scout ornament takes me straight back to those years. Long evenings working on badges, meetings and a house that always seemed full of boys, noise, and laughter. I helped Dave lead his troop and those seasons were busy, exhausting, and incredibly special.

And then there’s the star. You might see a styrofoam star covered in little tissue paper squares. I see a little girl with tiny hands, carefully choosing colors, concentrating so hard on placing each piece just right. I still remember Kimberley’s smile when she finished and proudly showed it off. That moment is sealed inside this ornament forever.

These aren’t just decorations. They’re captured moments. Proof of childhood, effort, creativity and love. They hold a permanent place in my heart and always will.

Do you have a handmade ornament from your kids that means more to you than anything you could buy?

If you enjoy nostalgic holiday stories, I’m also sharing my Christmas memories in a new series called Christmas Stories Throughout the Years.