December Challenge: Lights & Decorations

I finished decorating the tree on Sunday, a task made utterly enjoyable by continuous Christmas music and reminiscing about the history of the many decorations acquired over the years. I'm sure every family has this same tradition, remembering the who/what/when details that make each decoration special. Pictured here are two wooden kitties painted with the names of our deceased cats Cleo and Chessie (misspelled on the ornament for extra charm.) When I see them I remember the time that Chessie tried to climb the tree and nearly knocked it over. And the year that one of the cats bit right through a string of lights, yet managed to live. Thank goodness for nine lives! They were a special part of our lives for more than 18 years, joining the family when our daughter was just 5 years old. We intended to adopt one kitten, but ended up with two because we didn't want to separate the litter-mates. Chessie only lasted months after the death of his sister Cleo, and they are both buried on "boot hill" on our property. I like remembering them each year now that they are gone. For chantler63's December Challenge.