A very special stocking…
The red felt is still soft to the touch. The cuff around the top of the stocking is still white and that’s saying a lot, considering how many years it’s been hung from house to house and mantle to mantle. There’s a tiny Christmas tree sewn on with little ornaments decorating it and beading for the tinsel. Small pieces of felt with more beads in the shape of bows are placed just so, topping off the presents sitting under the tree.
The best part is the train. A big black felt engine, with two smaller cars and even more beads that swirl around above the engine mimicking a cloud of smoke. It’s exactly what a little boy would want on his Christmas stocking.
But I guess a loving grandmother would know that, wouldn’t she? She made this beautiful stocking for Leroy when he was just a little guy. It’s got to be more than 50 years old now.
Every year it would take on a lumpy, bumpy shape from all the chocolate truffles stuffed all the way down to its toe….Leroy always went to his stocking first knowing there was nothing better than to start Christmas morning with something chocolate!
It’s hanging at the fireplace this year too. The usual treats aren’t there anymore, but I still love looking at the stocking and remembering the traditions that are tucked safely inside.
And did I mention the angel? She is cut out of pink felt with a gold beaded halo above her wings. The gold sequined stars surrounding her catch the light and give her a special glow.
It’s a very special stocking.
December 21, 2013 @ 2:34 am
This is a particularly difficult time of year. I haven’t put up Andy’s Christmas stocking the last five years, but you have inspired me to do it this year. Maybe the grandkids will be able to create some memories from it.
Thanks, Laurie, for continuing this blog. I look at it periodically, and know that you are all here if I need some comfort. I hope you all have a good holiday season and find some peace during this time.
December 20, 2013 @ 10:35 pm
Jim had a scarf that he received as a gift while in high school and he wore it every winter…he was known for the red and blue striped scarf and it is over 40 years old. My first Christmas tree after he passed away was lacking something…every year since that scarf has wrapped the “neck” of the tree. You made Leroy’s stocking sound so beautiful..what a treasure.
December 20, 2013 @ 8:14 pm
Laurie, I love that you put out Leroy’s hand-made stocking and that it brings you joy. Keep it close.
December 20, 2013 @ 7:11 pm
It is always nice to remember the good times, the times that brought you happiness and joy.
Might be that you need to have those truffles first thing in the morning.