the tradition lives on

i grew up in a house devoted to holiday cheer. where a real tree was decorated, mistletoe was hung, and rooms were lit with christmas lights of the sort. every year, my dad and i placed the star atop the tree...and every year we posed ridiculously for the camera, arms reaching in midair. all for the sake of tradition.

now that i'm living on my own, i notice how i carry the same holiday spirit as my parents. the kind of spirit that embraces modesty and tenderness, rejoices in simplicity and festivity. i could very well go on with my everyday in la and enjoy my parents' holiday-adorned home when i visit, but that's simply out of the question. behold the christmas tree! welcome, dear lights! it is time to transform this apartment into a holiday home...

the tree in all its nakedness

the goods

one of my favorite forest friends

touch-ups

sweet g hanging lights

the finished product