Author: Wayne Harada

Swinging right along, this one undoubtedly is the most fun-oriented decor in our annual Christmas collection. You be the judge…whether it’s ornamental, of just a toy of sorts…

No. 24— This creation definitely is not about Christmas. But it becomes a funky yuletide conversation piece. I bought a small metallic swing – with two moving seats – and secured two Christmas ornaments, a Santa and a snowman with dangling feet/legs (yes!). Glued ‘em into each seat. Because the swing set is painted black, it begs for some twinkle, so I wrapped green glitter trim around the left and right pillars supporting the seats. It’s playground fun, albeit miniature, and if left on a coffee table or a workplace table, it’s guaranteed to be tapped to make the figures sway. Movement matters!

A tree is a tree is a tree, even if it doesn’t look like one; but it is a Christmas tree, if it exudes the holiday spirit ad challenges the usual mindset. Meet No. 23, in our annual countown…

23—This novelty find –used one previously—challenges the imagination. It proves a tree can be without leaves, as long as it’s something vertical, in this case a series of six circular tree stumps were carefully cut into graduating sizes, the tiniest at the top and the largest at the bottom and anchored with a stump of a base. The space between the slabs is less than an inch in height, so to decorate, you need truly small Christmas stuff: little trees, tiny ornaments, faux candy, Santa charms, and anything that suits your imagination. If it fits, glue it. The reaction will be positive, because it’s certainly different. I bought the tree “nude,”  but can’t recall when or where from, but gussied it up with miniatures. It’s truly one of my favorites, because it has charm because it’s unconventional.

Our annual ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas column — this year’s will be a ‘Twas the Morning of Christmas edition — will be published on Christmas Day, Dec. 25.

A total of 39 names are mentioned on Santa’s gift list, so tune in to discover who made the list. Merry Christmas.

The finale is almost over, in our Christmas Countdown, sharing 25 holiday decor…

No. 22—This mouse, wearing a red coat with a notable “W” letter, is an homage to a literary mouse character named Wordsworth,  a creation of a poet/author friend. Wordsworth inspires youngsters to write original poems, to think and articulate.  The  celebratory situation simulates a red carpet, deserving of a  celeb, and though you can’t see it, there’s a mirrored shelf with greenery and an ornament to cap the scene. (The recipient already responded with a  “Wow!”)