EDITOR’S LETTER

Next to setting up a 100-year-old Nativity set that has been passed down through several generations of my family and decorating my tree with the handmade ornaments I managed to save from my childhood, I always look forward to watching the holiday shows that are televised throughout December. One Christmas Eve tradition that I have enjoyed for many years is watching two of my favorite holiday classics, A Christmas Story and the 1938 version of A Christmas Carol, while relaxing in the warm glow of twinkle lights on my tree. Even if it means wrapping a few more packages late into the evening, I’m always tuned in when the first movie starts.

We all have holiday traditions that hold special meaning, from the way we decorate our homes to the types of foods we serve our family and guests, and it’s a treat for me to look through this issue every year and see how our featured homeowners celebrate the season. For example, Penny and Roger Ausley (“Christmas at the Cabin,” pages 32–38), Toni and Jim Anthony (“Bungalow Aglow,” pages 58–71), and Ginger and Doug Schmidt (“Just by Chance,” pages 74–86) revel in rustic, primitive and antique trimmings. Gary K. Ball Jr. (“Path Through the Past,” pages 42–55) decks his rooms with eight full-size artificial trees and a half-dozen smaller ones, while Amy Pardue (“Repurposeful Thinking,” pages 90–103) spreads cheer with a classic red and green palette.

We did, however, break a little from the norm with alternative Christmas tree displays that we hope will inspire your creativity (“Branch Out,” pages 8–14). Plus, we share ideas for festive garlands (Deck Your Halls, pages 16–20), everyday goods turned into unique decorations (“A Merry Remix,” pages 22–27) and a primitive and Colonial cabinet redo (“Transformative Trimmings,” pages 28–31).

From all of us at Country Sampler, we wish you and your family a Christmas season that is filled with memorable moments and lasting traditions!