My grandparents’ house has a huge birch tree in front of it that we used to climb on as kids. I have always loved that tree. A couple of years ago they had to trim some branches from it and my Grandpa and Grandma gave me some of the logs. I was so grateful to have pieces of it. It’s like having tangible pieces of my childhood.

In my compromise with my children I used the birch logs to make some winter planters for the porch with some sprigs of white pine, blue spruce and cedar from our yard topped off with some twinkle lights. I have yet to put any ribbon or sparkle in it because I’m still in harvest mode but I’m warming myself up for decking the halls. Today I am grateful for these reminders of my dear grandparents that I miss so much!

Know therefore that the LORD your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commandments. Deuteronomy 7:9