12 Days of Christmas plates

Several years ago, I ordered a set of miniature plates featuring the Twelve Days of Christmas. When they arrived, I got out hammer and finishing nails and was about to pound 12 nails into the woodwork above the arch separating dining room from living room. My mother was appalled. “You are not going to put all those nails in your beautiful woodwork, are you?” “Why? Do you have a better idea?” “No, but I bet I can think of one.” So off we went to the craft store.

She bought four little fences, some silk holly, red ribbon and a glue gun. In about 15 minutes, she had made these decorations. I was impressed. Every year, I unpack them gingerly and carefully check each plate before hanging each fence. Each year, at least one must be reglued. Once the plates are all secure, I check the string, fluff up the ribbons and hang them. I always breathe a sigh of relief when all is back together and on the wall.