Christmas Toys and Nostalgic Memories

When we were kids, Christmas was all about toys. 

Waking up in the morning and finding Santa had left us

 a glorious pile of brightly wrapped presents.

Then playing with them all day and showing anyone who visited all of our loot.

I wasn't that much into dolls or toys but I loved stuffed animals 

and could probably still tell you each one's name. 

I also remember getting my first camera -- it was a Polaroid! 

And each year, my sister and I always got matching PJs.

Of course, my favorite toy was Teddy, a little brown bear given to me by my Aunt Hilda 

on the day I was born. (second bear from left below) 

I also loved the mechanical bear that drank a Coca Cola or was it a Root Beer but he's long gone.

Ron had a special bear too named Geebee. (far left) We both still have our childhood bears
along with a couple of newcomers. 

Ron still loves to collect toys and other items from the 1950s when he was a kid. 

Christmas definitely meant toys!

Do you remember any of these from Ron's collection?

I guess some things never change no matter how old you are.

Ron says these things from an earlier era remind him of a happy time in his life. 

He's fashioned a room in our basement that is a museum of sorts.

Not only does he have a nice collection of toys but also a few collectibles from that era.
Remember green stamps?

For us, Christmas is a time of nostalgic memories. 

Most of all I remember

Dad trying to recite Twas A Night Before Christmas and getting it all messed up,
Mom singing Silent Night in her deep, clear voice,
and my big sister showing me how to place the icicles just so on the tree.

Oh, and devouring Mom's nut rolls (my sister makes them now --
the yummy tradition lives on!

Special memories, but really, when you're in first grade, it's all about the toys!

So from our family to yours, 

we wish you a very Merry Christmas 

and whatever electronic toy is in your letter to Santa!

Have fun!

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