This nativity scene is from Mike's childhood. When we were first married his mom gave us a bunch of old Christmas decorations. They are all precious to Mike. You know how things that remind you of your childhood are so sweet.
This nativity set originally came with a manger that folded up flat or storage. It was made from a soft pressed board kind of material, not much stronger than cardboard. It had straw bits glued to the roof and it was fun to set it up. Alas, though, it did not outlast our children. For a few years I taped it to hold it together. I actually think we still have it; I couldn't bring myself to throw it out, but it was pretty much crushed.
The little figures have been played by Mike and likely his sisters' little fingers when they were children. They were played with by our children and hopefully our grandchildren will enjoy them for years.
Do you have a nativity set? Is it vintage or new? We have quite a few of them but none more precious than this one.
3 comments:
When I was about 4, I think, my mom made a nativity with plaster and molds, including the stable. There are a lot of pieces and all are very ornately painted; I know it must have taken her quite a bit of time. As kids, we loved to see that nativity come out each Christmas season! The camels were always my favorite. Mom still has this nativity, and it really wouldn't be Christmas without it.
I have a more modern one; it's a Willow Tree set. Alas, with everything going on, I have not gotten it out this year. I would like to make a nativity out of polymer clay someday.
I hate to tell this, but just a few days ago, as Megan and I were coming through the living room, the vibrations of our steps caused a framed drawing I had sitting on the table behind where the Nativity Anne Marie describes was set up to slip down. It crashed into the stable. There was a big crash and clatter as most of the set hit the floor. Thanks to the carpet, the stable was the only casualty. It broke into pieces, but the breaks are clean and I think Megan can superglue it together (she is steadier of hand and clearer of eye than I am). Unfortunately, I no longer have the set of molds to make a new one.
I've looked at many beautiful Nativities in the stores and love them. I would like to have one of the very realistic ones. But, the old homemade one is laden with memories of Christmases through all our family's years. How could I part with it?
Ha! Michelle, I think your nativity set just supplied you with a new family story/history! All the better!
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