'Tis the Season

When Jessi was only a few years old, we purchased this Nativity set from Sears.  We wanted something that was inexpensive and that she could "play with" and set up and which could be kept in a prominent place that would not require any "don't touch that" responses from us.  It's been 25+ years and it's still in good shape.  The palm trees were given to us by Wally's Mom, Betty, and they are the perfect addition, lending an authentic desert touch.

Since then I've found a few other Nativity scenes that I've added to my "collection".  It's hard to find good ones that don't cost a fortune or aren't too big to display in a smallish house.  This was the next one I found and I don't remember where we got it.  But I like it's simplicty.

This is one of my favorites.  It was made by my dear friend, Jill, and was a Christmas gift about 10 years ago.

I had another one that I loved that Jessi made out of Fimo when she was in middle school, but she's taken that with her...  :)

This one is the most unique ones I've ever seen.  We purchased it at an import store, it's made out of stone and I can't even imagine how the crafter managed to get so much implied detail out of such a tiny object.  It measures only 1/2" by 1/2".  

If I had the ability to travel, it would be fun to collect different Nativity sets from different countries because each would come with its own cultural influence!  I love this season and all the varied ways we can keep in the forefront of our minds the reason for celebrating it!