“Christmas is not a time nor a season, but a state of mind,” said Calvin Coolidge, 30th President of the United States.
As Coolidge was an attorney who later became President in 1923, it seems appropriate to begin this story with Gil McBride and his wife, Betsy. You may know Gil, as the Superior Court Judge for Muscogee and five surrounding counties. His wife, Betsy, is an attorney and partner at Page, Scrantom, Sprouse, Tucker & Ford.
Make no mistake; the McBride’s Christmas is rooted in faith and family, as their decorations bear witness.
“Our ornaments are a celebration of family, featuring our children’s artwork, dog ornaments, and historical decorations. It is truly a family tree,” said McBride.
Gil and Betsy both thought they would always put up a live tree and that they did for more than 20 years.
“We love live trees, but to get one that is 12’ tall, as the branches unfold and fit the space for display, became more challenging. We also generally give each holiday its place, but this year we started early and decorated the main living area before Thanksgiving with an artificial tree.” The McBride’s put up 11 trees throughout their home. Even though they are artificial, Betsy brings in the aroma of Christmas with live wreaths, garlands, and candles.
“I love the fresh smell of Christmas, especially the Balsam Cedar candles from Illume, but there are plenty of candles that help produce that scent,” said Betsy.
Family memories are always present, from table displays to the China on the dining room table.
The Cantrells are another family who adore the season and spread Christmas magic throughout their home.
Their decorating styles may be different but like Gil and Betsy McBride, Mark and Bonita Cantrell love spending time with family during the holidays.
“Christmas is special. It’s about love and warmth and we like to make our home a comfort zone,” explained Bonita.
There are various sizes of artificial trees throughout their home, including one in every bedroom. Christmas throws lie across all seating areas, and stockings adorn every lamp and their fireplace.
“We selected a live tree this year from Dave’s Christmas Trees, and it was a great experience. They delivered it, trimmed it, and set it up for us. We put a big red bow on the top.” Bonita’s inspiration for Christmas decorating came from her mother, who passed away, but she still decorates her daddy’s home where her family gathers during the holidays.
The season is made even more special for the Cantrell family with their daughter Jeanita’s son, four-year-old Bobby Shawn who loves Christmas and helping rearrange decorations.
Both Mark and Bonita are blessed to celebrate the season with generations of their families. Mark’s mother is 92 years old and Bonita’s dad is 94.
The Cantrell family and the McBride family will each celebrate Christmas as they have done for many years. The season is really all about making memories. Merry Christmas to all!
