Gifts under the tree
Temporary joy they bring
Cluttered surfaces
Mass produced decorations
Quick to end up in landfills
Hand crafted items
Cherished adornments hung with
Family photos
Remind of the departed
And the children now grown up
Warm meals made with love
Served on hand-me-down dishes
To the near and dear
Old tales and new encounters
Cherished moments created
Heartfelt gratitude –
To those who are suffering
May you find the gifts
Of love, peace and contentment
For this moment and beyond
TankaTuesday Poetry Challenge No. 42, hosted by Yvette.
JJJ Interactive Books 
You have taken us full circle. Wonderful!
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Thank you, Violet! 😊
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My husband’s aunt gave us some hand crafted ornaments. Instead of a tree I hang things in odd spots around the house for a little random cheer. This year a few days after my random rampage I realized that the ornaments made by Aunt Maha wound up in the kitchen, a fitting tribute to one of the best cooks ever. The real thing she gave us was love.
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The best gift she could give!
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Those hand-me-downs are the true gifts. They make holidays even more special. This is an excellent tanka rensaku. Thank you, Jennifer. 🎄
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Thank you, Colleen! 😊
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This is a beautiful and warm post and you show compassion for those less blessed 💜💜
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Thank you, Willow! 😊
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A please 💜💜💜
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Beautiful piece, Jen. Those hand-me-down gifts are much more meaningful than store bought gifts! Wishing you a joyous holiday. 💕
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Thank you, Eugi! 😊
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You’re most welcome!
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What a stunning rensaku series! I prefer a hand made gift any day!
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Thank you, Colleen! 😊
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You’re welcome, Jennifer.
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