Deciduous Holly

Over the weekend Nyel and I were the lucky recipients of two marvelous ‘gifts of the season’ – several large branches of holly berries from across-the-street-neighbor Bradley and a spectacular wreath from north-end-Martie!  I was so touched by their generosity!

The holly berries (which are technically called ‘drupes’ not ‘berries’) are from Bradley’s neighbor in Tacoma and are a deciduous species of the ilex (which is the Latin name for its genus.)  Unlike the holly that grows in our lane – mostly prickly green leaves only punctuated by small clumps of berries – the holly Bradley brought us is ALL berries!  Absolutely gorgeous!  I hope they last through the holidays!

Christmas Wreath

And how could Martie have known that I have always coveted a wreath like the one she brought?  I even know exactly where it will go – on the inside of our ‘front’ door which is actually the outside of our back door.  And, if that’s confusing, I’ll just say that we will see it every day, whether or not we step foot outside!

Both gifts reminded me of years past when my grandparents were still living.  The doorbell would ring – in those days it was a mechanical bell that had a handle you turned round and round – and there would be neighbor Helen Heckes with a bunch of flowers from her garden.  Or, perhaps it would be Ted Holway on his way home from the cannery, with a sack of oysters for our dinner.

Old Doorbell Handle

More recently, when my parents lived in the house, the doorbell would ring – by then a fancy electric button-type bell – and there would be Eric or Marc Wiegardt with a mess of ducks or Lucille Freshly with a batch of newly baked cookies.

Old Doorbell

Even in those years it occurred to me that there were perks for the old folks.  I’m so glad things haven’t changed, even though I’m somewhat amazed to be on the receiving end!  Whoo! Hoo!  Hooray for the neighbors!