It seems kind of silly to start talking about holiday decor in August however every year I buy at least one new tree ornament for Christmas (we call it Foxmas in our household). The Christmas Shop in East Sandwich, MA has been in business for over 70 years and our annual trip is a long standing family tradition. The tiny, antique building was erected in 1747 as a shelter for cranberry bog workers. The house is so tiny and charming...anyone over 5'2" needs to duck their head when entering the shop. Every inch of the interior is covered with ornaments and holiday decor. The pieces I collect are all German blown glass, coated on the inside with liquid silver and hand painted on the outside. The technique and molds have been used since the 1800's and the tradition is carried on today by the Merck family. I have been collecting seaside and Boston inspired ornaments for my "Cape Cod" tree for a few years now...

A sampling of their ornaments...the cuckoo clocks provide a familiar soundtrack...

A few of my favorites from this year: The Wizard of Oz collection, the Flying Pig, and the veggies...

The Cape Cod and Boston items that will be adorning my little tree in December: a cute Santa-ish sea captain, a red kayak just like our real life version and a skunk, natch!