We asked readers to share how Christmas decorations bring back memories of loved ones. Jen Eckhart of Lehighton remembers her time with her grandmother.

“So many of my childhood moments were spent with my grandmother, Faye Mertz,” Eckhart said.

“Together, we’d bake cookies, make delicious appetizers, create gifts to give, decorate her home for our family time on Christmas Eve, go to church, and worship Jesus — the reason we celebrate.”

When Eckhart grew up and had her own home, her grandmother blessed her with an antique paper mache Santa Claus that was hers when she was little.

“She said that on Christmas morning, she’d find a pair of stockings and an orange in Santa’s sack.” Eckhart said. “This is a special piece to me because it was hers and I’m reminded of how blessed we are. I tuck this guy into my Christmas tree each year.”

Eckhart shared, “I love to decorate with antiques and vintage items, especially those belonging to family. My tree sits on top of two milk crates that were my great-grandfather, William T Strohl’s. He owned Pohopoco Pride Dairy Farm at Big Creek before Beltzville Lake was placed.”

These decorations are a great reminder of her family’s story.

“I add milk cans, chicken wire ribbon, cranberries, and snowflakes to my tree as well, along with a sign that says, ‘O Come, Let Us Adore Him,’ ” Eckhart said.

Eckhart made the “caroling” snowman ornament several years ago.

She also treasures antique ice skates that were given to her by an aunt.

Now Eckhart carries on family traditions and bakes cookies her daughter, Bella.

“Just like my grandmother did with me,” she said.