Santa with a tree and a sack.

My parents lived in Bad Kreuznach, Germany for three years when they were first married because my father was stationed there in the army. Among other things (including my older sister who was born there!), they brought back ornaments for the tree with them. Every year growing up when we helped them decorate the tree, I would marvel at the hand painted wooden ornaments. Each one more interesting and colorful than the next. I would line them up, play with them and make sure my favorites got prime spots on the tree. They are over 40 years old, many other ornaments have come and gone, but these remain the only ones worth putting on the tree. I like how cheerful and odd they are. I was planning on posting something else for today, but after seeing these when I was home I wanted to share them with you.

Why does the postman carry a horn?

Two hazelnut friends and a cart with a bird and gift.

Mr. Chimney Sweep, what do those clovers mean?

The rocking horse! This might be my favorite, that mane is so soft.

Soldier boy, windmill, happy figure with clover shaped hat holding 2 pfennig, front car of a train.