With Matt’s input, the transformation took on life. As per Katrina’s only request, he kept in close contact with her in order to answer a myriad of questions.
About three days into the project, Matt received a frustrated text from Katrina. “I need photos, Matt, old and new. You have nothing personal out. Surely you have some old photo albums I can peek through, and what about some recent pictures of that beautiful baby you keep talking about?”
Katrina’s no-nonsense, let’s-get-it-done attitude, kept the ball rolling. After the painters were done, a team of women stormed the house. They cleaned, fussed, and carted in boxes and bags of endless décor items. Every day when Matt came in after work, he marveled at how his house was being transformed into a home.
Wide-open spaces were filled with a combination of new and antique furniture, creating a classic traditional feel. Warm Persian rugs that complimented the wall color were strategically placed on the hardwood floors to create a room within a room. The windows were covered in new, chic blinds and tasteful drapes. Beautiful paintings graced the walls, and his bookcases were filled with not only books but ornaments, candles, and pictures all carefully arranged. Flowers and plants spilled out of pots and vases. Every nook and cranny came alive with color and texture. Katrina was determined that he’d love his home when she was done. And love it he did.
On December 24th, the makeover complete, Katrina’s team arrived to do what he’d originally hired her to do—decorate for Christmas.
Matt worked a half day then headed back. In those few morning hours, Katrina’s team of elves brought Christmas into his home. A real tree rose from floor to ceiling permeating the house with a woodsy scent of pine. Garland, lights, and bows graced the balcony and stair banister. A smaller beautifully decorated tree draped with gold stars, angels, and red bows brought cheer to the living area just off the kitchen.
Matt especially loved the new swivel leather rocking chairs strategically placed where he could enjoy the stunning view of the city in one direction and his crackling fire in the other. Three stockings hung from the mantle, two filled to the brim with goodies for his girls. He glanced up at his favorite addition and smiled in delight. Twinkling lights woven into garland framed the photo he had enlarged and mounted. He couldn’t be more pleased.
At his request, his recent purchase of a carved olive wood nativity scene received center stage on the mantle recreating the Christmas story. Poinsettias graced most every room in tasteful cheer. The whole effect was truly magical and hopelessly romantic.
“Katrina, you have outdone yourself. I can’t say thank you enough.” Matt handed her a check with a sizable tip.
Katrina looked down at the amount, and her eyes widened. “This project certainly challenged me in both the time allotted and the sheer magnitude of the job. But,” she said holding up the check, “this soothed the tired right out of my bones.”
Anna dressed with care for the candlelight service on Christmas Eve. An unexplained excitement jumped inside. She pulled the brush through her hair—a flash of the wedding ring still on her finger brought back thoughts of Steven.
He had died late November … so much had happened. The past year could be chalked up as her worst year ever except for the blessing of Melody and the redeeming love of God. Her Christianity had grown leaps and bounds out of the ashes.
She turned the single gold band around on her finger and shook off the cobwebs of the memories. With a smile into the mirror, she concentrated on the here and now. Her choice of a bright red sweater that hugged her curves and layered over a pencil slim black skirt that rode just above the knees gave her the pretty look she longed for. She dug her high heels from the back of the closet and was about to slip them on when she noticed a thick layer of dust. It made her realize how long since she had dressed up for an evening.
She focused on the full-length mirror in front of her and pirouetted for inspection. Her hair waved obediently down her back. She grinned at the fact she had actually tamed the frizzy sprigs that usually turned into uncontrollable fluff. Her makeup applied with intentional care provided the fresh natural look she desired.
One more glance gave her the inspiration for that last little touch. She rummaged through her dresser until she found the velvet box she had received after her mother’s death. With care, she opened the precious gift. A matching set of pearl earrings and necklace stood out against the dark green velvet. They were just what she needed. The end result brought an instant smile to her face.
With the Christmas music cranked up loud, Anna waltzed into Melody’s room. She had been awake from her nap for the past half hour. Anna had heard her sweet coos and babbles filter down the hall to her room.
A huge smile lit Melody’s face as Anna came into view. “Come, my sweet baby. Let’s get you looking pretty for Daddy too.” Anna smiled. She had dressed with care for one person in mind, and there was no point in denying that truth.
Melody wiggled and reached with chubby fists toward Anna’s hair that was usually pulled back. “No, no, little one. Mama just got that looking good.” She pinned her hair behind each ear as she dressed Melody in a bright red dress with frilly white lace, a warm coat, and tiny moccasin boots. Melody cooed to the Christmas music in the car all the way to the church.
“Mama’s angel, yes, you are.” Anna whispered as she lifted her out of her car seat. The child
