another wonderful Christmas tree, this one for the Barack Obama White house. In a tradition
that goes back to the Ronald Reagan presidency, Lakewood's authority on the Christmas holiday
as well as Easter, Valentine's Day, and well damn near every other holiday, Bill Hixson was off
to the airport after spending some time with me to get the 2012 tree done!
Bill Hixson signing ornaments for some fans. For many it has become a tradition to go to
Hixson's and get a new ornament(s) every year, and to get Mr. Christmas to sign it. The
line was out the door as we talked about the past, the future, and the current holidays.
Bill and I go back to before I was born.
Bill Hixson bought this building from my father over 60 years ago. Bill, a family friend, was
looking for something larger than the storefront he was in for his growing business, and
my father was friends with the guy that owned the horse buggy/car wash that was headed
to being out-of-business. "The second I walked in I could see the potential, I could also see the years
of dirt and grime that had been cleaned from horse and buggies and cars." What followed
was a great story of love of Lakewood, and love of celebrations.
Bill's book on the Christmas Holiday and things that go with it. A great read and stocking stuffer.
A look back at retired ornaments, many if not all have ended up on Whit House Christmas trees.
This year three new ones are headed to Washington DC and maybe your tree!
The Nativity
The Cardinal
and...
The Cleveland Skyline will all be on the 2012 tree in the White House.
All are available for purchase!
Along with thousands of other great unique ornaments.
Here Eunice, who started back in the 60's, helps with customers.
The three largest sellers. A pig, a frog and a pickle. All are good luck!
Around every corner Hixson's has a different surprise that brings forward another great
memory. This display was in the May Co. and was in "The Christmas Story."
Mr. Jing-A-Ling from Halles, also appears as...
Another one of the hot sellers!
More holiday memories everywhere.
and more ornaments.
For your loved ones-- get them a book, and an ornament. If you do not do it already, start
the tradition this year, with ornaments for the kids. Take them down there and let them
pick out their favorite for a memory that will last a lifetime, and be remembered every
Christmas time when setting up the tree. $10 is a pretty cheap price for a lifetime of smiles.
Happy Holidays!
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