Handcarved Christmas

Photos by SKEEBO

Every year, every member of Randy and Mindy Ramsey’s family receives a Christmas ornament or figurine that is handcarved by Mindy’s father, Bill Parker, and handpainted by her mother, Benita Parker. These holiday treasures have great meaning for the Ramsey family, but are only the tip of the proverbial Christmas tree when it comes to holiday décor.

Every room in the Ramsey home is highlighted by a Christmas tree. As soon as you enter the home’s gracious foyer, you are struck by the two-story Christmas tree situated perfectly near the curving staircase. The formal living room, dining room, kitchen and office are each highlighted by trees that are situated just so.

“Christmas is my favorite time of the year. It always has been,” Mindy said. This love of the holiday has grown over the years. “Every room is filled with decorations, and we’ve added to them each year, she said.”

The Ramseys’ love of Christmas has spread throughout their family. “Our sons received a nutcracker every year.” Her niece, when asked to draw a picture symbolizing Christmas, drew a picture of the Ramsey home.

The Ramseys are looking forward to spreading their Christmas cheer to the rest of Temple as a participant in the Yuletide Tour of Homes, an event organized by the Temple Children’s Museum.

“Christmas just makes me feel happy inside,” Mindy said. “We wanted to be part of the tour just because we love Christmas so much.”

If you know of an interesting Bell County home Tex Appeal readers would like to look inside, email editor@texappealmag.com.