This Christmas, gift a memorial shadow box you’ve thoughtfully assembled for someone you love.
During the holidays, we find ourselves cherishing memories of loved ones who have passed. Indeed, a favorite ornament, beloved recipe, cherished photo or treasured article of jewelry can bring their memory close again.
So we light candles, hang stockings and share stories. And as we move into a new year, we can carry these precious memories with us all year long, simply sparked by a memorial shadow box.
Selecting a Shadow Box
All in all, the items you wish to place in the memorial shadow box will determine its size. A variety of sizes, depths and finishes are available, especially online and at craft stores.
Given that, I chose an 11 x 14-inch black shadow box with a diamond-edged door and vintage lock. What’s more, the depth of the shadow box is 1.5 inches. If you wish to include some three-dimensional items in your memorial box, it’s important to have some depth.
What to Put in a Memorial Shadow Box
Now when you decide to gift a memorial shadow box, you may find it challenging to decide what actually should go in it. A photo of the person or couple you’re remembering is a good place to start. In addition, you may want to include a personal effect or two: a piece of jewelry, handkerchief, glasses, etc. A note or recipe in the person’s handwriting is also a nice touch. Or a favorite flower, pressed, small souvenir or ticket from a once-in-a-lifetime trip. The list goes on and on.
Assembling Memories for a Memorial Shadow Box
My grandparents, John and Emma Jacoby, came to the United States as young children and were married in 1929. Without reservation, I decided to center their memorial shadow box on their wedding picture. From my grandma’s flapper-style dress and finger-wave hairstyle to my grandpa’s bow tie, this ’20s classic captures their early years. To add depth and texture and accent the tulle in my grandmother’s bouquet, I surrounded the photo with white tulle.
Another item I chose to include is an abalone locket ring holding tiny photos of my grandparents approximately in their 40s.
What’s more, a handful of family recipes have stood the test of time. Here I’ve included the recipe for nut strudel, in my mother’s handwriting. Without reservation, my sister makes at least one batch every Christmas season for family and friends to enjoy. This nut strudel recipe can be found in “Bronner’s Flavorful Favorites” staff cookbook.
Although they both look pretty serious in their wedding picture, my grandparents wedding was a time of love and joy. Hence, I added two unique lace ornaments from a set of three. As can be seen, designers framed “Peace,” “Love” and “Joy” within the center of circular snowflakes. Hand-crafted of fine, white thread in Germany, the lace ornaments remind us of the Volga German heritage of our ancestors. Over time, they emigrated from Germany to southeastern Russia and eventually to the USA.
On a separate note, I wondered how I should secure items in the memorial shadow box. Then I found nearly a dozen hat pins secured in a folded hanky belonging to my paternal grandmother, Esther Kramer. I solved the dilemma, after all. I was happy to include the hat pins in the memorial shadow box.
Nut Strudel Recipe
Nut Strudel
Equipment
- 1 medium saucepan
- 1 wooden spoon
- measuring cups
- measuring spoons
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 medium mixing bowl
- 1 Rolling Pin
- 1 large cookie sheet
- parchment paper to line cookie sheet
Ingredients
Dough
- 1 1/2 c. milk
- 2 pkgs. dry yeast
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1 tsp. sugar
- 1 c. shortening
- 4 c. flour
- 1 egg
Filling
- 2 c. nuts, chopped
- 1/2 c. white sugar
- 1/2 c. brown sugar
- milk Stir together nuts, white sugar and brown sugar. Sprinkle with milk – enough to moisten.
Instructions
- Heat milk in saucepan to scalding. Cool to lukewarm.
- Pour half of the milk in a large bowl; add yeast and stir until dissolved. Stir in remaining milk, salt, sugar and shortening. Gradually stir in flour. Add egg and mix well.
- Chill in refrigerator for half an hour.
- Divide dough in 2 parts and toll each into a square. Spread filling over each. Roll up jelly-roll style.
- Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 35 minutes or until brown.
These sprig dishware pieces and linens are a new favorite of mine. By all means, think Bronner’s for festive home decor and gifts!
More Sweet Treats!
For another traditional Christmas favorite, try our almond crescent cookie recipe. What’s more, you’ll find over 2 dozen holiday cookie recipes at our virtual Christmas cookie exchange. Be sure to check the comments there for recipes!
