17 Nov 2016 Celebrating the holidays with Rick and Robbie Dunning
Story and photos
by Callie Sterling
Rick and Robbie Dunning reflect on fond memories as they decorate for the holidays. The Dunning home was showcased last year during Harding University’s Women for Harding annual Tour of Homes.
“Decorating for the holidays is a time for memories and reflection for both me and Rick,” Robbie said. “Rick and I both are very thankful that Harding University’s Women for Harding chose our home to showcase in their annual Tour of Homes.”
The traditional holiday decorations in the Searcy home each tell a story. Ornaments fill the Dunning Christmas tree representing family trips and vacations. Other ornaments recognize important events and milestones for the Dunning Family.
“We both are very traditional in what we like, and thus, always have a traditional tree in our home,” Robbie said. “Each ornament on our tree has a story, and I know all of the stories. They may be souvenirs from trips we have taken, or something to commemorate a special event in our lives.”
Some ornaments are recent additions to the Christmas tree, while others are more seasoned. An ornament from Robbie’s early childhood is her personal favorite.
“There are ornaments that date back to my elementary school days; and my favorite one is from when I was in first grade,” she said. “It is always fun to remember the special moments that the decorations represent while we decorate our home.”
The Dunning Family decorated their Searcy home together, along with family friends.
“We did the holiday decorating ourselves with the help of a few friends,” Robbie said. “I had help on the banister arrangement from my dear friend, Liz Howell. I also had help from another close friend, Cindy Hunter.”
Robbie became involved with Women for Harding after moving to Searcy, more than three years ago.
“The work these women do to raise funds for need-based scholarships for students is amazing,” Rick said.
“Each year, our total has grown, and we will continue to strive to help as many students as we can,” Robbie added.
To learn more about the Women for Harding organization visit harding.edu/alumni/women.
