Sharon Kreitzer takes decorating to extreme

Home filled to overflowing with beach-themed trees, Santas

These are the largest Santas in Sharon Kreitzer's extensive collection. BY RON MACARTHUR

Ron MacArthur

December 28, 2012

This flip-flop tree is one of 20 with a beach theme. BY RON MACARTHUR

This Santa chills out at the beach by reading the newspaper. BY RON MACARTHUR

Colorful parrots cover this party-themed tree in the sunroom. BY RON MACARTHUR

This is just one table of Santa collectibles. BY RON MACARTHUR

Small Santa ornaments cover this tree with Rehoboth Beach theme, including a Dolle's popcorn box. BY RON MACARTHUR

Santa-capped dolphins cover a bed in a guest room. BY RON MACARTHUR

A tree with an ocean theme is covered with shell ornaments. BY RON MACARTHUR

Santa shares some beach goodies with a seagull. BY RON MACARTHUR

One of Sharon Kreitzer's trees contains a collection of Precious Moments ornaments. BY RON MACARTHUR

This Santa is decorating a palm tree. BY RON MACARTHUR

Most people decorate for the Christmas holiday, but few go as extreme as Sharon Kreitzer, who lives near Lewes.

Not only does it take her several weeks to transform her home into a winter wonderland, she maintains a strict beach-related theme in each room. Not just any Santa or tree will do; it has to be tied to the shore in some way.

She has a flip-flop tree, Reboboth Beach tree, shells tree, dolphin tree and beach-themed party tree. Also on display are snow globes, nativity scenes, angels, reindeer and snowmen. But what Kreitzer is most proud of is her extensive beach-themed Santa Claus collection that includes dozens upon dozens of the Jolly Elf in various sizes and shapes.

She started her collection in the 1990s and keeps adding to it when she finds another beach-related ornament or Santa.

Kreitzer also helps spread Christmas cheer as a member of the Tapsations performing group.