Putting House Back to Normal

 Even though I think about leaving Christmas decor up during January days, I find myself ready for back to normal. But what a difference! This den tree came down yesterday as well as all other decorations. The plan is for the other big tree to come down Friday. No longer do I try to do it all in one day.

I just hope I get to unpack them again in twelve months.

Parade of Ornaments

Whether fancy or simple ornaments are delightful objects that can be full of meaning. There are a few repeats in this bunch. And, of course, I didn't try to include them all. Number 5 and 7 are new this year. Pennee gave me the Home ornament when she was here for Thanksgiving. The painted wood ornament with Joseph, Mary, and Baby Jesus was a lovely find at Boatwright Pharmacy.

Decorations, Part 3

Christmas decorating is such a fun part of the season. 

I have a few more, but you get the idea. I love Christmas decorating! With most of the decorations I have memories that go with them. That's what makes them so special.

Decorations, Part 2

Since I keep moving things around, some of my Christmas decorations change from one day to the next. But then some things stay put.

I have a fondness for Christmas trees of all kinds and enjoy grouping them in different ways.

I moved the Santa with a sack full of toys to the hall tree so I could place this skating Santa on the hutch. 

I've always admired this Santa from the first time I spotted it in a Bartlett gift store years ago. Well, I discovered TODAY it's musical. I had completely forgotten about the key on Santa's back that is hidden by his scarf.

I keep the entry rack about the same every Christmas.

I bought some floral sprays this year to add to this dough bowl arrangement.

Grandson Lucas had a birthday on December 8th so he made sure his favorite item ( the puppy in a camouflage stocking)went up on the advent calendar. I hadn't planned to use the calendar this year, but Lucas asked about it before his birthday. So, of course, I made sure it was up and ready for him.

I think I may need a Part 3 to show a few more decorations. I also want to do a post on ornaments. I found several inexpensive ones when I went treasure hunting at Abandoned Antiques in Millington. Sometimes you need a few hours away from the house. I love to take my time and browse the different booths. That's my favorite form of relaxation.

Decorations, Part 1

  Other decorations that brighten my days here at home...

The Event of Christmas

 Even before I decorated our trees with ornaments I did the mantel. This year I made the focus on the nativity story and event.

From One Holiday to the Next

The Thanksgiving holiday was lovely with our kids and grandkids. It takes two tables(actually three) to accommodate 0ur family. Even though I like using real dinnerware, my husband insists on mostly throwaway.

Our Nine Grandchildren

Jasmine, Garrett, Telsey. Gunner, Nick, Lucas

Chloe, Kiera, and Tallulah

All the pumpkins and fall decorations are put away. Now to focus on what I want to use for Christmas. It will be several days before the trees go up. On Saturday afternoon I helped decorate the tree at church.

Today I'm thankful for another birthday. Every day is a blessing!