Deck the Halls

Every year I say I'm going to cut back on my Christmas decorating, to just get out a few things. It always seems overwhelming before I get started because, over the years, I've accumulated so many Christmas decorations. What was I thinking when I started a music box collection for my oldest son and a Nutcracker collection for my youngest? Why in the world do I have three cabinets full of Santas? Does anyone really need this much sugared fruit?

But then I get started and I think, "Well, it won't be so much trouble to put a garland here and a swag there, and before you know it, every mantle is swathed in pine boughs and cedar, and every cupboard is decked in magnolia and ivy. And then I remember why I collected all of this to begin with: because I love it when the house is twinkly and bright. So, I never cut back, and I never simplify, and I never regret the time and effort it takes. I decorate for Christmas because it makes me happy to be surrounded by things that remind me of the spirit of Christmas, of love and warmth and family and home. I hope you have a Merry Christmas and that you too are surrounded by love and warmth of family and home.


















for Created By Hand, Inspiration Avenue, and the Three Muses