In times of uncertainty, overall turmoil and distress, I find it comforting, soothing and healing to spent holidays with my family. I think almost everyone feels the same way. Getting ready for this holiday season is like a ritual revered with great dearness. The awaiting period makes me feel like a child all over again, especially now that I have children of my own.
I watched my son’s eagerness (he’s five and a half now) to decorate our Christmas tree and although, we use the same ornaments almost every year for the past six years (plus or minus a few) it felt different. Partly because this will be my daughter’s first Christmas. (I should mention that last year due to some pregnancy issues, I wasn’t in a condition to decorate a tree).
Naturally, our eagerness this year was amplified. We love our tree though it’s not perfect. Most of its ornaments have a story to tell and that makes them special to us. (One of them is over 35 years old, some others I baked them and hand-painted them with my son three years ago).
Anyway, this year I’m hoping to catch up with friends and family and enjoy some quality time with those dearest to me – my children and husband. I would also love to find a little free time to work on my oil paintings.
You see I have these floating ideas in my head lately and I feel like I’m about to burst if I don’t start putting them down on canvas! Inspiration has struck me! I already went out the other day and bought the canvas and the rest of the supplies. All I have to do now is to sit and do it!
Christmas dining is huge this time of the year, being an excellent opportunity for some well spent with your loved ones. Don’t forget that no matter how much or how well you “stage” your home for these holidays, the greatest thing of all is to wear is your brightest smile – no matter what – and count your blessings!
Just as a small reminder, so that your decorating doesn’t get out of hand, remember that it is best to swap out a few unnecessary items. That way you will contain the clutter that tends to spoil your home’ styling. Group together your decor for more impact. Layer it! Think both in horizontal and vertical terms. Remember the basics: cinnamon sticks, candles, acorns, pine branches, nuts, berries, baubles and lights, lights, lights might be all you need! Simplicity is always an unbeatable classic value!
Merry Christmas,
P.S. After the holidays I’ll be posting special features starting with RUGS – a design element that holds a lot of magic when it comes to transforming a space!