Home For Christmas

We have decided to stay home for Christmas.   We usually travel every year to see family for the holiday.  We are looking forward to relaxing and enjoying our home.  However, we may sneak off to NYC to Rockefellar Center to see the enormous Christmas tree and do some skating!  Can't wait!

My little built in corner hutch.  There were so many things I wanted to do as far as decorating for Christmas.  Time just flew by and I was distracted by other things.  So, I didn't do that much!  *Note to self....Refer back to this post so you remember how behind you were with decorating in 2009! Start earlier...make plans ahead of time, like in September!

Nutcrackers on the mantel.  Our daughter traditionally receives one after dancing in the Nutcracker every year.  I never pictured decorating with Nutcrackers, but they actually look cute!

My favorite Nutcracker that I bought at Bombay Co. years ago.  His teeth are kind of funny but it is so much fun to unwrap him every year and hang a stocking.

Our Christmas tree...

Looks like we are going to have a white Christmas!  My daughter was wishing for one.  That wish usually comes true here in Massachusetts!

We are all enjoying our new bird feeder!  We really love watching who shows up everyday.  I am so happy that the birds have something to eat during all this cold weather.  The Cardinal and Blue Jay are my favorites!

Turning into a snowman expert!

Maggie, our dog, is a glove thief!  She loves her new treasure!

With all this snow and frigid weather...It is great to end it with a wonderful big pot of chicken soup!

Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas!  We are looking forward to a great 2010!!!!!

Where have the years gone?

~Jamilyn~

*All images property of Living It At Home*

Welcoming Front Door Decorations

I am just loving these front door decorations.  I am a big fan of moss and the wreath above is getting me all worked up!  Of course, Martha knows how to do "simple elegance" best.  The above "living" wreath can be made with plants, and can last all year, but has to be kept out of the sun.  I am thinking that is not going to work for my front door.  It is so beautiful, sigh....

Keeping your decorating simple, really sets the scene for a warm and welcoming entry to your home.

I love to decorate with natural elements.  These large pine cones are inexpensive and just attached to a pretty ribbon.  How simple and easy is that?

A more traditional decoration for a colonial.  I love the look of this house.

You don't have to use inflatables to be festive! {Don't mean to offend if you love using them, but I don't get it...they usually are just lying flat on the ground when not turned on!}  Using "bulb-y" lights on this gate is really a whimsical alternative.

I love the use of light in this picture with torches flanking the entry and candles in the snow.   Great way to say to your guests...come warm yourself in our welcoming home!

I am definitely in the mood to cozy up my home and get ready for Christmas!

Have fun

~jamilyn~

(images from Martha Stewart, Country Living, My Home Ideas)