Holiday Tablescapes…

I am a little behind on my holiday decorating, since I was out of town last weekend.
I was very excited to go on a girls getaway in Truckee, Ca. - located near beautiful Lake Tahoe.

Truckee, Ca.

We were planning on skiing but since there was no snow - we just spent our time hanging out, shopping, eating,  and catching up!
We talked about our holiday plans…and how much we had left to do to get ready for hosting family and friends.  So, I thought I would post some holiday tablescapes to inspire you - and myself - to get going.
I want to keep things simple as possible this year…a good idea since I am starting a little bit later than usual.

I love the this simple runner of champagne flutes with a single sprig of greenery…and low glass votives.



This is a beautiful runner of candles, paperwhites, and silver painted pinecones. Although, you would have to remove some of the items to make room for serving platters while dining.



I like the use of the natural pine boughs and pinecones on this centerpiece. I collected lots of pinecones last weekend, and plan to use them on my own table this year.



I love the red and white on this table. The glass candle holders, and cloches create sparkle along with the crystal stemware. Notice the use of the red ribbon running along the length of the table…creating its own runner on a simple white table cloth.



Another table with red and white décor. I especially like the way they added the green napkins and natural greenery to the centerpiece made of red ornaments, piled high upon a white ceramic pedestal.



Running taper candles down the center of the table is a simple and charming way to decorate. No need to remove them during your holiday dinner. I love the way candles create a warm glow and how the flames reflect on all of the shiny ornaments and dishes.
Here’s another example…



Now, I think I am almost ready to create my own Christmas Tablescape…after I finish decorating my tree, and mantel, and front porch…

How will you be decking out your table?

all images via Pinterest

Hello Santa...

Today is transition day. Time to put away all of the fall décor – turkeys, pumpkins, fall leaves, etc.


Say hello to Santa, snowmen, poinsettias and garland!



Yes, it is time to drag out all of the holiday decorations and begin to “deck the halls” as they say. In my rush to get everything done quickly, I tend to decorate the same every year. This year I am planning to take my time and use all of my favorite Christmas décor in new and different ways.


Today I plan to work on my front porch and found some great inspiration photos to get me motivated.


Front door wreaths…



I like the way these 3 wreathes are lined up vertically on the single door.



How about using different colored ball ornaments instead of the traditional greenery?



Square wreaths are another fun way to switch up the front door décor.



I have double front doors and like the look of these side by side holiday wreaths.The Gift Box Topiaries are very fun and festive!

I also plan to use some large lanterns on the porch. I had them filled with pumpkins for fall. Now they will look perfect with candles, ornaments, and pine cones.



source



Have you started decorating your home for the holidays? What is your favorite front porch decor?

images via pinterest

Count your blessings...

Good advice for today...and everyday!

view from the car window

I spent the last few days visiting family in Sweet Home, Oregon. We drove up from northern California and had a great time! Its so important to slow down sometimes and remember to be thankful for all the blessings in your life.

A trail covered in fall leaves on our hike to the creek behind Grandmas house...

A moss covered boulder in the river...

Searching for the perfect skipping stone along the shore...

Feeding the Trout at the local Fish Hatchery...

Quality time with family, the most valuable blessing of all...

Happy Thanksgiving!