The countdown to December 25th is clear. The neighborhood looks like a traveling Christmas exhibition from Vegas. Store windows are frosted with snow shot from an aerosol can and loud holiday signage. Years ago I found that decorating for the season was less stressful when I deviated from the conventional. Nothing against Santa but you will not find his appearance from a red felt hat or ornament in my home though stories about Saint Nick are encouraged. Blinking colored lights should be saved for a hotel vacancy sign. I choose items that I’d decorate for the winter season that happen to be intended for a major holiday.

A crochet advent calendar from Garnet Hill with numeral pockets start the festive momentum each morning.
Stay true to the design and colors of your home then flourish with supporting details.
- Holiday favors are decorative touches.
- The simple beauty in burlap, twine and string.
- Roses are as festive as pine and poinsettia.
Creating a gingerbread home has a dual purpose as a fun activity that adds to the decor. Simple eco-friendly lessons are learned from decorating with household items, like twine and burlap, over shiny paper.
- A gingerbread home is classic yet cheerful.
- Brush trees are adorable touches that command a vignette.
- Colorful twine for holiday wrapping needs also add color and simple style.
Even our tinsel tree fits the bright theme of the family room and decorated with with coordinated metallic ornaments.
- A tinsel tree brightens a room.
- Crowd a tree with like-minded decorations.
- Shimmery tree trimmings follow the home’s style.
- Ornaments moonlight as decorative accessories for a vignette.