Harvest Lane Cottage Christmas Decorating ~ Do's and Don'ts

Dear Readers,

I was recently asked about my Christmas decorating style. We have a humble home, but Christmas is the perfect time make our home festive. I have a do with whatcha got attitude about decorating, but I enjoy watching for treasures at yard sales and in thrift shops throughout the year. I also enjoy making things. Although this may be a bit late, I wanted to share how I add Christmas cheer to our home.

• My Christmas decorating style includes many handmade items. I think that handmade makes things cozier. I dream of Christmas quilts for every bed. I enjoy making Christmas ornaments for my four children and for friends.
• Books! We have lots and lots of Christmas books. All the festive colors brighten things up quite a bit.
• Candles. There's just something about candlelight that makes things cozy.
• I just love rich red poinsettias.
• Snowmen and snowflakes cover my tree and are scattered around the house.
• I have lots of yearly ornaments from a lifetime with my husband and children.
• Deep reds and dark greens
• Music—instrumental (like Jim Brickman) or Bing Crosby style Christmas music are my favorites. Christmas music plays in my home from Thanksgiving Eve through New Year's Day... sometimes even earlier. Yes. Playing music is decorating for our ears!

Once upon a time, I used bright Christmas red and green. It was all about Santa Claus. That changed a few years ago when all my decorations were in storage at Christmas time. Now I like deeper reds and greens, poinsettias, snowmen, and snowflakes. I sense I may be making more changes soon, but I'm not sure what they'll be yet.

You're not supposed to notice the mess. Real life happens here. 

Decorating Do's and Don'ts

Do:

• Focus on the truth of Christmas—Jesus as Savior of the world. Emmanuel. God with us.
• Forget about the trends! Do what you and your family like. Old-fashioned? Who's to say? If you build your decor around what you like, it's not out-of-date until you say it is.
• Fun. Add a little whimsical to your decor. If you like snowmen, use them. If you like candy and sugar plums, use them. If you like Santas, use them. If you like angels, use them. Use whatever brings you joy when you see it.

Don't:

• Forget to enjoy decorating. It's a pleasure not just a job. Put on the music, sip the cider or eggnog, and have fun.
• Do it all yourself. Get your family or friends involved.
• Do it the same every year. Using your decorations in different places and in different ways keeps things fresh.

Happy Christmas time everyone!

Blessings,

Laura

Art of Homemaking

Christmas Countdown
Daily Cup of Mrs. Olsen
Mommy Monday
Modest Mom