A Little Bit of Christmas

Though I was behind on everything Christmas this year, I just had to do a bit of decorating. Frank and I are staying home this year and won't be with my family for the first time. Since it's already a different kind of Christmas, without decorations I was afraid it wouldn't feel like Christmas at all. I only used what I had easily accessible. I was in luck that I had lazily stashed some ornaments under our bed after bringing them home from mom and dad's house earlier this year. The only thing I pulled out of the attic were the lights.

Here is our mantle area after decorating.

The stockings were made by my Amma and hung at her house. Frank gets the big one (in the dark on the left), and all of his presents might fit in there!

My Pawpaw made these little deer. Aren't they sweet?! The red glass candle holder is new to me, but was apparently a wedding gift to my Amma and Papa. My sister in law has the mate to this one. I didn't think it was my style, but on the green glass plate it is perfect for Christmas. I think I will pack it away and just bring it out this time of year.

The crystal candlesticks were Amma's as well. Again, I didn't think they were me at first, but after cleaning them up I think they are beautiful. They look very Art Deco to me, and I love the way the Christmas lights look shining through.

These ornaments were made by my Granny.

Most of my ornament collection is blown glass.
I usually get a couple of new ornaments each year.

This year I picked out the Penguins for Frank

And the Red Bird for me because it reminds me of Granny

A soft pretzel because I thought it was cute and I love to make and eat them, silly I know.

And this one just cause its pretty!

There are lots of ornaments and Christmas decorations that my mom made too, but none of those were within easy reach this year. I'm tempted to purchase an artificial tree on clearance this year. I have plenty of ornaments to fill up a full size one!

I'm spending the day cleaning the house, prepping for Christmas brunch and dinner and eventually wrapping presents. I was trying not to leave the house today, but I do think I will have to after all.

I'm going to post my Christmas dinner recipes later in case you are interested in making them too. I hope you are enjoying this time of year and are not too stressed out.
xoxo