The Christmas Wreath

Christmas wreath 2014Throughout the year we have two matching paintings hanging on either side of our dining room window. However, when Christmas comes around I take them down and replace them with hand-crafted wreathes. This year’s wreath is pictured to the right! Unlike last year’s wreath, this one features red bows and bulbs in different colors. I use a plain faux wreath (found at craft stores) and decorate them differently each year. Try using items you already have (bulbs, bows, tinsel, etc.) to decorate your wreathes. Not only does this let you match the decor throughout your home, but also lets you create a unique piece each year. No matter how you decide to decorate your wreath, you’ll be sure to create one that looks great in your space!

A Fall-Inspired Chair

Fall-inspired chairAs I was trying to figure out what I was going to do with the trees I created for Thanksgiving, I began to remove some of the maple leaves from the wall. I decided to stick the leaves on the chair I was standing on (so I didn’t have to keep climbing up and down the chair). Once I was finished, I got off the chair and noticed what turned out to be a brilliant decorating idea. As pictured on the right, I accidentally created a beautiful fall-inspired chair! Isn’t it amazing what can be discovered by accident? This would be the perfect pop for a dining area. Simply affix small maple leaves, poinsettias, snowflakes, or any other holiday-related item to your dining chair. This is not only an inexpensive way to temporarily update your furniture, but also serves to show off your creative genius!

The Aurora Borealis on the Ceiling

Aurora borealis ceilingShortly after Thanksgiving, as is tradition, our Christmas tree was up and on display. When I passed the tree one night I looked up at the ceiling and was amazed at what I saw. As the picture on the right demonstrates, my ceiling looked like the aurora borealis! Not only does this give our ceiling a bit of character, but it also makes a nice picture. You can easily take a similar picture by taking a photo of the ceiling above a lighted tree. Once the picture is taken, you can frame and display it on a shelf along with other winter-related items of a similar hue (bulbs, ornaments, snowflakes, etc.). With all the lights and colors of the season, it’s easy to take inspiration from what’s around you to create a decorating scheme that looks beautiful throughout the entire holiday season!

The Bird in the Backyard

Bird in backyard_unknownYesterday as I was working on my Christmas decorations I was alerted to visitors in the backyard. I looked out and was surprised to see a group of birds having a bite to eat. I’ve never seen this type of bird before (do you know what type it is?), so I decided to take a photo and put it on my blog. I love the different types of wildlife you encounter throughout the year! A photo like this would make a great Christmas gift for anyone that has a passion for birds or nature. Additionally, due to its neutral palette, a picture like this would also look great on a wall in any space. Be sure to stay tuned for great design ideas for the holiday season!

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The First Snow Flurries of the Season

First snow of the season_2014While some parts of the country have been dealing with snowy weather for awhile, we just got our first dusting of snow! I decided to snap a picture of the bush outside my window to capture the event. I love how the dusting of snow stands out against the green leaves of the bush. Many of us are used to seeing photos of a winter wonderland where everything is covered in snow, but you can also enjoy pictures that feature a smaller amount of snow. No matter how much snow your area receives, you can still photograph your own version of a winter landscape!