As I prepare to get the house ready for the Christmas holiday, I like to look back to see what I did the year before. Over the years, I seem to “decorate” less and less, focusing on a select group of favorite items and adding in a little something new. There are a few things that I always gravitate towards….nutcrackers, santas, Spode Christmas, greenery, antlers/deers and silver.
I typically use the Spode Christmas pattern for breakfasts or informal meals and save the Bernadaud Grenadiers (Nutcrackers) for dinners or more formal meals. The silver sleigh bells that hang from my dining room chandelier were a special gift to my boys, over a number of years, and I enjoy using them, creating memories with them, knowing that one day I will give them each their set.
Savoring the holidays is more important to me than “doing them”. I enjoy a holiday party as much as the next person, but am seeking the quiet days and nights on my calendar so I can calmly listen to holiday music while wrapping gifts or planning special moments for my family.
As you begin to transform your home into the holiday wonderland of your dreams….make time to savor the process. It’s part of the magic of the season.
Cheers to you and the first weekend of this blessed and busy season! Remember….S…A….V…O….R it!
Hi Elizabeth, your home looks just beautiful, so festive with just the right touches. I couldn’t agree with you more, each year I do less and less, and this year will be the same, I am trying to give my daughter some of the decorations so she can enjoy with her family, I have collected so much over the years. I am right with you on just enjoying the season without the stress. Give Molly hugs from us.
Merry Christmas, Elizabeth! Will you please remind us of where your placemats are from? Thank you!
Hi Catherine,
Of course! The placemats are amazing b/c you can just wipe them clean. They are coated linen Parenetisi by La Gallina Matta. I have loved them! I got mine from Protocol (protocolgifts.com), but lots of places have them now.
Would you please tell me what company does your monogramed paper cocktail napkins? I seem to remember a post from a while ago that you had gotten them from somewhere in Dallas. I couldn’t find the information and I have been trying to order some with the large monogram but so far I have had no luck. I love your blog, have been reading and following you for years! Happy Holidays!
Hi Gina,
Yes…of course. I order the monogrammed napkins from Ellis Hill in Dallas. 214-520-6108. They can fix you up!!
Love all of your ideas. An old post had pictures of beautiful red berries in a window box. Where did you get so many berries?
Gayle
Elizabeth, I loved what you wrote! It is about being present and savoring the memories. And I agree … I am decorating with less and with more impact. I hold on to each an every “blog” of yours. Merry! Merry My Friend!
I love the sleigh bell napkin rings. Could you please share where I might be able to purchase? Thanks and Happy Holidays!
Hi Michelle,
Of course. I got them at Bergdorf Goodman a number of years ago. I bet if you call them and ask for the home floor, they can help you. I use them every year!
Hi. I love the sleigh bell napkin rings. Could you please tell me where I could purchase? Thanks!