Get Into The Spirit Of Fall With Wreaths!

www.countryhome.com

It's amazing how something as simple as a wreath can transform a home and make you feel warm inside at the same time.  Okay, well at least that's what wreaths do for me, especially fall and Christmas wreaths.  There is nothing like a wreath to add instant nostalgia, warmth and seasonal cheer.  Though I personally prefer all natural wreaths like the ones featured in this post, I appreciate them in all styles and mediums. Bring it on!

www.freshhomeideas.com

After such a grueling week with my dad suffering a health crisis, I really needed to relax and just enjoy being surrounded by beautiful things.  Making one of these gorgeous wreaths was a perfect distraction.  My wreath is not quite finished yet but it is coming along and it will be beautiful when it is done.  The good things about it is, it is made from dried natural materials so I can keep it for quite a while.  I decided to add cinnamon sticks to mine so could you imagine how great this will smell....   Well, without further ado, here are some wreath ideas I just had to share with you.  You just can't look at these and not smile or feel happy.  Am not kidding.

Now, don't you feel happier?  I bet you do!

Images featured are from:

www.countryhome.com

www.freshhomeideas.com

www.hottie-biscotti.com

http://robbiehoney.com

Cherio!

No Fear Holiday Glamour

Christmas hands down is my favorite holiday! How could it not be? Once a year I get a free pass to:

• Decorate my home like a palace or mini toy land, no questions asked
• Eat all my favorite foods in ridiculously large portions of course since its Christmas
• Have fun with family and friends......tell off said family and friends, no worries since its the wine! 
• Get days off from work
• Have people shower me with gifts while looking exceptionally fierce in my new outfit.  

As you probably can tell, I totally enjoy just about every aspect of this season, even the crazed panic shopping that occurs when we forget a gift a day or two before Christmas.  As you know, if you've ever braved the "stampede" at your local mall on Christmas eve, this is not for the faint of heart. 

One of the reasons we all shop so much is to buy the items we need to create the look and feel we want for our home or residence.   This look and feeling or AMBIENCE is vitally important.  From the front door to the back you want your guest to feel welcome and full of holiday cheer!  One of the easiest ways to accomplish this is to think of the 5 senses.  Hearing, Tasting, Touch, Smell, Sight. This is what stimulates the average human being and enables us to enjoy an experience.  

SMELL:  Vanilla candles, fresh flowers, cinnamon sticks, and fresh apple pies are all distinct aromas that foster a sense of well being and welcome in a home.

TASTE:  Freshly baked cookies, wine, turkey, ham and all the trimmings are definitely a favorite on this special occasion.

SIGHT:  From a wreath on the front door to the Christmas tree and other festive decoration inside your home, nothing says Christmas better than lights, sparkle and fresh pine!

HEARING:  Classic Christmas  music, I personally love anything by Nat King Cole

TOUCH:  There is nothing better than a good welcome hug!

Holiday decorating does not have to be complicated, it could be as simple as arranging a few candles on a table with some holly leaves or fresh pine.  Now how easy is that, in the end its all about the ambience.

Here are a few links to inspire your holiday decorating:

http://hellobeautiful.com/special-features/holidays-2009/deborah-bennett/how-to-decorate-your-bedroom-this-christmas/

http://curbly.com/diy-maven/posts/7596-fresh-christmas-decorating-ideas

http://www.marthastewart.com/