Twelve days and counting

The oddest thing about working in print media is how far ahead of the current calendar day you work on things. Why, before trick-or-treaters were picking out their costumes, we were interviewing businesses about Christmas open houses, holiday wine pairings, seasonal decorating trends, and New Year’s Eve happenings. In this world, January has already flown right on by. In fact, we’re taping a TV segment on Wednesday about Super Bowl party snacks. So that means spring is right around the corner, right?

Wrong! What happened to Christmas? Did I fall into a deep, dreamy sleep and miss it? No way - we still have 12 days to go. Twelve days of shopping, work, wrapping, work, baking, work and preparing for our loved ones’ visit. I am proud to say, though, that I am finally finished with the Christmas decorations.

 Good thing - I’ve only been working on them since September…

Stockings are hung by the chimney with care.

A (new to me) antique sled and maple syrup bucket greet visitors at our door.

My 18-year-old topiary that I revived with new ivy, lights, balls and plaid ribbon.

A rustic urn filled with pine cones and metallic balls adorns the dining room buffet.

A winter scene pillow with birds, holly and poinsettias dresses a side chair.

A wooden bowl with pine cones, fresh  greens and hand-wrapped fabric candy canes fills the
living room with a pine scent.

A stocking dedicated to our four-legged friend.

More fresh greens fill a bowl in the kitchen sitting area.

Wishing you a joyous Christmas season!