The party was a hit last night and we had a great turnout - this is what I came up with to get the house ready for everyone - and ourselves.....

Here is the wreath that our neighbor hung for us - it is 3 wreaths in one (regular pine, ferny green then cranberries), all layered together and tied with a black ribbon.   Next year we'll add one more stocking!

I was planning on garlands for the stair banister but couldn't find something that I loved.  Then the comment from my friend Jen (aka "Aunt Spicy") that suggested green ribbon for a wreath got me thinking.  I love the smell of pine and so decided to use real wreaths on the banister since we have an artificial tree.  The lime green ribbon was perfect to add the contemporary and simple touch that I was going for as well as tie it to the railing.

So, I was inspired while at Tai Pan Trading (I know that you all wish you had this store near you) and decided to go for it and decorate the tree.  Part of that inspiration burst came from the fact that my fabulous neighbors came over to help me hang my wreath and while here, set up the tree for me!  They are so awesome and their help made it possible for me to have the time and energy to dive into decorating it instead of just leaving on the lights.  Thank you, Jones'!

I used green berry garlands and loaded down the branches because I loved the color.  I added large silver and red balls (they are glittery styrofoam so no breaking - love them).  I found some bird-shaped mirrors that reflect the lights and other decorations and  for a modern but whimsical addition, I added polka-dot yarn ball ornaments.Since we had a meager pile of about 24 ornaments saved from over the years, my strategy was to create a foundation on the tree with the garland, balls and birds and then add our own memories throughout.  I like the idea of building up our stash of ornaments from places we go or experiences we have and adding them to the tree as time goes on.  Our Mickey and Minnie ornaments from Disneyland last week are the latest additions!

No great thing is created suddenly.  - Epictetus

Since Jason's car accident we have spent many Christmases in the hospital or in spaces too tight for many decorations.  But now that we have our own home again and a year of no hospital stays, I have learned something.  A tree, a fireplace, a banister, a countertop....they are all creative canvases.Creativity is a gift we give ourselves as we exercise our imaginations, make our plans and gather the pieces and parts to create a beautiful whole.  An opportunity to create can be found anywhere - it's our choice to take the time to embrace it.What are you creating these days?