Around the cottage in December

Before I decked the halls, we did a mini makeover. This wardrobe had been in the bedroom, but my husband never liked it there because when the doors were open to see the TV, they were in his way. 

So, we moved the tvs and their cabinets from room to room.  Once we did this, I felt that the space next to the cabinet was too empty, so I brought in a column from the studio, and another from the bedroom.  both fit nicely behind the door when it is open and one even peeks over the top. 

I also made a trip to KC's new IKea and got white, netting curtain panels, $2.99 for  a package of two. I bought four sets to replace my lace curtains that were so old they finally shredded (but are now considered craft supplies!!). I love the fullness of having  panels of netting on each window (and the price).

 

 I was happy to have the perfect spot for a winter wonderland forest of trees on giant cabinet. 

And I like the way the columms look from the dining room.

I wasn't as happy with the tv cabinet that got moved to the bedroom, because it held the television too low to see from my side of the bed. But my son is going to build up a box to set it on. I'll have some pictures of that when it is complete.

(by the way, if you ever have to do a switch-a-roo with tvs, I suggest taking a photo of all the wiring on the back so that it is easier to hook them back up again.  With satellite boxes, DVD players and who knows what, all those wires are confusing.  My son did a great job with it all, including drilling bigger holes into the back of the vintage cabinet to fit cords through, when the new box didn't fit where the old one was)

Here is a photo of the kitchen from our luncheon during my craft party/workshop.  I've been thinking about painting my kitchen white, but I am liking the warm creams when I see this picture. I might have to rethink my plan.... But then, I do love the idea of bright white with some pale blue. Everything I own will still match.

That is what is nice about having so much neutral stuff, it goes with anything, I can mix and match pieces from one room into another, and a quick coat of paint can freshen up a look without changing anything else in the room.

The centerpieces were mismatched, matt white pottery vases from garage sales, filled with branches I cut from the yard, a $2 bundle of mark down roses from the grocery store, and poinsettias I cut from a plant I bought.   I love to use the poinsettia blooms as cut flowers in water, instead of leaving them on the plants.  They hold up well, and stay fresh for over a week.

And for one $6 plant, I got enough flowers to add to these four vases, plus plenty were still on the plant, so it will look nice as is. Until I'm ready to pluck them off and replace these blooms as they wilt.  The branches should last the whole season.

In the middle of the table is just a large bowl of glittered pine cones. I figure I have so much going on with holiday decor around the house, I need to keep things simple here and there.

   

Comments

[Sheila Rumney]

I just love seeing your beautiful home decorated for the holiday! Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas!

[jen]

It looks gorgeous Karla!!! And I never knew you could use the poinsettia blooms in cut flower arrangements! Thanks for the tip! Your rooms are so pretty!!

[Karla Nathan]

I found out accidently, myself, Jen! But I do it all the time now. Plus, they are pretty long lasting. The arrangement I did with the roses is still looking good, I left the roses to dry in the vase and really like the combo.

[jeanie]

Simply lovely, Karla. So festive. I've done the cut-up floral plant in the past but had forgotten about it. I think you may have helped me with my holiday table flowers just now!

[Pallas]

Karla, everything looks really beautiful.

[Sandy]

Big SIGH! Love your dreamy decor, so festive and creative. Merry Christmas Karla

[Karla Nathan]

And to you, Sandy!