Feeling Festive

Look at me getting all crafty for the holidays! One of my life goals is to be like Martha Stewart, only more exciting. I realize I am a long way from pursuing that, but here's to a start!

Christmas stuff has been on display at the BX since October, so I have been anxious to start decorating. I've been trying to talk myself into putting up the tree, but I think I managed to convince myself that is not a good idea. I remembered the deal with having cats around Christmas time (if you have ever owned a cat and a Christmas tree at the same time, you may know the nuisance of which I speak), and then there's the whole kids thing. I'm sure they will do their best to knock the tree over. Also, our designated Christmas tree area doubles as the kids' play area (and triples as my studio), and our place in general is not very roomy. I can see me having to move the tree around a lot. I will be pleasantly surprised if our plastic aspen makes it through to next year.

So since I am forcing myself to put off the tree trimming until at least the beginning of December, I've been trying to make our home festive in ways that will be easier for me to keep from inevitable destruction. I threw together this lovely centerpiece:

A hurricane filled with potpourri (so it smells festive too!) with a candle in the center. I was pretty proud of this.

And bought some Christmas-y linens:

  Green and red cloth napkins that are more for looks than function (of course), White and gold-striped table runner (I have a giant poppy painting with a touch of gold hanging in my dining room, so this compliments the piece well), and red tablecloth (which is actually just the usual tablecloth, but yay that it works for the holidays!)

I also bought a wreathe for the door, a cute little fake tree that I plan on using in my holiday photo shoots, and a lovely fake poinsettia arrangement:

I feel it should be said that I've been going a little fake-plant crazy lately. I bought 4 for my living room recently. But they really add something to the space without adding anymore responsibility:

As you can see, I have more than enough responsibility around here:

I do believe this pile is made up of our entire wardrobes. Fun for me!

But the laundry can wait until morning. Right now I will bask in the gratification of subtle holiday cheer, and this decadent slice of tiramisu from Macaroni Grill (which I would love to take a photo of so I can be reminded of such sweet bliss for all time, but the camera is downstairs and I am enjoying this little treat in the comfort of my room).

Happy holidays :)