I’m not much of a change-the-decorations-for-the-season person. I do have a couple Rubbermade containers of Christmas things. Even so, this year I put out less. I’m not sure why, except that I’m trying to embrace the realness that comes when I don’t worry with perfection. So I put out some favorite things and let my wild Christmas tree take up half my living room.
It’s just right for us right now.
Come see a few of my favorites …
I love stockings. And I love these stockings. I found them online somewhere before Ben was born and then found them again to order a fourth when Ben came about a month before Christmas 2009. And, yes, I love that we have a mantel for stockings display.
Speaking of Christmas 2009, this is one of the earliest pictures of us as a family of four. We’d just gotten back from the local Christmas parade, and I had my friend snap the moment. Ben was just 12 days old. It’s become a favorite of mine that stays in that holiday frame and comes out each year.
We have two nativity sets. Both are kid friendly. This Melissa & Doug one is on our mantel, but it’s still be moved around plenty of times by the little hands here.
Our tree is crazy. And I love that about it. I also love all the room underneath the branches. We’ve done Christmas with one side of family, so the gifts for the other side of the family and some friends are waiting. That’s the kids’ Geo Trax Christmas train and Little People nativity in the background. I like that they get to play with it so close to the crazy tree.
What’s your favorite Christmas decoration? Do you put out the same things every year in the same places or mix it up?
Joining The Nester and others from all over the Internet who are giving tours of their homes at Christmas and reminding each other it doesn’t have to be perfect to be beautiful. And linking up with Crystal Stine’s Behind the Scenes.
Take a peek at other previous Christmas posts. The Jesus Birthday Party. Easiest Ornament Craft Ever. Crafting Christmas Coasters. Memories Hang Here.
Want more stories? Like 152 Insights on Facebook. Follow me on Twitter and Instagram. Follow 152 Insights at Bloglovin’. Subscribe to receive “Insights in Your Inbox.”
Such fun to have these tours. I love this link-up idea. I may have to join in. I'm feeling a little crazed this week so we will see. I have close to the same thing for hanging my stockings. I have the "Joy" letters than an additional hook added for the 4th person. I bought new stockings a couple years ago and still need to get the kids names on them. Maybe by next year. 🙂
I still love that Christmas tree.
And so love the family photo.
I basically put up the same decorations every year but do have a few favorites. Yeah…maybe I will be taking a few photos tonight.
Thanks for the tour!
Merry Christmas!!!
Oh, my, your tree! That is the best–all those memories playing underneath those inviting branches! I love this so much, Kristin! Yes, crazy and quirky. Perfect. 🙂 It looks like it is lifting up its arms, in praise!
You find the sweetest beauty in life. Thanks for bringing that blessing here.
I wasn't going to do this link-up either, Beth. But then I read Kristen Strong's post, and I wanted to stay in her house. So I decided to do my own mini version. 🙂 It was fun, and I'm glad I did it. I hope you do at least a little tour too!
I love it…all of it. 🙂 Merry Christmas to you, sweet friend!
And merry Christmas to you, Mel! It's always so good to see your smiling face here.
Love Love Live your crazy tree. I too decided not to put out all my decorations this year. I have just felt the need to slow down and re focus on the true meaning.
Thanks for sharing your Christmas with us
Thanks, Amy! I'm with you, taking the time and energy to focus on what really matters is so important. Merry Christmas, Amy!
I am totally loving that tree! Ours is artificial but the one in your
picture has me almost ready to go buy a real (and wild) one. Those are
some lovely memories you've shared. I thought about doing The Nester's
home tour and talked myself out of it, and now I'm wishing I'd done it.
Maybe next year.
Good to see you here, Barbie! Merry Christmas to you. 🙂