Holiday Entertaining

Getting into that Holiday Spirit yet? I hit it about Halloween time. Yes, I'm that person you hate. The one who is encouraging  shopping malls to begin this wonderful season earlier and earlier... I can't help it! To quote the Muppet Chirstmas Carol (because that is what I am watching as I blog) "Have you ever noticed that everything seems wonderful at Christmas?" Don't get me wrong, my husband stresses out about the long list of gift exchanges that we shop for and he really can't stand the smell of cinnamon sticks (if you put them in a little teapot or pot at the back of your stove filled halfway with water, two or three cinnamon sticks, heat on low) but we are both suckers for Christmas music. Is it not the most refreshing change from "look at how awesome I am with all my awesome stuff" to "Love, peace on earth, happy birthday Jesus"?

Now the question comes in, for a southerner who is newly wed, with only a few pennies to rub together, how does one decorate for a Norman Rockwell Christmas? Simple. Keep it simple. White lights (which are always classic) and greenery. Now garland can get expensive, but if you ask the location where you get your tree for their extra cuttings, they typically give them away. These are the few extra branches at the bottom of each Christmas tree that get cut off so the tree can fit in the stand. So greenery and white lights. Now what about that Christmas glow? White/cream candles are always beautiful and cast a very flattering light. Apparently the best light for you and your guest is a glow! Another great idea on RealSimple.com is for a centerpiece that only requires sticks, spray paint, and a glass vase. YOu could even go really simple with just unpainted branches or some of those free Christmas tree branches in a vase. There are several really great money saving ideas on RealSimple.com for those of us on a budget this year. Just remember something that is always free and beautiful for the season is some love and kindness. Happy Holidays to you and your loved ones!