Happy Hollydays

12-4-06
Happy Hollydays...

Besides the tree, mantle, and staircase there are other ways to dress your home for the holidays. Some left over Christmas cards that are too pretty to toss out can be matted and framed for some inexpensive art. Since they are small in size they would be perfect on a plate stand in a guest bath next to a scented candle and a little greenery. Using this same theme - Gift bags are another source for great cheap art. Often you can find a trio of bags, just cut the scenes out and matte them and frame them. Voila! If you have floral arrangements you can buy floral "picks" at any hobby store and have instant holiday charm. When augmenting any floral arrangement always remember to buy in odd numbers. Add some holiday themed ribbon and you are on your way.

Small glass ornaments tied with satin ribbon can spruce a chandelier. A clear glass vase filled with ornaments and clear lights makes a beautiful addition to an entry table or side table. If you worry about cords, buy cordless lights with battery packs available at home goods stores everywhere.

If you are a DIY decorator - try http://www.recollectionsonline.com/ and look at their holiday ideas. There is a super great paper tree that I am dying to make. If you try it, let me know how it turns out. Other good holiday idea sights are http://www.bhg.com/ and http://www.hgtv.com/.

Hope these few ideas will pique your holiday curiosity and encourage you to experiment in your own home. If you try something that you think really works - send me a picture, I would love to see your successes!

holly.ulmer@comcast.net