House in Hidden Hollow: Comin' Down

Our tree was really beautiful this year. Perfect size, perfect shape. The branches were really sturdy and did not droop with heavy ornaments. I admire the people who have coordinating ornaments on their trees; I, however, am not one of those people. I have every ornament my kids have ever made (noodles and cheerios glued to cardboard cut out stars included), plus every ornament I have ever received as a gift. It is a beautiful hodge podge of memories, and I love getting my ornaments out every year and taking that trip down memory lane.

Usually, I leave my tree up until New Year's Day. This year, though, I think she is coming down early. Like today. My allergies can't take it. My nose won't stop running, I have a persistent cough, and my eyes are terribly itchy. Some of this is because it has been above freezing and I am allergic to all of the molds outside, but I have a feeling a big culprit is the lovely tree.

So goodbye tree... how lovely are your branches.

Also coming down are the mantle decorations, as they are made of live boughs as well. Good bye Christmas in the family room. I will leave the rest of the house decorations up through New Year's.

I have been obsessed with mantle decorating lately. I look and look for ideas and change my mind all of the time. Here is my latest obsession...

This is the living room and mantle of one of my favorite bloggers, Nicole, from Me Oh My! She is so creative and has an incredible sense of style, mixing graphic with traditional. I think I am going to paint a large chevron striped painting for my mantle. I am also looking for just the right antler accent. Perhaps a couple of these from Ballard Designs...