For the past few years I’ve intentionally kept my Christmas decorating very simple. I’m not someone who loves elaborate crafting or collecting lots of seasonal items; instead I prefer more being and less doing — and to reuse what I already own whenever possible.
To be honest, I hardly store a lot of holiday items anymore. The few decorations I use regularly fit on a shelf or in a single basket, ready to pull out each year. I usually add a bit of fresh greenery, arrange things differently, and call it done.
I do admire the vintage ornaments and beautiful vignettes I see around the web — they’re inspiring and lovely. But right now I’m not in a season of collecting more. Budget considerations and having two playful puppies at home also make me cautious about accumulating fragile or numerous decorations.
One thing I’ve noticed is how often I reach for the same small items year after year. Case in point: these cardboard letters. Maybe next year I’ll mix things up, but I’ve enjoyed the contentment that comes from using what I already have.
These cardboard letters, which I bought at JoAnn’s, have been reliable and versatile. Last year I jazzed them up with washi tape. This year I replaced the O with a small boxwood wreath I found at West Elm. The first year they stayed plain cardboard — simple and charming in their own way.
Next year I might paint them or add a new washi pattern. Or perhaps I’ll retire them and try something different. Either way, they remind me that real joy at the holidays doesn’t have to come from extravagant decorations — even ordinary cardboard letters can bring warmth and meaning.
By then they may even feel like “vintage cardboard letters” since I’ve used them for several seasons — a small, personal tradition.
Today is the last day of the five-day Holiday Housewalk hosted by Jen Rizzo.
Come tour my Christmas home at The Inspired Room.
Have you been enjoying the Christmas house tours?
I can’t wait to share my front porch and a fun project with you next week.
The “Joy to the World” print I used is part of Jones Design Company’s holiday art collection.
