It’s the week before Christmas, and although the to-do list is long this time of year, I’m looking forward to next week. I’ve carved out a few small pockets of time for my favorite pastime: puttering.
I decorate for Christmas in phases—adding subtle winter touches, a bit of greenery and some lights—then slowly build from there as inspiration strikes. Too much change at once overwhelms me, so I move at a pace that preserves my sense of peace.
How my home feels and how I feel in it matters deeply. Even after sharing my home online for nearly 20 years, I don’t style it like a showroom. It’s our sanctuary. As a true homebody, I enjoy small tweaks—little changes that fit our everyday life and honor the season.
Here are a few glimpses of simple Christmas touches I’ve added around the house. I’ll share a fuller Christmas tour next week and our annual Christmas video after the holiday so I can include real family moments—our kids and grandbabies will all be here and I can’t wait.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or disappointed by unfinished plans this season, I recorded a short pre-Christmas pep talk called “Just Because You Can, Doesn’t Mean You Should.” That little mantra has helped me stay calm and focused, and I hope it encourages you too.
I’d love for you to join our virtual Wintering for Homebodies retreat and the new Room Recipe Workshop that begins in January—more details coming soon.
By the way, is anyone else still finishing gift shopping? I have a few items left to find. For quick ideas, check my last-minute gift suggestions for things our family uses and loves.
I’d already styled this area for Christmas, but my mix of plates changes often and I recently added a small antique wintery creamer I’ve kept for years.
Sources include a dish set on a rack, green floral plates and bowls, and several similar white house decorations and platters that complement the display.
I placed our blue and white nativity scene—the reason for the season—on a shelf where it can be seen and appreciated daily.
Around it I’ve added simple paper trees and a pleated lampshade to enhance the cozy, reflective feel.
Last week I was inspired to tuck a few sprigs of red berries into the chandelier, which was already dressed with cedar garland and plaid ribbon I put up before Thanksgiving. Small additions like these make a big visual impact without overwhelming the room.
We recently hung fresh evergreen garland on the porch and added stars that twirl in the breeze. Seeing them move with the wind brings such quiet joy.
I shared more about the porch and front door decorations in a recent post, where I describe how to layer natural greenery with simple accents for a welcoming entry.
On the staircase I added garland, a black-and-white striped ribbon and a gold star garland. It’s understated but charming—exactly the look I wanted.
On the mantel I placed a brass bunny and fox bowls, then layered copper string lights for a warm glow. Our blue velvet stockings are up (so far the dogs aren’t interested!), and I added beloved needlepoint Santa stockings we’ve kept for years. I also hung painted shells with the stockings—I’ll include photos in the Christmas tour.
Velvet stockings were purchased previously; similar needlepoint Santa stockings are great timeless options.
I use flameless votive candles on a timer so they come on automatically as it gets dark. I’ve been enjoying turning on the string lights in the early morning for an extra cozy start to the day.
If you missed it, I shared all the mantel details in a recent mantel post with links to florals and greenery ideas for a coastal cottage Christmas mantel.
I’ll share more photos and ideas next week during our Christmas tour.
Thank you for stopping by for my Christmas puttering! 🙂
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Find sources from my home and curated gift ideas in my shop for easy holiday shopping.