Happy To Design

Valentine's 2012 at Happy To Design

2012-01-27T16:06:00.005-07:00

Hello my friends...I hope you're having a fabulous day!

As you are reading this...I am on my way to Texas to be with my

family. As many of you know, my Dad was diagnosed with lung cancer

over the Christmas holidays. He is not doing well at all and it's time that I

went to be with him and my family. I sooo appreciate all of the kind words and

prayers that you have sent to me and my family...thank you!!! Your love and

support mean the world to me. I would just like to say that my Dad knows

the Lord and has served Him for many...many years. He is ready to go

home. Even in light of this...the coming days will be very difficult so

please keep praying for my dad and my family.

Thank you, dear friends!

On a lighter note...

A few days ago, I took a few photos of Valentine's day at my place.

The Christmas decor of my dining room buffet has now evolved

into Valentine's day decor. I really haven't done much...just a few simple

changes here and there. Since I already had the photos, I thought that I

would share them with you. I hope that you enjoy!

Warmest wishes to you and yours for a Happy (early) Valentine's Day!!!

Here we are...in my french country dining room.

The buffet is all dressed up and ready to celebrate the "day of love"!

The photos are pretty self-explanatory...so I'll just shhhhsh and let you

take a look around.

I crafted this heart tree for my Christmas buffet...we celebrated

a Swedish Christmas.

The beautiful heart ornaments are made of mercury glass.

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The red hearts laying on the tray are cookie cutters.

A white ceramic tray filled with mercury glass ornaments and

a couple of vintage silver heart shaped cookie cutters serves as a

Valentine's day centerpiece for the dining room table.

I love mercury glass...pretty, pretty for the cold wintery months!

Oooh...bejeweled mercury glass! Does it get any better? Hehe!

Happy Valentine's Day, sweet friends!

~Be Still My Heart~...A Valentine Place Setting

2012-01-25T13:03:00.001-07:00

Hello my friends...I hope you're having a fabulous day!
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I am doing pretty good...still trying to get "caught up" after my
trip to Texas. For those of you who follow my blog, you know that
my Dad was diagnosed with cancer over the Christmas holidays. He is
not doing well and it is thought that the cancer is spreading rapidly. With
all that is going on, I am having a difficult time getting back to blogging.
I sure do appreciate your patience and all of the prayers that you are
sending my family's way. You sooo touched my heart with all the
sweet notes that you left for me on my last post. Thank you, from
the bottom of my heart, dear friends! You guys are the best!!!
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On a more "upbeat" note...I did finally get all the Christmas decor
taken down and put away at my place. Eeeks...it's nearly
February...guess it's about time. Hehe!
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Today I thought I would share with you a Valentine post from
last year....called "Be Still My Heart". This is the first Valentine place
setting in a series of three. I hope to share the other two...later on.
I hope that you enjoy!
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~Be Still My Heart~
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With Valentine's Day just around the corner, I have been doing a little
"dish playing"! I have been playing with a few different place settings for
a Valentine table. So far I have done three different table settings. I haven't
quite decided yet...which one that I will use for Valentines Day. In the
meantime, I thought I would share one of the place settings...called
"Be Still My Heart". I hope that you enjoy!
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Here we are...in my french country dining room.
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I really do enjoy creating Valentine tablescapes! As you can
see...the walls in my dining room are a deep red color...making
Valentine decorating a cinch! Hehe!

Several weeks ago, I decorated my dining room buffet for
winter...adding a little Valentines Day flair to the vignette.
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A red, white, and silver color theme for the buffet's decor

with a little greenery thrown into the mix. A white metal bird cage,
silver candlesticks, mercury glass finials and orbs...just sing an "Ode to
Valentine's Day"...and then....there are the cherubs!
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What is Valentine's Day without cherubs?

This sweet cherub is made out of masonary and is quite

heavy. He is holding a pretty silver satin ribbon with a key.

Ahhhh...the key to my heart!

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The place setting for "Be Still My Heart" was created around the

buffet vignette and the exsisting table centerpiece.

If you would like to see more of my buffet vignette and table centerpiece

(the how to's)...just click HERE.

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Shimmering siver and a deep rich red make for a very romantic
table...don't you think?
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"Be Still My Heart" Place Setting....
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A silver charger plate with embossed roses around the rim.
A solid, deep red colored dinner plate.
A white dinner plate with a silver "ringed" rim.
A solid, deep red colored salad plate.
A red toile dessert plate.
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Layers and layers of pretty plates!
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And...the place setting is topped with a mercury glass heart
with swirly...twirly...white organza ribbon!
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Ahhhh...be still my heart!
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I found the pretty red toile dessert plates at TJ Maxx last
year...this is the first time that I have used them! Something
new...and something special for Valentine's Day!
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The manufacturers mark says "Queen's" (with an ensigna of a crown)
Est. 1795...made in Malaysia.
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Ahhh...red toile with beautiful bucolic scenes!

Definitely one of my favorite things!

Stemware...embossed with beautiful winter scenery!

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A rich, red colored satin dinner napkin to coordinate with

the place setting.
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You know...I think every color looks pretty with silver, but dark

red paired with silver is my favorite!

Using one of my favorite silver teapot napkin rings.

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A pretty stack of extra dessert plates and a cherub to serenade us!

A second mercury glass heart decorates the stack of dessert plates!

I found these pretty ornaments at Hobby Lobby a few years ago. I have

used them so many times in my teas and tablescapes...they are definitely

one of my favorite things!

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Another pretty ornament sits at the feet of the cherub.
Oooh...so silvery...so frenchy!

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I wanted a few photos of the mercury glass heart with the
deep red dinner napkin. They really do make a beautiful picture...
don't you think?

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"Be Still My Heart"

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Well my friends...I hope you enjoyed the "Be Still My Heart"
Valentine place setting! I sure had fun creating it! I hope to share
the other Valentine place settings that I have been working on soon.
So stay tuned! I love playing dishes! Hehe!
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I am joining these fabulous parties...
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Open House Party...hosted by Sherry over at No Minimalist Here.

Tablescape Thursday...hosted by Susan over at Between Naps on the Porch.
Feathered Nest Friday...hosted by Courtney over at French Country Cottage.
Home Sweet Home party...hosted by Sherry over at The Charm of Home.
Potpourri Friday...hosted by Honey over at "2805".
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Thank you, dear ladies for hosting these great parties for us!

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Well dear friends, thank you so much for coming by today!
I always enjoy your visits! Please leave me a note and let me know
that you were here...I would love to visit with you!
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Warmest Wishes!

Honey...I'm Home!

2012-01-14T12:50:00.000-07:00

Pictured from left to right...my daughter Lisa, me, my daughter Aimee, and my daughter Jenni.

Christmas 2011 with my family in Texas

A photo of all three of my daughters and their families. All of my grandchildren were present with

the exception of my oldest grandson Tony Jr. who had to report back to his duty station in Arkansas.

We were having dinner at a fabulous seafood restaurant located at Corpus Christi Bay. There was

a total of 17 of us! I loved it!!!

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Hello my friends...I hope that you're having a fabulous day!

Wow...I bet you guys thought I dropped off the face of the earth!

I apologize for not posting before now. I have just been busy with life!

As many of you know...honey and I recently made a trip to Texas to spend the

Christmas holidays with all of my family. I had a wonderful time getting to have

Christmas with all of my children and grandchildren. It had been many years since

we were able to be "all together" for Christmas. We were able to spend an entire

week just catching up...and I loved every minute of it!

As much as I enjoyed all the Christmas festivities with my daughters and their

families, it was a difficult trip as well. Just before leaving for Texas, I received

news that my Dad has cancer. My Dad has suffered with several health issues and

because of this, he is unable to receive treatment for the cancer. My folks also live

in Texas so I was able to visit with my Dad nearly everyday while he was in the

hospital. These things are never easy. I sure would appreciate your prayers

for my Dad and Mom and the family.

Well...as you can see...I have had a lot on my mind and life has kept me busy!

In fact, Christmas is still up at my place. Yes, you heard that right. The Christmas

tree with all the trimmings and all the Christmas decor is still up. I just haven't

been able to "catch up" after our Texas trip. Hopefully I can get caught up on

everything soon. Last week I missed hosting the Sunday Favorites party. I'm

sooo sorry! I am cancelling the Sunday Favorites party until further notice.

Thank you so much for your understanding and patience with me!

I just wanted to let you know that even though I may not be posting...I will

still be visiting with you and checking out all of your fabulous creativity! I have

missed you, my friends! I really do hope to be "back up and running" soon!

Have a wonderful weekend!

Warmest Wishes...

2011 Christmas Home Tour Finale

2011-12-19T09:22:00.005-07:00

Warmest Christmas Wishes!

Today I thought I would take you on a photo tour of our 2011 Christmas

home. I just want to warn you...there are alot of photos...so grab a cup of hot

cocoa and a Christmas cookie (or two).

I hope that you enjoy!

The 2011 Christmas tour will begin

in the living room.

~Silver Symphony~

2011 Christmas Mantel

If you would like to see more of the ~Silver Symphony~

Christmas mantel...just click HERE.

A Christmas vignette in the living room.

The sparkling white and shimmering silver color theme continues

in a Christmas vignette for the living room window.

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If you would like to see more of my living room's

Christmas vignettes...just click HERE.

Moving into the dining room...

Our 2011 traditional red, white and green Christmas tree.

~God Jul~

(Merry Christmas)

Our dining room is hosting a Swedish Christmas this year!

A Swedish Christmas table centerpiece.

If you would like to see more of my Christmas dining room and

the Swedish Christmas centerpiece...just click HERE.

A Swedish Christmas buffet!

Lots of red and white...and lots of hearts...

a "must have" for a traditional Swedish Christmas!

If you would like to see more of my Swedish Christmas

buffet...just click HERE.

~God Jul~

Merry Christmas

Thank you so much for coming by! I hope that you enjoyed the

tour of my 2011 Christmas home!

As many of you know, Honey and I are heading to Texas this week

to spend Christmas with my family. I'm soooo excited!!! It has been a long

time since all of my family has been together for Christmas. Soooo...I'm taking a bit

of a blogging break. This will be my last post of 2011. I will be back to see

the new year in! Wow...can you believe that it's nearly 2012? Where

does the time fly to?

Well dearest friends...warmest wishes to you
and your family for a wonderfully sweet and blessed
Christmas! I will see you soon!

Warmest Christmas Wishes!

I am joining these fabulous parties...
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Metamorphosis Monday...hosted by Susan over at Between Naps on the Porch.
Table Top Tuesday...hosted by Marty over at A Stroll Thru Life.
Open House Party...hosted by Sherry over at No Minimalist Here.
Room by Room Christmas Tour Party...hosted by Cottage and Vine.
2011 Christmas Tour of Homes...hosted by The Nester.
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Thank you, dear ladies...for hosting these lovely parties for us!
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Sunday Favorites...No. 129

2011-12-17T18:00:00.001-07:00

Welcome to the 129th "Sunday Favorites" Party

"Sunday Favorites" is a Sunday meme designed to give bloggers a chance
to share a favorite post from the past!
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For more information on how to republish a past post just click HERE.

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Hello my friends!

Welcome to the 129th run of "Sunday Favorites"
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I hope that you're having a wonderful weekend! Wow...where does the time go to?
The "Christmas Countdown" clock is ticking away....tic-toc...tic-toc! Hehe!
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I have been busy...busy! I'm sure that all of you have been busy as well...with
Christmas preparations and all of the fun things that this season brings. Honey and I
have just decided that we will be driving to Texas to spend Christmas with my three
daughters and all my grandchildren. I am soooo excited! It has been a very long
time since we have all been together for Christmas.
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Sunday Favorites Cancelled for Dec. 25th and Jan. 1st.
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In light of my absence and because Christmas falls on a Sunday this year...
I will be cancelling the December 25th Sunday Favorites party. I know that
everyone will be busy with their families anyway. I am also cancelling the Sunday
Favorites party scheduled for January 1, 2012 as well. I'll just be getting home
from our travels. I will miss all of you and your wonderful reposts. We'll
continue to the regular Sunday Favorites schedule for January 8, 2012.
So I'll see you then!
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Today for Sunday Favorites...I am revisiting a post from December
27, 2010...called "And...It's a Wrap". I hope that you enjoy!
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Well my friends...I'm looking forward to seeing your Sunday Favorites
posts this week and visiting with you! You can sign up for the party at the
end of this post!

Have a super Sunday!
Chari
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Sunday Favorites My favorite post from:
December 27, 2010
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"And ...It's a Wrap"
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Hello my friends...I hope you're having a fabulous day!
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Myyyy...ohhh MY! Christmas has come...and gone! I don't know about
you, but the week that follows Christmas is always kind of a let down for me.
All the busyness of the season...slows...and it's time to get things back to normal!
I love Christmas and it would be just fine by me...if it never ended! Hehe!

I hope that each of you had a wonderful and blessed Christmas! I
certainly did! My two step-children are still here visiting. I will be spending
the week enjoying them...and I will begin the arduous process of putting away all
the Christmas decor. Yesterday I purchased several nice, heavy plastic storage
bins. I'm hoping to go through all of my Christmas and organize it a bit!
It may take me awhile...eeeks!

Anyway, I will be back next week. In the meantime, I thought I would
share just a bit more of the silver and white Christmas decor in my french
country dining room (there are a few new photos taken from a different angle in
my dining room). I just loved how it turned out...I'm still really enjoying it! I
have decided to leave it...as is...at least for the month of January! It looks
January Wintery! I hope you enjoy! I will see you soon, sweet friends!!!
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Shimmering Silver and Sparkling White
"Wintery January"
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A vintage silver soup tureen filled with mercury glass ornaments...nestled into
fresh pine boughs...serves as the table centerpiece in my dining room.

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I added white pearl berry picks into the pine greenery...along with a few mercury
glass pinecones and silver/white ornaments.

White organza ribbon...twirls and swirls...around the jeweled
mercury glass ornaments!
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I love this look! I just threaded the ribbon through the loops on the top of the ornaments.

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Hmmm...I guess I will take the "NOEL" signs out of the
centerpiece for January...otherwise the rest can stay!
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...and...

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It's a Wrap!

Saying so long to Christmas 2010!
It was fabulous!
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Well my friends...I'm so glad that you stopped by today for a visit!

It won't be long till we are ringing in a brand new year! Ohhh my...where
did 2010 go to? Hehe!
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Warmest Wishes!
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Sunday Favorites

Guidelines for Participating in Sunday Favorites

Add a "visible" link for the Sunday Favorites party to your blog post or add
the Sunday Favorites button from my sidebar.
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The link leading back to Happy To Design should be a "visible" link in
your post...not "Parties Here" or "Find the parties that I am linking to in my
sidebar" or somewhere else is...unacceptable! No one should have to
search for the parties you are joining.

Please do not add your link below, until your Sunday Favorites post is
actually published to your blog. If you are participating in Sunday Favorites,
please be sure to add your permalink and not your general blog address.
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If you have found that your link has been deleted...then it was not following
the guidelines. Please read the instructions and try again.
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Thank you so much for your participation!!! I am going to really enjoy going
through your "Sunday Favorites" posts!!!
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***Just a little note: Sunday Favorites Criteria***

When I first started the Sunday Favorites meme, my initial thought was to
offer a solution for getting a post out on the weekend without having to spend alot
of time doing so...weekends are just a busy time for most of us! Copying and pasting
a previous post is so quick and easy. Not only is this a quick and easy solution to
the busy weekends, but it's also an opportunity to dig back into our blog archives
and share a favorite "past" post once again! Many of us spend alot of time and
effort creating a post and it just seems a shame that it is viewed only once
and then forgotten about!

I would like to reiterate that Sunday Favorites is a meme about sharing or
revisiting a post from the PAST! Please do not add a freshly published post
to the Sunday Favorites party...it is NOT what this party is about.

Thank you!!!
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My Swedish Christmas Dining Room

2011-12-15T12:23:00.003-07:00

Hello my friends...I hope you're having a fabulous day!

God Jul!

(Merry Christmas)

The Christmas countdown continues...only 9 days until Christmas!

I am busier than ever...with Christmas preparations and planning for our

trip to Texas next week! I'm soooo excited to be able to spend the holidays with

my three daughters and their families...as well as my folks!

Today I thought I would show you around my Christmas dining room.

My Swedish Christmas Dining Room...

This Chirstmas, Honey and I are celebrating our family's Swedish ancestry!

With a traditional color theme of red, green, and white....mostly red and white...a

simple Swedish Christmas is set in our dining room. I would love to give you a tour.

This is a photo laden posts so I promise to keep my commentary to a minimum.

Everything is self-explanatory anyway...hehe!

I hope you enjoy the tour, my dear friends!

~.~ A Swedish Christmas ~.~

Here we are...in my dining room.

A simple, Swedish Christmas table.

A Swedish Christmas Table Centerpiece...

The Swedish Christmas table centerpiece...dressed in the traditional

colors of red and white...with a few "pops" of Christmas green for good measure!

A miniature pine tree in a white pitcher...along with a white

reindeer and a simple Swedish votive candleholder.

You will find many "hearts" in the traditional Swedish Christmas decor!
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~.~ A Swedish Buffet ~.~

A simple, Swedish Christmas buffet...dressed up in in red and white.

My Swedish Christmas tree is the "star" of this vignette...decorated with

pretty little red and white heart ornaments.

If you would like to see more of the Swedish Christmas buffet...

just click HERE.

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~.~ A Look Around the Dining Room ~.~

Pine garland filled with red berries and red apples decorate the top of my

Christmas hutch. A couple of white pitchers from my pitcher collection have also

joined in with the mix. A white birdcage filled with red and green ornaments

and a sweet winter bird is flanked by to tall red Christmas trees.

~.~ Our 2011 Christmas tree ~.~

Decorated in the traditional red, white, and green!

The gifts have not been wrapped yet...but in the meantime...a little

Snowman family is keeping the tree company!

I found this darling Snowman family at a yard sale a few years ago.

Aren't they just adorable? They are good sized snowmen and women (hehe!).

Papa Snowman stands a stately 14 inches tall. They have a place in the

back where you can put a candle or lights....so they will twinkle!

A large metal container filled with California pine cones!

I believe that these large pine cones come from the "sugar pine" tree.

My dearest friend Gloria from Happy To Be blog and her husband Len...sent

me these beautiful giant pine cones for Christmas! Ohh my...they are well over 12

inches long. Totally awesome! Thank you, Sis and Len...I love them!!!

Did you notice that Baby Snowman has little heart shaped cut-outs?

Well dear friends...I hope you enjoyed a little Swedish Christmas in my

dining room! I'm sooo glad that you stopped by for a visit!

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I am joining these fabulous parties...

Feathered Nest Friday...hosted by Courtney over at French Country Cottage.

Home Sweet Home Party...hosted by Sherry over at The Charm of Home.

Open House Party...hosted by Sherry over at No Minimalist Here.

Potpourri Friday....hosted by Honey over at "2805".

Thank you, dear ladies...for hosting these lovely parties for us!

~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~

Well my friends...thank you for coming by! Please leave me a note

and let me know that you were here. I would love to visit with you!

God Jul!

and

Warmest Wishes!

"God Jul"...a Swedish Christmas Buffet

2011-12-12T10:54:00.007-07:00

God Jul!

...or as we say here in America...

Merry Christmas!

Hello my friends...I hope you're having a fabulous day!

Ohhh boy...only 13 days until Christmas! I have been a busy little bee. Honey

and I just decided a few days ago that we are going to Texas to have Christmas with

my three daughters and my grandchildren. This decision put a new "spin" on everything.

I usually send gift cards, however now that we will be there for Christmas...I am wanting

to take gifts. There is shopping to do, then there is the gift wrapping, baking, planning

for the trip...whew...I think you get the idea! I need a couple of Christmas elves to

help me out! Hehe! We will be leaving in about a week so I don't have much time

to get everything done. Nevertheless...I am sooo very excited! It has been a very

long time since we have all been able to get together for Christmas.

I'm not sure how many more posts that I will have time to do, however I would

like to share a bit of the Christmas decor in my dining room with you today.

God Jul,

Chari

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A Swedish Christmas

2011 Christmas Dining Room

While shopping in Hobby Lobby a few weeks ago, I found the prettiest

little heart shaped ornaments. I immediately thought of a Swedish Christmas.

The Swedish often incorporate hearts into their Christmas decor.

Ooooh...decorating for a Swedish Christmas in my dining room would be so

much fun! Although my husband and I are both of Swedish heritage, this was an

entirely new experience for me. I sure did enjoy doing something different. I

hope that you enjoy it too!

So without further ado...

"God Jul"...a Swedish Christmas Buffet

This is the buffet in my dining room...all dressed up and ready

for a Swedish Christmas!

The Christmas buffet is done in a Swedish color theme of red and white.

Lots and lots of red and white...with just a few "pops" of green!

A Swedish Christmas Tree

The "star" attraction of this Christmas vignette...a Swedish Christmas tree!
(at least my version of a Swedish Christmas tree)

Small tree branches, spray painted white, are anchored in a white ironstone

pitcher. The heart shaped ornaments hang on the tree...ever so sweetly.

There are three different types of Christmas heart ornaments...

4 - solid red hearts with glitter

4 - tone on tone white hearts with a Christmas tree design

2 - white hearts with red birds and decorative scrolls.

Different patterns of red and white ribbon are tied onto the hearts so that

they can be hung on the tree.

My Honey took this photo (above). Isn't it the most perfect display of Christmas colors?

The traditional red, green, and white Christmas!

Swedish Christmas Tree Vignette

Front and center of the buffet...

A large white ironstone platter/tray hosts the Swedish Christmas

tree vignette. A small ironstone cream pitcher joins the larger pitcher

that houses the tree. A frosted glass pinecone, large red jingle bells, a

white wooden reindeer along with a set of "Old World Santa"

nesting dolls.

I have had the "Old World Santa" nesting dolls for a number

of years now. I suppose that they would be considered vintage.

They are one of my favorite Christmas decorations!

A view from the left side of the buffet.

The Left Hand Side of the Vignette...

A fresh Norfolk Pine in a white ironstone soup tureen decorates

the left hand side of this Swedish Christmas vignette.

Red and green jingle bells and an old vintage bell

ornament join in with the mix.

The Right Side of the Vignette...

Two Swedish folk art cups and a reticulated pedestal cake plate

decorate the right hand side of this vignette.

I found the Swedish folk art cups at TJ Maxx a few weeks ago. The

red coasters came with the cups. As soon as I seen the pretty folk art pattern

on the cups...and that they were red and white...I knew they would be perfect

for my Swedish Christmas vignette.

Pretty white, ornate handled spoons fill one of the cups. Ready at a moments

notice...for a warm cup of tea or a cup of hot cocoa. Maybe you would like a

stick of cinnamon in your warm drink?

And...there you have it!

A Swedish Christmas buffet!

God Jul!

Merry Christmas, dear friends!

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I am joining these fabulous parties...

Christmas Home Tours...hosted by Melissa over at The Inspired Room.

Metamorphosis Monday...hosted by Susan over at Between Naps on the Porch.

Table Top Tuesday...hosted by Marty over at A Stroll Thru Life.
What's It Wednesday...hosted by Ivy and Elephants.

Wow Us Wednesday...hosted by Kim over at Savvy Southern Style.

Thank you, dear ladies...for hosting these lovely parties for us!

~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~

Well dear friends...I'm so glad that you stopped by for a visit today. Please
leave me a note...I would love to visit with you!

Warmest Christmas Wishes!

Sunday Favorites...No. 128

2011-12-10T18:00:00.004-07:00

Welcome to the 128th "Sunday Favorites" Party

"Sunday Favorites" is a Sunday meme designed to give bloggers a chance
to share a favorite post from the past!
*
For more information on how to republish a past post just click HERE.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
*

Hello my friends!

Welcome to the 128th run of "Sunday Favorites"
*
I hope that you're having a wonderful weekend! Wow...where does the time go to?
The "Christmas Countdown" clock is ticking away....tic-toc...tic-toc! Hehe!
*
I have been busy...busy! I'm sure that all of you have been busy as well...with
Christmas preparations and all of the fun things that this season brings. Honey and I
have just decided that we will be driving to Texas to spend Christmas with my three
daughters and all my grandchildren. I am soooo excited! It has been a very long
time since we have all been together for Christmas.
*
Sunday Favorites Cancelled for Dec. 25th and Jan. 1st.
*
In light of my absence and because Christmas falls on a Sunday this year...
I will be cancelling the December 25th Sunday Favorites party. I know that
everyone will be busy with their families anyway. I am also cancelling the Sunday
Favorites party scheduled for January 1, 2012 as well. I'll just be getting home
from our travels. I will miss all of you and your wonderful reposts. We'll
continue to the regular Sunday Favorites schedule for January 8, 2012.
So I'll see you then!
*
Today for Sunday Favorites...I am revisiting a Christmas post from December
2010...called "The Magic of Christmas". I hope that you enjoy!
*
Well my friends...I'm looking forward to seeing your Sunday Favorites
posts this week and visiting with you! You can sign up for the party at the
end of this post!

Have a super Sunday!
Chari
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Sunday Favorites My favorite post from:
December 23, 2010
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~The Magic of Christmas~
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Hello my friends...I hope you're having a joyous Christmas holiday!
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Earlier in the week when I posted about my Christmas dining room...I thought that
it would be my last post until after Christmas. And then...I remembered that I had taken
photos of my dining room buffet at night when it was all lit up...so I thought I would
share a few of those photos with you today. I hope you enjoy!!!
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In the dark of night...when the Christmas lights are all-a-sparkle...
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I am reminded of the true magic of Christmas!
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My Christmas Buffet
December 2010
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Before I show you my Christmas buffet all lit up...I thought I would
share just a few photos of what it looks like during the daylight hours.

I won't get into all the specifics here but if you would like to see more of
my Christmas buffet and the decorating "how to's" you can just click HERE.
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~The Magic of Christmas~
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At Christmas time, I go all out with the decorating!

It's something that I really enjoy...and after all...
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it's a time of great celebration!

A time to celebrate the true magic of Christmas!
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It seems like magic...
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That from the beginning of time...God had a plan!
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A plan...so that we...could spend eternity with HIM!
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It seems like magic...
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That a young woman named Mary...who was a virgin...conceived a SON!
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It seems like magic...
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That Mary's son...JESUS...a baby boy born in a lowly manger...
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would be called The King of Kings,
The Lord of Lords,
The Savior of all mankind!
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Yes, it seems like magic...that God had a plan from the beginning of time...
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for His only begotten son...Jesus...born of the Virgin Mary.
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That Jesus would give His very life for us...that we might be reconciled to God...
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so that we could spend eternity with HIM!
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It seems like magic...
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That such a gift...
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of unmeasurable love...
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unfathomable peace...
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and overwhelming joy...
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a gift of eternal salvation...
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was all wrapped up in that little bundle born on Christmas day!
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Yes...it seems like magic...

but it is sooo very real!

God had a plan...through his prophets of old...it was told...

"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be
upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty
God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace..." Isaiah 9:6
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Yes...it seems like magic...that all of our hopes were
realized that Christmas night...
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"And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he
shall save his people from their sins." Matthew 1:21
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It seems like magic...but the gift of Christmas given to you...
and to me...is very, very real!!!
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I give thanks to my Heavenly Father...for Jesus...his Christmas gift to me!
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Well my dear, sweet friends...I'm so glad that you came by today! I am also
thankful for my gift of YOU and your sweet friendship! May each of you have a
wonderful and blessed Christmas!!! I pray that you experience the greatest
gift of all this Christmas...God's gift of Jesus!!!
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Warmest Christmas Blessings!

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Sunday Favorites

Guidelines for Participating in Sunday Favorites

Thank you so much for your participation!!! I am going to really enjoy going
through your "Sunday Favorites" posts!!!
*
*

***Just a little note: Sunday Favorites Criteria***

Thank you!!!
*
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~Silver Symphony~...Christmas Vignettes

2011-12-08T15:51:00.006-07:00

Hello my friends...I hope you're having a fabulous day!

Wow...with just a little over two weeks to go...the Christmas countdown clock is tic-tocking

away! I love, love, LOVE Christmas! It's my favorite holiday of the year!

Today I thought I would continue the tour of my 2011 Christmas decor in the living room.

~Silver Symphony~

My living room's Christmas decor has taken on a theme..."Silver Symphony"...with lots of

shimmering silver and sparkling white.

Last year while I was shopping at one of my favorite antique shops, I found a trio

of serenading angels. As soon as I seen them, I knew that I wanted to use them in my

Christmas decor this year. This sweet trio of angels are made of white porcelain and they

stand a stately 12 inches tall. Each angel has a different musical instrument. Thus...the

Christmas decor theme in my living room began to evolve into a "Silver Symphony"!

Let me take you on the tour...I hope you enjoy!

~Silver Symphony~

Christmas 2011

Here we are...in the living room.

~Silver Symphony~

2011 Christmas mantel

If you would like to see more of my Christmas mantel...just click HERE.

The mantel's star attraction...

two serenading angels and a tall decorative mercury glass finial.

As you can see...two of the trio of angels has landed upon my faux fireplace mantel.

~Silver Symphony~

Christmas Vignette

And...here is the third serenading angel.

This table is situated between the fireplace mantel and sofa. I created this little

Christmas vignette for the table with a few of my favorite things...
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a glittery silver star under a tall cloche, a small silver bird under a teeny-tiny
cloche, small silver reindeer, white icicle ornaments, a white frosted pinecone,
and my favorite heart shaped mercury glass ornament...and...of course the
sweet serenading angel!

A close-up of my heart shaped mercury glass ornament. I added a white

organza ribbon to the top of the heart. The ribbon is wired so it can be shaped

into a swirling...twirling...pretty!

"Silent night...Holy night!

All is calm...all is bright!"

A Second Christmas Vignette...

Another Christmas vignette decorates the table that sits in front of the

tall arched window in our living room!

My French lady bust overlooks three tiered pedestal plates filled

with sparkling white and shimmering silver ornaments!

Silver candlesticks with white tapers and tall mercury glass

candleholders join into the mix!

Jeweled mercury glass ornaments with white twirly-whirly ribbon

sit atop the mercury glass candleholders.

"Im dreaming of a white Christmas.

Just like the ones I used to know.

May your days be merry and bright,

and may all your Christmases be white."

"O beautiful star of Bethlehem
Shining far through shadows dim
Giving the light for those who long have gone
Guiding the wise men on their way
Unto the place where Jesus lay
O beautiful star of Bethlehem
Shine on!"

"Silver bells....silver bells

It's Christmas time in the city.

Ring-a-ling...hear them ring

Soon it will be Christmas day!"

~Silver Symphony~

"Joy to the World, the Lord is come!

Let earth receive her King;

Let every heart prepare Him room,

And Heaven and nature sing,

And Heaven, and Heaven, and nature sing!"

Merry Christmas, dear friends!!!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I am joining these fabulous parties...

Feathered Nest Friday...hosted by Courtney over at French Country Cottage.

Home Sweet Home Party...hosted by Sherry over at The Charm of Home.

Potpourri Friday...hosted by Honey over at "2805".
Christmas Home Tour...hosted by Melissa over at The Inspired Room.

Thank you, dear ladies...for hosting these lovely parties for us!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Well dear friends...I'm so glad that you stopped by today! Please leave me a note

and let me know that you were here. I would love to visit with you!

Warmest Christmas Wishes!

~Silver Symphony~...Christmas Mantel

2011-12-05T08:49:00.003-07:00

Hello my friends...I hope you're having a fabulous day!

I am sooo excited to finally be showing a bit of my 2011 Christmas decor! I have
had most of it finished for a couple of weeks now...but I've been waiting for good "light"
days to photograph.

Today I am going to share my 2011 Christmas mantel...but before I take
you on the tour...I would like to say just a few words about Christmas and what it

means to me!

Christmas...My Favorite Holiday of the Year!

I'm sure that each of you have very special thoughts of what Christmas means

to you. To many, it's about family and friends...gathering together to celebrate the

holidays. To some, it may be all about the gifts.
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To me...Christmas is the time that I set apart to celebrate the birth of my Savior
Jesus Christ! Of course, my precious family and dear friends make Christmas a very
special time for me as well. I don't know what I would do without them...and
I don't know what I would do without the Lord.
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Our country is going through some rough times economically. I think
about the many who may not have a job, a warm home, or even enough food

to put on their tables. My heart goes out to them and I pray earnestly for their well

being and that they may have what they need. My family and I are so very blessed

and I am very thankful! Thank you, Jesus!

Jesus is truly the reason for this season!

Warmest Christmas wishes and blessings to you and your families. May you

know the God of peace, joy, and love and may He give you "ALL" that you have

need of this Christmas! Merry Christmas!

~Silver Symphony~

2011 Christmas Mantel

Here we are...looking into my living room.

Just catching a glimpse of the fireplace mantel through the decorated

boughs of our Christmas tree.

~Silver Symphony~

2011 Christmas Mantel

I decided on a white and silver color theme for my 2011 Christmas

(faux) fireplace mantel.

White and silver just "sing" of Christmas...don't you think?

When I look at this white and silver colored Christmas mantel...my

thoughts are lifted toward heaven and to the multitude of angelic hosts

that are singing the praises of our Heavenly Father!

In fact, two of those angels have graced this ~Silver Symphony~

mantel with their sweet presence!

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You can see the reflection of the large arched window in my living room
in the glass of the framed art above my mantel. I think that looks pretty!
*

Lots and lots of sparkling white and shimmering silver!

Each piece on the mantel is either white or silver...with the

exception of the pine garland.

Here are the two sweet, serenading angels now!

The angel on the left is playing a flute. The angel on the right

is playing a mandolin.

Songs of Christmas joy are lifted into the

air....my angelic symphony!

I found a trio of these serenading angels at my favorites antique

shop this last year. The third angel is nearby...on the table in front of

the fireplace. I believe that they are made of porcelain. They stand

a stately 12 inches in height so they are nice sized.

A tall, decorative, mercury glass finial sits between the two angels.

The mercury glass finial is lifted atop a small glass pedestal plate.

Silver bells circle the base of the finial.

The shape of the tall mercury glass finial reminds me of a Christmas tree!

~Silver Symphony~

Silver...Silver...and more Silver!

Mercury glass finials and mercury glass ornaments lend a special

silvery sparkle to this Chrismas mantel. I love the look of mercury

glass...especially at Christmas!

Six ornate silver candleholders bring a little silver shimmer to the

mantel as well. A silver snowflake candleholder holding a chunky white

pillar candle joins in with the ~silver symphony~!

New Treasure Find...Silver Lanterns

A found a pair of tall silver lanterns at Hobby Lobby a few weeks

ago. They were 50% off so I purchased them for a great price. They

stand 24 inches tall.

Decorative mercury glass finials shine and sparkle from behind the

glass of the lanterns! Sooo pretty!

I wrapped a silver beaded garland with tassels around the top of

the lantern. Ohhh my...only one lantern has the silvery beaded garland

right now. I have another one...somewhere...eeks! Hopefully

I'll find it before Christmas!

View of the mantel from the opposite direction.

As you can see...I also added mercury glass ornaments to the pine garland as well.

~Silver Symphony~

Fireplace Hearth

The silver and white color theme continues down onto the hearth as well.

A stack of decorative Christmas boxes sit front and center. A silver

soup tureen is serving double duty for a little decorative presence on the

hearth. A chunky white pillar candle fills the tureen with a candle

garland that looks like "ice crystals".

A pair of silver reindeer and a large white artichoke finial join in

to complete the ~Silver Symphony~ mantelscape.

A close-up of the silver tureen.

It is one of my favorite pieces of collected silver. It's very ornate!
A sparkly icecycle and a few more mercury glass ornaments join in with
the ~silver symphony~!

Ahhhh.....

~Silver Symphony~

sings of the glory of Christmas!

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*
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Just a little peek into my Christmas living room.

There is more to come...so I hope you'll come back by again!

Voila...and there you have it...

My 2011 ~Silver Symphony" Christmas Mantel!

~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~

I'm joining these fabulous parties...

Metamorphosis Monday...hosted by Susan over at Between Naps on the Porch.

Table Top Tuesday...hosted by Marty over at A Stroll Thru Life.

2011 Holiday Mantel Party...hosted by Pamela over at From My Front Porch To Yours.

Christmas Mantel Party...hosted by Beth over at Home Stories A to Z.
2011 Christmas Party...hosted by Jessa over at Holiday Haven.

and I'm joining the Christmas Blogger Block Party
*

Holiday Mantels...hosted by Kristen over at My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia.
Christmas Home Tour...hosted by Melissa over at The Inspired Room.
*

*Thank you, dear ladies...for hosting these lovely parties for us!

~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~

Well my friends...I'm so happy that you stopped by today! I hope that
you enjoyed my 2011 Christmas mantel. Stay tuned...for more Christmas at
my place. Please leave me a note and let me know that you were here...I
would love to visit with you!

Warmest Christmas Wishes,

Sunday Favorites...No. 127

2011-12-03T18:00:00.002-07:00

Welcome to the 127th "Sunday Favorites" Party

"Sunday Favorites" is a Sunday meme designed to give bloggers a chance to share a favorite post from the past!!!
For more information on how to republish a past post just click HERE.

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Hello my friends!

Welcome to the 127th run of "Sunday Favorites"
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I hope that you're having a wonderful weekend! Wow...where does the time go to? Can you believe that we are already into the first week of December? The "Christmas Countdown" clock is ticking away....tic-toc...tic-toc! Hehe!
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I have been busy, busy at my place...decorating the halls with boughs of holly and Christmas joy! I think I am finished with my Christmas decor...now I just need to get photos so I can share my 2011 Christmas with you. Stay tuned, my friends!
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Today for Sunday Favorites...I am revisiting a Christmas post from December 2009...a Christmas tablescape called "Christmas in the Woodlands". I hope that you enjoy!
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Well my friends...I'm looking forward to seeing your Sunday Favorites posts this week and visiting with you! You can sign up for the party at the end of this post!

Have a super Sunday!
Chari
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Sunday Favorites My favorite post from:
December 21, 2009
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"Christmas in the Woodlands"
Christmas Tablescape
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Hello my friends...Merry Christmas!!!
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I'm so happy that you stopped by today for a visit! I just wanted to wish each and every one of you...my dear sweet friends...a Merry Christmas!!! I pray that you and your families are filled to overflowing with the peace, joy, and love of God this Christmas season!!!
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Ohhh my...I had so many big plans for Christmas this year! I have been busy, busy...but I think I have run out of time to do some of the things that I was hoping to accomplish. For instance, I had three different Christmas tablescapes planned, however I have only been able to get one of them done! Where does all the time go to? Anyway, I would like to share with you, the one Christmas tablescape that I was able to finish! Enjoy!!!
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A Christmas in the Woodlands
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We are having a quiet, informal Christmas this year. It will just be my husband and I and the two children. I have planned an informal dinner for the four of us on Christmas day in our dining room...something warm and inviting...fun and full of Christmas magic!
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A "Woodlands Christmas" Place Setting
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I found these beautiful Christmas plates on ebay several months ago for just $12.49 for the set of four! It was love at first sight!!! These beautiful salad/dessert plates are called "Winter Greetings" and are manufactured by Lenox. Ohhh...just look at those sweet little chickadees! I decided to pair the Christmas salad/dessert plate with a solid red dinner plate...simple...informal!
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The amber colored goblets come from Walmart. I like how they pick up the amber tones on the Christmas plate!
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The Table Linens
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I love my new Christmas placemats! The black, red, and green colors are perfect with this Woodlands Christmas tablescape! I found them at the Dollar Tree...for just $1 each! I had hoped to find red and green plaid dinner napkins but I just ran out of time...so I used the solid red napkins that I already had!
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A "Christmas in the Woodlands" Centerpiece
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Ohhh...I had so much fun putting this table centerpiece together!
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A Woodlands Birdhouse
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I thought this pretty black birdhouse would be a great focal point for my "Woodlands Christmas" centerpiece! You know...those sweet little Christmas chickadees needed a home!
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I used pine greenery and sprigs of red berries at the base of the birdhouse and scattered a few pinecones into the mix. I then added two decorative iron candleholders with pillar candles to each side of the birdhouse. The pillar candles were a little plain so I added a bit of twine, greenery, red berries, and a small pinecone for decoration.
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and we can't have a Christmas Woodlands without a bird's nest...
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I added a little bird's nest at the base of the birdhouse...it just seemed right! Hehe! A little cast iron bird is resting upon the nest.
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The Christmas Birds of the Woodlands
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Besides the little chickadees and the white bird in the nest...a couple of other birds came to visit! Ohhh my...they sure are plump little creatures! Hehe! I found two pretty wooden black birds at Hobby Lobby this past summer. I just loved the ornate cut-work design in the sides of them. If you look real close, you will see that the cut-work pattern is holly leaves and berries! Sooo pretty!!! These precious little guys were all black but I decided to touch up the holly leaves and berries with a little green and red acrylic paint so that the pattern would show up a little better.
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Christmas Trees...A Little Woodlands Magic
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I found these two beautiful red and gold glittery Christmas trees at the Goodwill a few weeks ago...they were only .50 each!
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They bring a certain Christmas magic to our Woodlands...don't you think?
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A Christmas in the Woodlands...Buffet
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I thought I would include a couple of photos of the Christmas decor on my dining room buffet.
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Ohhh look...and here is the Woodlands Santa!
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I decided to use my Woodlands Santa in the dining room this year. And believe it or not...this is where the entire "Woodlands Christmas" theme began! We just had to have a Christmas Woodlands for Santa!!!
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I started collecting Santas a few years ago...I don't have many but this one is my favorite!!! I just love his burgandy cordoroy coat with the all that fur trim! He has a tall staff in his hand that has a bit of pine greenery mingled into the top of the staff...and yes...another sweet Christmas bird...a Christmas cardinal! Santa is carrying a burgandy velvet bag over his shoulder...filled full of sugared fruit! Another bag sits at his feet with more sugared fruit! I think Santa has been feeding all of my Christmas Woodlands birds!
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And there you have it...a Christmas in the Woodlands tablescape!
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Well my sweet friends, thank you so much for coming by today and taking a peek at my "Christmas in the Woodlands" tablescape! I'd love for you to leave me a comment and let me know that you were here...I'd love to visit with you!!!
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Have a wonderfully blessed Christmas, my friends!!! May the Lord bless you with good health and sweet fellowship with family and friends!!!
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Love ya'll,
Chari
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Sunday Favorites

Guidelines for Participating in Sunday Favorites

Add a "visible" link for the Sunday Favorites party to your blog post or add the Sunday Favorites button from my sidebar. The link leading back to Happy To Design should be a "visible" link in your post...not "Parties Here" or "Find the parties that I am linking to in my sidebar" or somewhere else is...unacceptable! No one should have to search for the parties you are joining.

Please do not add your link below, until your Sunday Favorites post is actually published to your blog. If you are participating in Sunday Favorites, please be sure to add your permalink and not your general blog address.
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If you have found that your link has been deleted...then it was not following the guidelines. Please read the instructions and try again.
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Thank you so much for your participation!!! I am going to really enjoy going through your "Sunday Favorites" posts!!!
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***Just a little note: Sunday Favorites Criteria***

When I first started the Sunday Favorites meme, my initial thought was to offer a solution for getting a post out on the weekend without having to spend alot of time doing so...weekends are just a busy time for most of us! Copying and pasting a previous post is so quick and easy. Not only is this a quick and easy solution to the busy weekends, but it's also an opportunity to dig back into our blog archives and share a favorite "past" post once again! Many of us spend alot of time and effort creating a post and it just seems a shame that it is viewed only once and then forgotten about!

I would like to reiterate that Sunday Favorites is a meme about sharing or revisiting a post from the PAST! Please do not add a freshly published post to the Sunday Favorites party...it is NOT what this party is about.

Thank you!!!
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Christmas Élégance...Three Christmas Place Settings

2011-11-30T10:23:00.005-07:00

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Hello my friends...I hope that you're having a fabulous day!
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Ohhh my...the Christmas countdown begins! We only have 24 days until Christmas! I have
been busy, busy at my place preparing for Christmas. My Christmas decor is nearly completed.
I just need to get a few photos now. Hopefully I can share my 2011 Christmas decor with
you very soon.
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In the meantime, I thought I would revisit one of my favorite Christmas posts from
December 16, 2009. I hope that you enjoy!
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"Christmas Élégance...Three Christmas Place Settings"
December 2009
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I have had so much fun decorating for Christmas! I finally finished "decking out" my
French Country dining room and posted about it just a few days ago. Today is a bit of a
continuation from that post...I decided to have fun with the Christmas centerpiece that I
created for the dining room table by trying a few Christmas place settings...each one a
bit different!
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Silver Élégance & a Christmas Table Centerpiece
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* To me...Christmas is about many things! First and foremost...it's the time when
I celebrate the birth of my Savior Jesus Christ and it's also a time when I celebrate
my family and friends!

and...

When it comes to decorating... Christmas is the time when I can be a bit
extravagant! So to celebrate this wonderful season, I brought out the silver and
created a Christmas table centerpiece!
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*
I have been collecting silver candlesticks for some time now....but I have a new treasure find!
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~Silver Soup Tureen~
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A couple of weeks ago, I found this beautiful silver soup tureen at the Goodwill for
just $19! It's in great condition and even has the soup ladle! Ohhh boy...you should have
seen me doin' my "happy dance"! Hehe! It is the perfect addition to my Christmas
centerpiece!!!

I just love the look of silver and red together...ohhh sooo elegant!

Now...the fun begins...

Christmas Élégance...
Three Christmas Place Settings

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Christmas Place Setting #1...Red Transferware!
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I just love red transferware dishes...and they look so Christmasy...don't you think?
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This place setting consists of a red transferware dinner plate...a larger solid
red dinner plate, and a red transferware charger plate. All sitting atop a silver
tray! I have added a red satin dinner napkin and a few pieces of
flatware (more silver...yay!)
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Both of the red transferware pieces are different patterns, but one
of the great things about red transferware is that you can mix and match
them for a great look!
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I also had some fun putting together this little pretty!!!

I used one of my silver pedestal plates and the glass cloche that my friend
Sally (from Salmagundi Blog) gave me when we met! I just couldn't believe my
good fortune...this glass cloche fits perfectly upon the pedestal plate! Thank you
again, Sally! I then added a silver beaded garland with tassels and a silver
filigree ornament to the mix! Just look at that silver sparkle...I love it!!!
Ohhh...so pretty!!!
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Place Setting #2...Solid Red Dinnerware
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For this second place setting, I used a dinner plate and a salad/dessert plate
from my solid red dinnerware set. I also kept the red transferware plate for a
little added interest! Ohhh yes...and I added a new silver plate...a gift from
Leann over at The Old Parsonage! I just got it in the mail yesterday.
Thank you, Leann....I love it!
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A close-up of the red transferware plate.
Ohhh...so pretty and frenchy looking!!!
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Just a pretty photo of place setting #2 and my red dining room.
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Place Setting #3...Classic Christmas Red and Green
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Is these anything more classic than red & green for Christmas?
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I decided to change out the red transferware for my olive green
transferware! As you can see, the solid red dinner plate is large enough
to be used as a charger plate...I love that about this dinnerware! I found
this fabulous set of olive green transferware dishes on ebay last Spring.
There is a 5 piece place setting for six and I got it all for a mere...are you
ready? For just $10! Yeehawww!!!
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This beautiful olive green transferware/ironstone is manufactured by
Kensington Staffordshire of England.
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I think this might just be my favorite of the three different place settings!
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Which one do you like best?
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A close-up of the olive green transferware plate. I just love
how it looks with the red!!!
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Just having fun! The red poinsettia looks beautiful with this
place setting...don't you think?
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Just a couple of "artsy" photos. I used a "frosted glass" effect
to frame these photos.
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Ahhhh...silver elegance!!!
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And...there you have it! Three different Christmas place settings!
I hope you enjoyed them...I sure had fun playing!!!
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I am joining these fabulous parties...
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Feathered Nest Friday...hosted by Courtney over at French Country Cottage.
Home Sweet Home party...hosted by Sherry over at The Charm of Home.
Open House Party...hosted by Sherry over at No Minimalist Here.
Potpourri Friday...hosted by Honey over at "2805".
Tablescape Thursday...hosted by Susan over at Between Naps on the Porch.
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Thank you, dear ladies...for hosting these lovely parties for us!
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Well dear friends...I'm so glad that you stopped by today!
I hope that you enjoyed my "Christmas from the Past" post.
Next week I will share with you my 2011 Christmas decor...so stay tuned!

Please leave me a note and let me know that you were here.
I would love to visit with you!
*
Warmest Christmas Wishes!
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"Christmas in the Woodlands" Fireplace Mantel Revisit

2011-11-28T11:30:00.001-07:00

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Hello my friends...I hope you're having a fabulous day!
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hI hope that you had a wonderful and blessed Thanksgiving. My step-children were
here from Iowa to help us celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday. We had a great time
visiting with the kids! We had our traditional Thanksgiving meal on Saturday. I'm
still trying to clean up the holiday "aftermath".
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Now that Thanksgiving is over, it's time to start thinking about Christmas. Whew...
I think I'm tired already! Hehe! Today I am revisiting my 2010 Christmas fireplace
mantel called "Christmas in the Woodlands". I hope that you enjoy!
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~Christmas in the Woodlands~
2010 Christmas Mantel
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Here we are in my living room...all dressed
up and ready for Christmas.
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Last year honey and I built this faux fireplace...just in time for
Christmas 2009. I have had sooo much fun having a mantel to decorate!
The mantel itself came from JC Penneys...I got a great deal on it. Honey built
the tile surround and I did a faux paint treatment on it...he also built the hearth
that the mantel is sitting on. I really wanted the fireplace to look as real as
possible...I am very pleased with the results! As you can see, my living room
is done in an olive green, burgandy, and gold color scheme...which
makes Christmas decorating a cinch! Hehe!
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Last year I used creamy white and gold for an elegant Christmas
mantel. It turned out really pretty but I wanted to do something a
little different this Christmas. Sooo...I decided on a Christmas
Woodlands theme.
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Dark woodland greens, burgandy, and a touch of gold for a little
Christmas magic...make up the color scheme for this Christmas in
the Woodlands mantel!
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A view from the opposite direction.
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~ Christmas Woodlands Garland~
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My Woodlands Santa was the inspiration for this year's Christmas mantel. A little
more about Santa later...but I wanted to show you what I did with the mantel garland.
I found this beautiful woodsy looking garland last year at GW. In fact, I found two of
these beautiful garlands in a bag for just $2.00...yeeehawww! I love the long needle
pine greenery...and the winter berries and pinecones! I used the second garland to drape
over the art above the mantel. A large gold mesh ribbon is woven in and out of
the garland for a bit of whimsy...with large bows on either end.
*

**
~Woodlands Santa~
*
I started collecting these "Old World" Santas several years ago...this one is my favorite!
I love Santa's fur trimmed, burgandy colored cordoroy robe and hat. He has a woodlands
staff in one hand...just look at that sweet little red cardinal that is resting in the tree boughs!
Santa is carrying a large burgandy velvet bag full of sugared fruit, nuts, and pine
over his shoulder...another bag full of Christmas goodies is sitting at his feet.
*

**
~French Wire Cloche~
*
I decided to use my frenchy wire cloche on this Christmas mantel. I love the
old, distressed gray finish...it looks like of "woodsy" to me! Hehe! This wire cloche
stands a stately 30 ins. in height and it looks kind of like a Christmas tree...it has the
same shape of a tree. I filled it...very carefully...with various colors of gold
ornaments. Ahhh...Christmas magic!!!
*

*
*
*

*
I love how detailed Santa's face is...he has
such kind eyes!
*

**
And of course...Santa has to have his reindeer!
*

*
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*

*
I found this pair of reindeer last year at Hobby Lobby. I love the
burnished gold finish and that beautiful cut-work design on the sides
of the deer...ohhh sooo pretty!
*

*
A Christmas Woodlands Hearth
*

*
Last year I found these beautiful Christmas hat boxes at Hobby Lobby
during their 90% off sale...they were nearly "free"! I love Hobby Lobby! I
took the lid off of the top box and filled it with pinecones and more
gold ornaments.
*
New Christmas Urns with Lit Branches...
*
Okay...more great Hobby Lobby treasure finds. I found two of these masonary
urns (50% off) and decided to make Christmas arrangements for either side of
the hearth. The tall branches with lights were found at TJ Maxx for just $12 ea.
With a bit of pine greenery, red and green winter berries, and pinecones...and the
tall lit branches...I created an arrangement that goes along nicely with the
Christmas Woodlands theme.
*
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Christmas Magic...Sparkly Lights
*

*
And Voila...here are the Christmas urns...all lit up!
*

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More Christmas magic...
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*
A "Christmas in the Woodlands" fireplace mantel...
Christmas 2010!
*
*
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
*
I am joining these fabulous parties...
*

Metamorphosis Monday...hosted by Susan over at Between Naps on the Porch.
*Table Top Tuesday...hosted by Marty over at A Stroll Thru Life.
*
Thank you Susan and Marty...for hosting these fun filled parties for us!
*
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
*

Well my friends, thank you so much for coming by and taking a peek at my
2010 Christmas fireplace mantel! I hope to have my 2011 Christmas mantel photos
to share with you very soon! Sooo...stay tuned!

Please leave me a note and let me know that you were here. I would love
to visit with you!
*
Warmest Christmas Wishes...

My 2011 Autumn Home Tour

2011-11-22T13:17:00.007-07:00

Hello my friends...I hope you're having a fabulous day!

This is a very busy week for many of us...with Thanksgiving day just a couple
of days away. I would like to wish you and your family a very blessed and happy
Thanksgiving. We have so much to be thankful for this year!

This will be my last post of the week. I thought I would take you on a photo tour
of my 2011 autumn home. It's a photo laden post so I promise to keep the chat
to a minimum. I hope that you enjoy!

My 2011 Autumn Home Tour

Autumn 2011 in my living room.

~Harvest Mantel~

If you would like to see more of my ~Harvest Mantel~...just click HERE.

A corner of my 2011 autumn kitchen.

Wire cloches dressed for autumn are the stars in this kitchen vignette.

If you would like to see more of this autumn vignette...just click HERE.

Autumn 2011 in my French country dining room.

An autumn vignette atop the dining room hutch.

*
*

"To Autumn"

an Autumn Buffet

The buffet in my french country dining room gets a

"rustic luxe" style autumn makeover!

*
*

If you would like to see more of "To Autumn" a rustic luxe

buffet...just click HERE.

"Pumpkins in Still Life"

Autumn 2011 presented a few photo opportunities for a

couple of "Still Life" scenes.

If you would like to see more of "Pumpkins in Still Life"...

just click HERE.

"Autumn Pears in Still Life"

If you would like to see more of "Autumn Pears in Still Life"

...just click HERE.*

2011 Autumn Tablescapes...

~Goldenrod Autumn~

My first autumn tablescape of the season.

Goldenrod...so named for the new goldenrod colored dinner

plates that I used in this tablescape.

If you would like to see more of this ~Goldenrod Autumn"

tablescape...just click HERE.

"Pheasants by the Fireside"

A warm and cozy table for two...set in the living room beside the fireplace.

*
*

If you would would like to see more of "Pheasants by the Fireside"

...just click HERE.

~~Thanksgiving 2011~~

~Bountiful Blessings"

Our 2011 Thanksgiving table.

I thought I would close with my ~Bountiful Blessings~...Thanksgiving table.

My step-children will be here to help us celebrate Thanksgiving this year. A

bountiful table set for four...for the traditional turkey with all the fixin's...for

our Thanksgiving dinner!

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*

If you would like to see more of...

~Bountiful Blessings~

our 2011 Thanksgiving table...just click HERE.

Happy Thanksgiving to all my dear friends!

May you and your families be blessed

with a warm and happy Thanksgiving!

I have many blessings that I can count this Thanksgiving...and you

are one of those precious blessings!

Warmest Thanksgiving Wishes!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
*
I am joining these fabulous parties...
*
Feathered Nest Friday...hosted by Courtney over at French Country Cottage.
Home Sweet Home party...hosted by Sherry over at The Charm of Home.
Open House Thursday...hosted by Sherry over at No Minimalist Here.
Potpourri Friday...hosted by Honey over at "2805".
Tablescape Thursday...hosted by Susan over at Between Naps on the Porch.
Table Top Tuesday...hosted by Marty over at A Stroll Thru Life.
*
Thank you dear ladies, for hosting these lovely parties for us!
*
*

PS...Don't forget...the Sunday Favorites party for Nov. 27th has been cancelled due to our family from out of town visiting for Thanksgiving. We'll be back to our regular Sunday Favorites party schedule next week...Dec. 3rd! Thanks for being patient with me, dear friends!

Sunday Favorites...No. 126

2011-11-19T18:00:00.006-07:00

Welcome to the 126th "Sunday Favorites" Party

"Sunday Favorites" is a Sunday meme designed to give bloggers a chance to share a favorite post from the past!!!
For more information on how to republish a past post just click HERE.

~~~~~~
*

Hello my friends!

Welcome to the 126th run of "Sunday Favorites"
*
I hope that you're having a wonderful weekend! Wow...can you believe it? Thanksgiving is nearly here! I have been busy...busy...planning for our Thanksgiving. My two step-children will be here to help us celebrate this very special occasion. They are coming all the way from Iowa. We will be celebrating our Thanksgiving on Nov. 26th and 27th...so I'm cancelling the Sunday Favorites party that weekend to spend time with family! So mark your calendars...we will be back to the regular Sunday Favorites party on Dec. 3rd. Thank you for being patient with me.
*
I'm looking forward to our visit and I'm looking forward to preparing that traditional turkey dinner. Yum!
*
Happy Thanksgiving
*
This will be the last Sunday Favorites party before Thanksgiving. I would like to wish all of you, dear friends...a very blessed and happy Thanksgiving! I am truly blessed!!! I thank God for this great country in which I live, for giving me a warm roof over my head, and food on my table! I thank Him for my precious family and I thank Him for YOU! Have a wonderful Thanksgiving, my friends!!!
*

Today I am revisiting a post from Thanksgiving 2010 for the Sunday Favorites party. I hope that you enjoy!
*
Well my friends...I'm looking forward to seeing your Sunday Favorites posts this week and visiting with you! You can sign up for the party at the end of this post!

Have a super Sunday!
Chari
*
~~~~~~~~~~~~
*

Sunday Favorites My favorite post from:
November 24, 2010
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"Autumn Pears...a Thanksgiving Table"
Thanksgiving 2010
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Hello my friends...Happy Thanksgiving!
*
Today is going to be a very busy day for many of us. Preparations for Thanksgiving
are well under way at my place! We will be celebrating Thanksgiving on Friday when
my step-children arrive. This year it will just be the four of us, nevertheless I am cooking
a turkey with all the fixins'! Mmmm...I can hardly wait! Hehe!
*
I have prepared a small, informal table in our dining room.
I hope you enjoy!
*
Autumn Pears...A Thanksgiving Table

I have used autumn pears in so much of my autumn decor this year. At the
beginning of the season I created a three tiered centerpiece for the dining room
table filled with autumn's bounty. I decided to use this centerpiece for our
Thanksgiving table and continue the theme of "autumn pears".
*

*
The table is dressed in golden yellow, pear green, and warm
browns...the colors of autumn pears!
*

*
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The Centerpiece...

The Centerpiece was created using three tiers of glass pedestal cake plates.
A tall, gold pillar candle sits on the top layer...along with a few wood pods and
three miniature pumpkins. The middle layer is filled with autumn pears. Autumn
berries, woody seed pods, nuts, and two yellow lovebird figurines decorate the
bottom layer.
*
A few wood acorns and autumn pears are scattered about on the gold table
runner. I just love this beautiful gold table runner...it has white vines and leaves
embroidered on each end! A pair of vintage Roseville pottery candleholders sit
on either side of the three tiered centerpiece.
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The Place Setting...

*
The same color theme of golden yellow, pear green, and warm brown form
the layers of the "autumn pear" place setting.
*

*
My latest treasure find...salad/dessert plates featuring pears! I found these pretty
plates on Ebay...it was love at first sight! The pattern, Golden Pears by Julie
Bullimore (1998) are from Crate & Barrel. The set of four plates features
a different type of pear on each plate.
*

I love this shade of pear green and the gold gilded leaves!
*

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A white ironstone dinner plate from my every day dishes.
*

*
I found these beautiful leaf plates on sale at JC Penneys at the end of summer. They
are the same shade of green as the pear salad/dessert plates. I love the way the leaf plate
frames out the place setting! A brown charger plate with embossed autumn leaves on
the rim completes the place setting.
*

I love how the green, white, and brown colors of the place setting look together!
*

A red autumn pear!
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The flatware is called Brahms by Oneida.
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The stemware.
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I layered two dinner napkins.
*
The gold napkin matches the table runner and has the same white vines
embroidered on it. The green and tan plaid napkin brings more of an informal
feel to the setting! A wood napkin ring with embossed autumn leaves ties
nicely in with the charger plate.
*

*
*
*

*
And Voila!!! Autumn Pears...our 2010 Thanksgiving table!
*
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Warmest Thanksgiving Wishes...

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
*
*

Sunday Favorites

Guidelines for Participating in Sunday Favorites

Thank you so much for your participation!!! I am going to really enjoy going through your "Sunday Favorites" posts!!!
*
*

***Just a little note: Sunday Favorites Criteria***

When I first started the Sunday Favorites meme, my initial thought was to offer a solution for getting a post out on the weekend without having to spend alot of time doing so...weekends are just a busy time for most of us! Copying and pasting a previous post is so quick and easy. Not only is this a quick and easy solution to the busy weekends, but it's also an opportunity to dig back into our blog archives and share a favorite "past" post once again! Many of us spend alot of time and effort creating a post and it just seems a shame that it is viewed only once and then forgotten about!

Thank you!!!
*
*

Pheasants by the Fireside...Part II

2011-11-17T10:05:00.004-07:00

Hello my friends...I hope you're having a fabulous day!

A couple of days ago, I shared a few photos of an autumn table that I set in my living

room for Marty's Table Top Tuesday party. Today, I thought I would share the rest of

the photos with you. I hope that you enjoy!

If you would like to see...~Pheasants by the Fireside~ Part I...you can click HERE.

~Pheasants by the Fireside~

Part II

Here we are...with a warm and cozy table set for two...in front of the fireplace in my living room.

Okay...I must admit...my fireplace is not real...it's a faux fireplace! Sorry, but we'll just

have to dream about a warm fire warming us as we dine. Warm fire...or not...an autumn

table set by the fireplace still makes for a sweet dining experience!

This is the fireplace mantel all dressed up for autumn. It makes a beautiful backdrop

for my cozy, autumn table for two.

I brought in a small round table just for this autumn dinner for two. The two

burgandy chairs usually flank either side of the fireplace...they'll make perfect seating.

~Pheasants by the Fireside~

The Table Linens
*

Layers and layers of rich autumn fabric cover the table. The first layer is a long cream

colored damask fabric that puddles over onto the floor. Next...a shorter, dark brown table

cloth with autumn colored embroidered threads...that give it a "plaid-like" appearance.

The top layer and finishing touch...a cream colored tapestry table runner with long

gold fringe on either end.

Two dinner napkins are layered on top of one another as well. An olive green and

khaki checked napkin serves as the bottom layer...an embroidered "goldenrod"

colored napkin sits on top.

~Pheasants by the Fireside~

The Table Centerpiece

Since the table is small, I kept the centerpiece simple. A tall olive green and bronze

candleholder with an "earthy" brown pillar serves as the focal point of the centerpiece.

An autumn pheasant joins the mix...along with a few sprigs of autumn florals.

A view of the table from the opposite direction.

~Pheasants by the Fireside~

The Place Setting

"Brookshire" by Johnson Bros.

I am using Johnson Bros. "Brookshire" china for the place setting. The Brookshire

pattern works beautifully for an autumn table. A band of dark green can be found on

each piece of the place setting...and different types of birds...such as ducks,

geese, pheasants, and feathers...decorate the rims.

The Place Setting...

A brown charger plate with embossed autumn leaves (Walmart)

Brookshire dinner plate,

salad plate,

bread plate,

bowl,

and a Brookshire cup and saucer completes the place setting.

Bamboo handled flatware, a new purchase, is making their debut on this autumn table today!

An autumn pear in the Brookshire bowl...at each place setting.

I love the pheasants on the Brookshire cup!

A single amber colored stem for the beverage.

*Voila...there you have it! "Pheasants by the Fireside"...an autumn table for two!

I hope that you enjoyed!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
*

I am joining these fabulous parties today...

Feathered Nest Friday...hosted by Courtney over at French Country Cottage.

Home Sweet Home party...hosted by Sherry over at The Charm of Home.

Potpourri Friday...hosted by Honey over at "2805".

Tablescape Thursday...hosted by Susan over at Between Naps on the Porch.

Thank you, dear ladies...for hosting these sweet parties for us!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
*

Well dear friends, I am so glad that you stopped by for a visit today! Please leave me a

note and let me know that you were here...I would love to visit with you!

Warmest autumn wishes!

~Pheasants by the Fireside~

2011-11-15T12:20:00.002-07:00

Hello my friends...I hope that you're having a fabulous day!

Wow...I can hardly believe that we are half-way through the month of November

already! It won't be long and we'll be sitting around the table with friends and family

for Thanksgiving.

Autumn has settled in nicely here in my little corner of Colorful Colorado.

The days have been fair but the evenings are chilly...just as autumn should be I

guess! I thought it would be nice to create a warm and cozy autumn table by the

fireside for honey and me. There is nothing like dining by a fire on a chilly

autumn night!

~Pheasants by the Fireside~

Here we are...with a warm and cozy table set for two...in front of the fireplace in my living room.

Okay...I must admit...my fireplace is not real...it's a faux fireplace! Sorry, but we'll just

have to dream about a warm fire warming us as we dine. Warm fire...or not...an autumn

table set by the fireplace still makes for a sweet dining experience!

This is the fireplace mantel all dressed up for autumn. It makes a beautiful backdrop

for my cozy, autumn table for two.

~Pheasants by the Fireside~

The Table Linens
*

Layers and layers of rich autumn fabric cover the table. The first layer is a long cream

colored damask fabric that puddles over onto the floor. Next...a shorter, dark brown table

cloth with autumn colored embroidered threads...that give it a "plaid-like" appearance.

The top layer and finishing touch...a cream colored tapestry table runner with long

gold fringe on either end.

Two dinner napkins are layered on top of one another as well. An olive green and

khaki checked napkin serves as the bottom layer...an embroidered "goldenrod"

colored napkin sits on top.

~Pheasants by the Fireside~

The Table Centerpiece

Since the table is small, I kept the centerpiece simple. A tall olive green and bronze

candleholder with an "earthy" brown pillar serves as the focal point of the centerpiece.

An autumn pheasant joins the mix...along with a few sprigs of autumn florals.

~Pheasants by the Fireside~

The Place Setting

"Brookshire" by Johnson Bros.

I am using Johnson Bros. "Brookshire" china for the place setting. The Brookshire

pattern works beautifully for an autumn table. A band of dark green can be found on

each piece of the place setting...and different types of birds...such as ducks,

geese, and pheasants...decorate the rims.
*

I used a single, amber colored stem for the beverage.

...and...

I am using my newest treasure find...bamboo handled flatware!
*

I just purchased this set from Horchows (online)...they were running a great sale.

I bought a five piece service for four (20 pcs.) for a mere $17! Yay!

An autumn pear in the Brookshire bowl...at each place setting!

A different view from the table.

The sun is waning and it won't be long till dinner!

~Pheasants by the Fireside~

Well my friends, I tried to keep this short today. I will share a bit more of the table

later on in the week! So stay tuned...just thought I would give you a sneak peek!

I am joining Table Top Tuesday...hosted by Marty over at A Stroll Thru Life.

Thank you, Marty...for hosting this lovely party for us!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Well dear friends, thank you so much for coming by today! Please leave

me a note and let me know that you were here. I would love to visit with you!

Warmest autumn wishes!

Sunday Favorites...No. 125

2011-11-12T18:00:00.003-07:00

Welcome to the 125th "Sunday Favorites" Party

"Sunday Favorites" is a Sunday meme designed to give bloggers a chance to share a favorite post from the past!!!
For more information on how to republish a past post just click HERE.

~~~~~~
*

Hello my friends!

Welcome to the 125th run of "Sunday Favorites"
*
I hope that you're having a wonderful weekend! I have been busy planning for Christmas! I know...I know...we haven't even celebrated Thanksgiving yet! Hehe! Honey and I are making a trip to the big city this weekend. Hobby Lobby is on my list of places to go! Yeeehawwww! I LOVE HOBBY LOBBY! I can't wait to see what they have out for Christmas this year.
*
Today for Sunday Favorites, I thought I would share one of my "all time" favorite tablescapes. It's called..."An Autumn Evening by Candlelight"...originally posted November 17, 2010.
*
I had some pretty exciting news to share in that post. This tablescape was featured in Belle Inspiration magazine. It's the first time that I have ever had anything of mine published. Since then, I have had the pleasure of doing a second article and photo shoot. And...I will be having a new article and photo shoot in Belle Inspiration's 2011 Nov./Dec. Holiday issue. Again, I am sitting on pins and needles! I can hardly wait for this issue to come out! Just a little note about Belle Inspiration. This fabulous magazine was founded in September, 2010. It is an online publication, however Belle has gone into print now. Their first printed issue came out last month. It is a fabulous publication that covers a multitude of topics...such as...interior design, fashion, lifestyle, etc. The magazine is based out of Paris, France but it is in English. I have included a link to their site at the end of this post. It is one publication that you will want to get...believe me!!!
*
Well my friends...I'm looking forward to seeing your Sunday Favorites posts this week and visiting with you! You can sign up for the party at the end of this post!

Have a super Sunday!
Chari
*
~~~~~~~~~~~~
*

Sunday Favorites My favorite post from:
November 17, 2010
*
*
~An Autumn Evening by Candlelight~
*

*
Hello my friends...I hope you're having a fabulous day!
*
I am sooo very excited! As many of you know, we have a brand new, online E-Magazine called...Belle Inspiration! This fabulous French publication is the brain-child of our very own Mimi Bleu of Bonjour Romance blog. Mimi and her team of talented editors has successfully created one of the most beautiful magazines ever!!! Belle Inspiration covers a multitude of topics...including articles on interior design, fashion, art, travel, cooking, etc. The very first...premier edition...of Belle Inspiration came out on September 15th. Ohhh my...what "eye candy"! I spent several days just devouring each and every article! A few of our favorite bloggers have feature articles in the premier issue...Rhonda of Blue Creek Home blog and Yvonne of StoneGable blog...to name just a few. Ohhhh...and these ladies are sooo talented!!!

and now...

Belle Inspiration's "Holiday Issue" has arrived!
*
My BIG news...I have an article in the Holiday issue! Okay...can you hear me squealing and doing my "happy dance"? Hehe! Seriously, I feel so very honored that I was asked to be a part of Belle Inspiration! It's really a "dream come true" for me! Thank you, Belle Inspiration!!!

~An Autumn Evening...Candlelight Dinner for Two~
*
* My article is titled, "An Autumn Evening...Candlelight Dinner for Two". I share the "how to's" of creating a special tablescape. So today, I thought I would share a couple of photo snippets from the article as well as a few extra photos of my autumn fireplace mantel. I hope that you enjoy!!!
* *

*
My fireplace mantel in the living room...all dressed up for autumn.
*

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Ahhh...abundant and bountiful autumn!
*

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Autumn foliage...fruit of the vine...and pheasants.
*

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*
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An Autumn Evening by Candlelight...
*

A romantic candlelight dinner for two.
*

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*

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Well my friends...I hope that I whet your appetite for more!
*
You'll have to check out Belle Inspiration for the full show! Wink!
*

*
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*
You can get your subscription to Belle Inspiration HERE.
*
The Holiday Issue really is fabulous...it is 265 pages of pure delight!!!

Well my friends, I hope that you enjoyed my Autumn Evening by Candlelight! Thank you sooo much for letting me share my excitement with you!!! Please leave me a comment and let me know that you were here...I would love to visit with you!
*
Warmest Autumn Wishes!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
*
*

Sunday Favorites

Guidelines for Participating in Sunday Favorites

Thank you so much for your participation!!! I am going to really enjoy going through your "Sunday Favorites" posts!!!
*
*

***Just a little note: Sunday Favorites Criteria***

When I first started the Sunday Favorites meme, my initial thought was to offer a solution for getting a post out on the weekend without having to spend alot of time doing so...weekends are just a busy time for most of us! Copying and pasting a previous post is so quick and easy. Not only is this a quick and easy solution to the busy weekends, but it's also an opportunity to dig back into our blog archives and share a favorite "past" post once again! Many of us spend alot of time and effort creating a post and it just seems a shame that it is viewed only once and then forgotten about!

Thank you!!!
*
*

Bountiful Blessings

2011-11-09T12:16:00.006-07:00

~Thanksgiving~
*
"Give me the end of the year an' its fun
When most of the plannin' an' toilin' is done;
Bring all the wanderers home to the nest,
Let me sit down with the ones I love best,
Hear the old voices still ringin' with song,
See the old faces unblemished by wrong,
See the old table with all of its chairs
An' I'll put soul in my Thanksgivin' prayers."
*
Edgar A. Guest
*

My French Country Dining Room...Thanksgiving 2011

Hello my friends...I hope you're having a fabulous day!

It won't be long till Thanksgiving day is here! Our family loves to celebrate

Thanksgiving. We go all out! After all...it is a special day that we set apart to

thank the Lord for all of His bountiful blessings!

Here we are...in my French country dining room.

After playing with several different Thanksgiving place settings...I think

that I have settle upon this particular one! My two step-children will be here to

help us celebrate this very special occasion...so a table for four it is!

I'm calling this Thanksgiving day table..."Bountiful Blessings".

~Bountiful Blessings~

The Table Centerpiece

An old wooden dough bowl filled with nature's bounty serves as the

centerpiece for our Thanksgiving table.

Clusters of grapes, autumn pears, pomegranites, nuts, dried seed
pods, along with a few autumn florals can be found in the old wooden dough

bowl...along with a stately pheasant and a few pheasant feathers. Deer antlers
and a tall masonary candleholder with an "earthy" brown pillar candle has
joined the mix...to complete this "Bountiful Blessings" Thanksgiving
day table centerpiece.

*
~Bountiful Blessings~
Starring: New Dishes
*
A couple of months ago, I found a beautiful set of "goldenrod" colored dinner
plates (Walmart). I'm not exactly sure why...but I have had a "thing" for this
beautiful shade of golden yellow this autumn. I also found a set of salad/dessert
plates (Walmart) and thought that they would make a nice addition to the
Thanksgiving day place setting. I love the colorful autumn leaves and turkey
on the creamy white background of the salad/dessert plates.
*
I can hardly imagine Thanksgiving...
*
without autumn leaves...turkeys
*
...and...
*
pumpkins!
*
Soooo...I'm using a pumpkin soup tureen at each place setting as well. I
have had the pumpkin tureens for some time now...not sure where I got them.
*

Pumpkin Soup Tureen

The star attraction of the "Bountiful Blessings" place setting

is the individual sized covered pumpkin soup tureen.

I just love the little pumpkin tureens. They sing the praises of

Thanksgiving's bounty so beautifully!

~Bountiful Blessings~

The Place Setting

Layer upon layers...of autumn color and texture make
for a delicious Thanksgiving place setting.

Each place setting consists of:
a woven wicker charger

a brown charger plate with embossed autumn leaves

a "goldenrod" colored dinner plate

a Thanksgiving themed salad plate

a pumpkin soup tureen

brushed finish stainless flatware

a glass stem for iced tea and an amber stem for sparkling cider

and an autumn plaid dinner napkin held by an embossed leaf napkin ring

*
*

The creamy white color of the salad plate...ties all the "whites" of the

table together nicely with the place setting.

*
Layer upon layer...of autumn color and texture for this

"Bountiful Blessings" Thanksgiving place setting!
*

Ohhh...you are beginning to get a view of Mr. Tom Turkey on the

salad plates! We always have the traditional Thanksgiving turkey dinner

with all the fixin's at our place!
*

Ahhh..."goldenrod"!

A few of the autumn leaves as well as a few of Mr. Tom's feathers...share

the same goldenrod color as the dinner plates.

Mr. Tom Turkey...in all of his glory!

~Bountiful Blessings~

The Stemware

A simple clear glass stem for iced tea...and an amber colored stem for sparkling cider.

*
~Bountiful Blessings~
The Table Linens
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A plaid dinner napkin...sporting all the rich, warm colors of autumn.
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Note: Since I am using a long, flaxen colored table runner under
the table centerpiece, I decided not to use a tablecloth.
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The following photos show a few of the "different views" of the table.

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This photo is my favorite!

I love how the burnt orange of the pumpkin tureen looks against

the purple grapes! And...I love the lighting...and shadows!
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A close-up photo of the "Harvest" pitcher.

It pairs nicely with this Thanksgiving table, I think!

Voila...there you have it!

My family's "Bountiful Blessings" Thanksgiving table...2011!

I hope that you enjoyed!

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I am joining these fabulous parties...

Feathered Nest Friday...hosted by Courtney over at French Country Cottage.

Home Sweet Home party...hosted by Sherry over at The Charm of Home.

Open House party...hosted by Sherry over at No Minimalist Here.

Potpourri Friday...hosted by Honey over at "2805".

Tablescape Thursday...hosted by Susan over at Between Naps on the Porch.

Thank you, dear ladies...for hosting these lovely parties for us!

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Well dear friends, I am so glad that you stopped by for a visit today! Please

leave me a note and let me know that you were here. I would love to visit with you!

Warmest Autumn Wishes!

Sunday Favorites...No. 124

2011-11-05T18:00:00.002-06:00

Welcome to the 124th "Sunday Favorites" Party

"Sunday Favorites" is a Sunday meme designed to give bloggers a chance to share a favorite post from the past!!!
For more information on how to republish a past post just click HERE.

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Hello my friends!

Welcome to the 124th run of "Sunday Favorites"
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I hope that you're having a wonderful weekend! It's a bit chilly here at my place. A cold north wind has caused the temperature to drop. It's feeling more and more like winter...eeeks! We have actually had a couple of big snows already in our little corner of Colorado! Nevertheless...a nice warm fire is keeping things nice and toasty inside. It's a great weekend to just curl up with a good book or watch a movie! How are you spending your weekend?
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For the past couple of weeks, I have been sharing a photo tour of my French studio/office for the Sunday Favorites party. Today I am revisiting Part III..."My French Studio/Office...the Photo Tour Finale". I hope that you enjoy!
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Well my friends...I'm looking forward to seeing your Sunday Favorites posts this week and visiting with you! You can sign up for the party at the end of this post!

Have a super Sunday!
Chari
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Sunday Favorites My favorite post from:
August 18, 2011
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"My French Studio/Office...The Photo Tour Finale"
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Bonjour, mes ames...I hope you're having a fabulous day!

Ohhh my goodness...I do hope that you aren't getting sick of seeing my french studio/office.
This post is the third...in a series...and it will be the "finale"! I promise! Hehe!

My French Studio/Office...Part I

can be seen HERE.

My French Studio/Office...The Photo Tour Continues

can be seen HERE.
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The posts listed above...focus on my desk area and a few "French Flavored" vignettes.
Today, I thought I would share the rest of my frenchy studio/office. I'll give you a photo
tour around the room. Because this is a photo "laden" post...I really will try and keep
my yakking to a minimum! Hehe!

I hope that you enjoy!

My French Studio/Office

Here we are in my little french studio/office.

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"360-degree" Photo Tour

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As you enter into the room...my desk is just to the right of the door.
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I will try and give you a 360-degree...full circle... photo tour of my
studio/office. Well, I'll show you at least three walls of the room...a large
closet resides on the fourth wall. This is a fairly small room...measuring
10'x12'....but it's cozy! This room belongs just to moi! It is filled with all of
my favorite things...so when I need a little inspiration...my frenchy studio is
where I go! It's my "Calgon...take me away" getaway! Hehe!
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French Toile and a Decorative French Grate...

Toile drapes by Waverly dress the window. The toile, sporting bucolic
country scenery...in a black and khaki color palette, is called La Petite
Ferme. A large, decorative metal grate...resting in the sill of the
window...offers a little extra french ambiance in the studio!

An old ladder back chair with a rush seat sits in front of the window. I just love my
old ladder back chair. It has the most beautiful distressed yellow ochre finish! A
large wooden chest full of treasures is sitting on the chair.

(Because my studio has just one window, the limited light makes photographing
a challenge. A few of the photos are on the dark side...sorry!)

A gallery wall with a few of my favorite pieces is located beside the window.

French Gallery Wall...

A framed giclee print of a beautiful, 18th century, french lady sets
the tone for the french gallery wall. A trio of decorative plates and a
large framed "fleur de lis" join the group...along with a black french
scroll decorative topper!

The antique camel-back trunk was a birthday gift from my honey. This beautiful trunk
has metal inserts with a black and white embossed floral pattern...it looks like toile! I
just adore my antique trunk and it's great for extra storage!!!

Well my friends, they do say that photos never lie. I must confess, for you can see it
with your very own eyes...that my little french studio/office...is my "catch-all" room.
Much of my "off season" decor ends up in this room. Eeeks! You will see that each
and every little nook and corner is filled with "things"! Ohhh my!

My China Cabinet...A Treasured Family Heirloom

My china cabinet sits on the opposite wall from the desk. It really is a very large piece
and as you can see...I have it filled to the brink. This beautiful china cabinet belonged
to my late mother-in-law and it was her pride and joy. Some day Mary's china cabinet
will be passed down to her granddaughter Danielle, but in the meantime, I will enjoy
and cherish this beautiful piece!

A full view of this side of the room.

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A French Vignette...

Bird houses and birds, stacked decorative boxes with tassels, an olden bottle, a stately
french crown, a sweet little violin, and lots of vining greenery make up the vignette
atop the china cabinet.

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~A Design Tip for Making a Small Room Appear Larger~
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Do you decorate the tops of your tall cabinets?
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I find that in doing so...the eye is drawn upward...bringing height to the room.
This can help a small room look larger.

A gold damask slip covered chair fills this corner...along with a few pillows. Can
you tell that I have a "thing" for pretty pillows? They are everywhere! Hehe! A
pretty french mirror, a treasured family photo, and another decorative metal grate
with a candle...decorate this corner of my studio.

The decorative french grate. I added an urn shaped candleholder to the
grate...just a little more french flair.

Treasured Family Photograph and Antique Frame...

The little boy in the middle of this photo is my honey's grandfather. He is posing with his
siblings and puppy. The frame is original to the photograph (taken about 1917). Isn't it
gorgeous? It is in perfect condition...as well as the "domed" glass!

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My New Embroidered Pearl Tea Cloth
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While we are here...I would love to show you one of my new pretties. This gorgeous,
embroidered with pearls...tea cloth was a gift from my dear friend Gloria from
Happy To Be blog. Gloria and her husband Len came for a visit in June. We had
the bestest time!!! Anyway, I love, love, LOVE my new tea cloth!
Thank you, Sis!!!

A close-up so that you can see the beautiful embroidery and all of those
fabulous...hand sewn...pearl petals! This truly is one of the most beautiful
pieces that I've ever seen! I can't wait to set a pretty tea with it!

~A Few Frenchy Details~
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Just a few photos...showing some of the details around my studio.

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More Cherished Family Heirlooms...Family Bibles
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If you look closely, you will see a stack of books underneath the chair. Two
of the books are very old family Bibles. The largest Bible (on the bottom)
dates back to the mid 1800's...recording my honey's family history. It is just
beautiful...with a very ornate, engraved leather cover. This precious
Family Bible is priceless!!!

A Wooden Chest Full of French Treasures...

Fabric samples, a black and white french vase, an antique frame, a brown
transferware plate, old photos and antique photo albums, and a "frenchy" golden
crown with an olden photo of a child and of course...a sweet little bird. A garland
of pearls makes its way...in and out...and around the treasures.

Voila! There you have it...my french studio/office!

I hope you enjoyed the photo tour!

Warmest Summery Wishes!

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Sunday Favorites

Guidelines for Participating in Sunday Favorites

Thank you so much for your participation!!! I am going to really enjoy going through your "Sunday Favorites" posts!!!
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***Just a little note: Sunday Favorites Criteria***

When I first started the Sunday Favorites meme, my initial thought was to offer a solution for getting a post out on the weekend without having to spend alot of time doing so...weekends are just a busy time for most of us! Copying and pasting a previous post is so quick and easy. Not only is this a quick and easy solution to the busy weekends, but it's also an opportunity to dig back into our blog archives and share a favorite "past" post once again! Many of us spend alot of time and effort creating a post and it just seems a shame that it is viewed only once and then forgotten about!

Thank you!!!
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Sweet November Autumn...Happy Friday!

2011-11-04T08:30:00.002-06:00

Ahhhhh....sweet November autumn!

Hello my friends...I hope you're having a fabulous day.

This week we had our second snow of the season here in Colorful Colorado. It has

been really cold with daytime temps barely reaching into the 30's...and nightime temps

getting down into the lower teens....brrrr! It is suppose to warm up a bit today,

however I think that autumn...is slowly but surely...giving way to the winter season.

At least in my "neck of the woods". I'm not sure that I'm ready for this!

I really haven't accomplished much the last week or so. My achey bones are trying

to adjust to the colder temperatures. I'm moving slower than molasses in January!

~Sweet November Autumn~

New Autumn Salad/Dessert Plates...

I did find a pretty set of autumn salad/dessert plates at Walmart last week and

decided to play a bit with a place setting. I thought I would share just a few photos of

the table with you today. Hopefully I can share the entire table next week.

~Sweet November Autumn~

Place Setting

woven wicker charger

brown charger plate with embossed autumn leaves

"goldenrod" colored dinner plate

November leaves and turkey salad/dessert plate

...and a...

pretty pumpkin soup tureen!

With Autumn Glory Such as This

"I am rich today with autumn's gold,
All that my covetous hands can hold;
Frost-painted leaves and goldenrod,
A goldfinch on a milkweed pod,
Huge golden pumpkins in the field
With heaps of corn from a bounteous yield,
Golden apples heavy on the trees
Rivaling those of Hesperides,
Golden rays of balmy sunshine spread
Over all like butter on warm bread;
And the harvest moon will this night unfold
The streams running full of molten gold.
Oh, who could find a dearth of bliss
With autumn glory such as this!"

By Gladys Harp

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I am joining these fabulous parties...

Feathered Nest Friday...hosted by Courtney over at French Country Cottage.

Home Sweet Home...hosted by Sherry over at The Charm of Home.

Potpourri Friday...hosted by Honey over at "2805".

Thank you, dear ladies...for hosting these lovely parties for us!

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Well my friends...I'm so happy that you dropped by for a visit today!

Have a fabulous Friday and a wonderful weekend!

Warmest Autumn Wishes!