I can’t believe I’m writing this post.  Not that I’m writing a post about decorating for Christmas.  But specifically, this house for Christmas.

Let me backup to a year ago.  This time in 2017, I wrote a post about Christmas in our house.  Back then, there were two things on my mind.  The first: wondering if our kids would ever wake up in their own home on Christmas morning.  The second, searching for a house we would call home.  {One of my daily journal entries was ” I will live in a house I love”}.

And now, 365 days later, both of those wishes are realities.  We are hosting Christmas at my house this year and will play Santa on the 24th in our new house that we love!  And I’m so excited!

HOSTING CHRISTMAS FOR THE FIRST TIME

It’s been really fun decorating the house this year. With the neutral color palette, I felt like I can add more decorations without it feeling overbearing. I’ve loved adding plaid, gold accents, and pretty blues to our living areas.  Plus, the kids are really getting into Christmas this year – we seriously watch the Grinch every day.

I’m also super excited about our matching family pajamas!! Marielle and I are wearing this adorable set and we even got one for my mom to wear with us. I love the pattern and it just feels so Christmasy!!

^^ My pajama top and bottom \ Marielle’s pajamas \ Sheets \ Bed Frame

Shop Christmas Pajamas

 

 

 ^^ Gold Candle Sticks \ Taper Candles \ Gold Bowl \ Mercury Glass Votives  \ Ornaments:  gold and chinoiserie \ Table \ Stockings \ Tree Skirt  \ Mercury Trees here and here \ Plaid Pillows \  Holiday candles here and here 

HOLIDAY CARD DISPLAY

This was a DIY project that just came together for me.  As I learned from last year making a time consuming Advent calendar, DIY isn’t my strong suit.  However, I knew that I wanted to hang fresh garland on my staircase. So when the Christmas tree sale came about, I ordered 75 feet.

To hang it in place I used some gold ribbon.  For the cards, I actually had a few things in mind after a some Pinterest searching.  But then I saw these lights with clips in the dorm section of Target and knew it was the easiest way.  Now the cards are front and center!  For my staircase, I had to get two light sets.

CHRISTMAS ACTIVITIES WITH THE KIDS

This year, we picked up a second smaller tree for the kids.  They loved decorating themselves and making it their own.  Each year, Sam receives an ornament from his godmother.  This year, he filled his tree with them!

Additionally, I found this advent calendar at Target. I wasn’t sure if the kids would be into it, but every morning they come down to shout out the Christmas countdown.

^^ Train Cake pan

This train cake mold is a new tradition. Sam is really into trains and this cake is so fun to make. It’s also great that I can get the kids to help me make the batter. Once it’s done, then you have the perfect treat to eat while watching The Polar Express.

All in all, this has been one of the best holiday seasons for me.  I feel more relaxed and less anxious about all the travel.  Now, just looking forward to spending time with family, sipping hot chocolate,  and watching Christmas through Sam and Marielle’s eyes.

If this is your first year hosting a holiday get together, don’t sweat the small stuff and enjoy the process. Things don’t need to be perfect, the memories are in the moments.

Wishing everyone a safe, happy, healthy Christmas this year!

 

xoxo,

Kellie