The first skiff of snow was the green light to start decorating for the holidays. Charlie is as naughty as the day we brought her home, which will dictate what style of decorating is logical and impossible. Anything breakable will have to be well out of her range! I’ve started with the almost indestructible decorations.
Many of you have collected Christmas villages over the years. Some have nativity scenes while others set up an elaborate train station with tracks circling the tree complete with the town it provides for.
My take on this is much simpler but no less special…to me. I play house with the rustic zinc houses I’ve been collecting.
Last year I displayed my “neighbourhood” on one of the buffets in the dining room. Although it was well out of “harm’s way”, it took away valuable space needed when entertaining. This year I’ve set up my neighbourhood on the coffee table, which could be risky!
*** My imagination was in overdrive and I’m guessing no one else will see my vision! But let me explain.
In my town square, I started with a “Rockefeller”-style tree (too large in scale)—one of the cypress trees I’m overwintering in the house. The branches won’t hold ornaments, but I’ve wrapped them in mini lights. Next, I placed a candelabra to represent a street lantern and the church, mandatory in every central square, with the door open to all.
I’ve tried taking a photo of the whole display but it looks too cluttered because I can’t (lacking tech skills) filter out all the background noise. You’ll have to take my word that it could fit into any Hallmark movie!
The cul-de-sac circles the town square…I told you my imagination has gone wild!
The deer with their tin flower wreaths and bottlebrush trees compliment the neighbourhood.
Charlie oversees the set-up, eyeing what she can most easily get into!
Have you started your holiday decorating?
xox Judy❤️
Hi Judy, your “neighbourhood” is beautiful and without a doubt it would fit into any Hallmark movie…..and what would this time of year be without those👍👏! Is that a mini Charlie I see in the cul-de-sac with a Christmas tree in her mouth 😂? I’m getting a good laugh at the expression on Charlie’s face. I’d love to know what’s going on in her mind. She’s adorable🥰! I’ve also started decorating for Christmas…even in the back garden! You can never have enough twinkling lights (anywhere!) as far as I’m concerned. I use my sideboard in the dining room to set up all my little zinc houses I bought from you and I love how they all look at night with my little fairy lights strung through them. Enjoy your beautiful “neighbourhood” Judy! Hugs, Karen xo❤️
Thank you Karen, your imagination must be on overdrive too! Yes, that is a mini Charlie ornament that I got at Pottery Barn last year. It was perfect for her. Thank you for the reminder about the mini lights in your back garden…I have forgotten to turn mine on. Have fun with the rest of your decorating projects. xox Judy❤️
Oh wow! Your post brought out so many emotions. The last one I’ve been trying desperately to quiet. Laughter, empathy & anxiety are at the forefront.
Laughter because puppies are so cute and especially when they’re expressing their playfulness and curiosity. Who can resist those loveable little faces. Absolutely not me.
Empathy because I totally get it! We have our daughter’s new puppy a few days a week since she got him in February. He’s an Australian Shepherd that just had his first birthday. So full of energy with intelligence to boot! One green eye and one blue. Let me tell you, it’s very clear when you’re about to experience caos. Boredom comes out I. Those eyes! Every moment is an adventure. From eating rocks, baseboards and anything else he finds interesting. He’ll even walk on his two hind legs if he thinks he’ll get food. An extremely loveable little monster! Kinda like his master. She certainly was training for us.
Then there’s the anxiety. Last year I had a really beautiful tree. Lots of crystal, glass and breakable treasures. The tree will be out of his space but I’m not convinced that it will matter if he wants to get in there. He’s very curious and resourceful. He’s never experienced Christmas so this is going to be a challenge. Mr Ranger Sir is very quick in learning any training. It’s his attention that requires work. As we all know, shiny things are attractive. I keep telling myself that next year will be better. You’ve just confirmed that Charlie is gearing up for her own eventful season. NO! Charlie is an angel! She’s my inspiration and hope! Tell me she’s at least a little better than last year.
Charlie I’m routing for you!!!
PS Correction. Rooting. I was so hopeful i mistyped. And I love the zinc houses. Do you know where I can get them now that your lovely store is no longer an option? I know. I’m slow to the table.
Hi Joyce, it sounds like your little granddog would be Charlie’s best friend! Like you, all of my tree decorations are glass and many one of a kind gifts, collected from trips, or special ones from the store. When I did put up a tree I was so emotional because of all the memories attached to each one. I can’t say Charlie is getting better…sorry to say. She is my best companion and can’t imagine my life without her BUT she is trouble and has to be monitored at ALL times! It sounds like your situation is similar. Where would we be without our furry friends? Maybe next year… xox Judy❤️