"And the prettiest sight you'll see
it the holly that will be
on your own front door."
Love that song!
Well it may not exactly be holly on our front door, but it is pretty and it is beginning to look a lot like Christmas at the too Blessed to Stress home.
I think Bing got it right. Yes indeed, a cheery front door may just be one of the most welcoming parts of your Christmas decor. There is just something about it that beckons you in and says
"Welcome Home:
May all who enter find rest."
This past weekend we had friends over for an unexpected party {more on that wonderful day later!}
One of our newer friends commented that we must like country decor and shabby chic because our home had that look and feel. I told her we kind of go for a farmhouse-chic-country-glitz feel. {Yep I'm sure that is the official name.} She said that we had achieved the look we were going for and that she liked it.
What a compliment to have someone recognize the style you strive for... and to notice on the first visit! Let me just say, I was so very flattered.
And while it made me all happy that someone enjoyed the decor of our home, the real compliments came as the party was winding down. I mentioned to our guests what a joy it was to have them in our home, to come any time and I hope they felt like they were at home. On the way they said:
they felt welcome,
they always rest when they are over,
they felt revived,
they needed the fellowship,
they felt at home.
That is the real look I'm going for.
The glitz and fluff of a home has no purpose if it is not a warm and welcome refuge. All the cute stuff in the world does not make a home. Yes it makes it look lovely and a beautiful home is one way to show love and how much you care about those who live there. But it is the connections and fellowship that make up a home:
love shared there,
kind words,
comfort when times are tough,
shared laughter,
making time for someone else,
faith, family and friendship.
Home for the holidays.
It sure feels good!
Create a welcoming home this season.
Go ahead! Deck the halls... and be sure take time to enjoy the ones you love, share love, and create a safe place for all who enter.
All photos taken by yours truly.
