Christmas Mantel 2012

The Christmas decor linky parties have begun!

It's time to show you this year's Christmas mantel.

As you can see from my mantel last year, I went for a more simple look this year.

Three things made me choose to simplify.

First of all, with the wooden cubby on the library table next to the fireplace, 

I don't want things to look too overwhelmingly busy and cluttered in our living room.

Secondly, my missionary daughter and grandkids are staying with us 

until their trip to Ghana in February.

So,  I want our happy, busy and full house to have an atmosphere of calm and peace, 

even in the way I decorate.

Lastly, I notice that lately I am very much drawn to the "less is more look" of Nordic design, 

and wanted to adapt a bit of that design philosophy into my own home.

As a result, much of my usual Christmas decor stayed in the totes in the garage, 

and I tried to use "just enough", to bring in the warmth of the holiday.

Glitter letters purchased at Walmart spell NOEL and hang from a naturally arched branch,

above a mirrored window.

Pinecones hang on the mirrored window from simple, but festive, ribbon.

Three tiny cypress trees bought at the grocery store were placed in zinc containers on the mantel.

Mercury glass votives are nested in some fresh greens clipped in my back yard.

I think I'm liking my "less is more" mantel!

Still following,