the holly and the ivy

good morning and happy sunday! it seems most of the country is snowy this weekend so i’m a little out of the loop being in florida. when i started seeing images of winter this morning, i couldn’t help but get into the spirit of holiday decorating. my place has a little sprig here and there…

not much but the rosemary tree is fragrant and the berries are festive. i couldn’t go too far since i’m heading up north again on thursday. i had to do something though, because somehow it never quite feels like the holidays here the way it did up north.

even though i don’t decorate much, it got me thinking about how simple it is to get the holiday vibe with just a touch of green. below are some of the shots creative bloggers all over the net have shared. if you’re not in the mood to do a lot of decorating this year, maybe a hint of greenery will get you in the spirit.

ok it always helps to have a chateau but a simple garland above any door adds a welcoming touch

it all starts with having the right stuff. garland, sprigs, branches…anything will do

making your own decorations with nature is about as easy as it gets

i adore these green tassles!

easy as pie!

i’d like to incorporate nature in wrapping presents this year. maybe even skip the paper?

one tiny branch can speak volumes

cinnamon is a nice touch

maybe it’s time for some new placecards

ok i daresay i’m a lazy holiday decorator…does it get any easier than this?

anything reflecting in a mirror adds instant glam, charm and festivity

a pinecone or two add just the right touch

i thought this was sweet and clever

if you’re feeling ambitious and have a pot or two, this is a strong and simple statement

by george if you’ve got a chandelier or a dress form, why not use it?

well it’s getting to be (early) afternoon already and it seems i fell into a christmas abyss. i know you’re probably decorating and if so, why not share your images on pinterest? in the meantime, i’m keeping this last shot as my screensaver. it’s my parents’ garden where they usually cut evergreens, holly leaves and berries to decorate the house. i wonder if they’ll be able to do it this year? i’ll be home soon enough to see, and i’ll have my fill of decorating with all the love that mom and dad put into the house, the tree and the food making every year one to remember. enjoy your prep and most of all, have fun!