Christmas Around the House

I always love Christmas decorating, and this year the kids are really into it too, so it is super fun. That said, I didn't feel like going all out. I put up about half of what we have, and the rest I'm going to donate.

We always put up the tree the day after Thanksgiving. Mike had to work that day, so we waited until evening but still got it up. 

I let the kids put on all the ornaments with mixed success. Ben put them all front and center at his eye level, except Batman, which he had Mike lift him up to put on the top to "watch out for us." Every time I'd hand Liv an ornament, she'd ooh and ahh over it, and then put it in her "purse" to keep. Typical Livvie--so cute.

We also decorated the mantel with garland and stockings.

I picked up a few new pillows too. This one is from Target. As is the one below it for the playroom.

This one I LOVE, from Pottery Barn.

The Christmas cards are starting to roll in. This year the card tree is in the family room.

In the entryway, my pointsettia. Still living after 2 weeks! And chalkboard with a few decorations.

In the dining room we have garland, where our elf, Smartie, is hanging out today. Oh my goodness do the kids love finding his hiding spot every morning. 

I have all but one present bought and wrapped. And the last one is just a giftcard, easy peasy. These are Ben and Liv's teacher gifts--we got them each a pack of Sharpies (a huge hit last year and you can always find amazing sales on them this time of year), a Target gift card, and these little Rudolph candy cups (Pinterest). Ben and I whipped them up today while he was home sick (although not really sick anymore but we were being safe).

My new chalkboard got some love. I've been practicing my skills but don't have the patience for anything very impressive.

In the kitchen we've got the candy advent calendars, the Santa coutdown hanging, and a little free art print in the top frame. Other than some holiday towels and a jar of candy, there is not too much going on in the kitchen.

I also got this new printable for $5. You can't tell but it's 16x20. Obviously I struggled to get a good pic due to the bad lighting (and my bad skills).

In the kids' rooms, we have mini trees and baby trees. I couldn't resist the mini battery-operated trees at Target. Very pretty at night with the lights out.

And last but not least, this cute sign from the target dollar spot hanging on the inside of our front door.

Merry Christmas!!!