Wall of Love

I have lagged a bit on getting our Christmas cards out this year. But thankfully, many people have not. 

This year I wanted to display the cards that are so lovingly sent from those from near and far. Ideally in a place everyone could see them and the kids could pick out friends and family's faces. I had lofty DIY goals that involved string and stars and washi tape. 

And just like every other pinned DIY and bookmarked design blog challenging me to be creative and resourceful, it never happened. 

When the cards started arriving, I decided I did not need anything fancy, just some scotch tape and blank space. So the side of the fridge has become the Wall of Love. A once blank space has started to fill with the pictures of chubby baby cheeks and wide eyed toddlers. Of loving parents, very proud grandparents and tinseled homes. And when each day the wall gets covered more, it makes me a little teary.

There is so much love, so much joy, and so much to be grateful for when I look at that wall. What a beautiful reminder of those that love us and their happy lives. That they are feeling joy and love and special moments together. It really makes the season even more special. 

There is much to be celebrated, and not just in our own lives. But every one's. 

We all have complications, stresses, tragedy, and disappointment. Some more than others. But 'tis the season to be joyful. To be grateful. And to celebrate all the love.  Because there is a lot of it happening all around us. 

And that perfect display is not missed. In fact, the imperfection of it all makes it even more lovely. And I cannot wait to fill it even more. 

Happy Weekend
xo
Erin 

Just Add Antlers

I am back from the sunshine and gearing up for another frigid week. Being away is so nice, but sometimes coming home can be the best. It reminds you of why you love where you live. Minus the polar vortex, of course. 

Ever since we got home, I have been in full organize/decor mode. Mostly to try and clear all the clutter created by the babes or their stuff that is. But also a little refreshing makes spaces feel newer, even if it is just moving a vase from here to there. One new item that I have added to the abode is this set of elk antlers I scored at a local antique store. 

They were originally slated for above our bed, but they were too tall. So they have found a home above our back door that leads to the mudroom/laundry/garage. I actually think this is a better spot in all. 

These babies are no joke, heavy and super tall. Why this space makes more sense is it brings your eye up more to the vaulted ceiling that only runs along one side of the kitchen/family room. 

I have used antlers before in the faux variety in the dining room. Because we live in the country, a little nature seems very appropriate to incorporate into the decor. 

If you are looking for real antlers such as these, the best resource is your local antique or thrift store. Ask the owner to be on the look out in their shopping and they can find you one if they do not have one already. Ebay and Hunter's Alley also usually have some. 

You can find some great faux options at West Elm. 

These run only $99-$199 and are papier-mache. 

This Etsy store is where the deer head is from in my dining room. 

They have every color combination that you could want and animal. These are plaster, so the quality is better. Also under $100. 

The woman who runs the antique store that I got the antlers from said "you can never go wrong with nature," when I was contemplating the purchase. Which is kind of cheesy, but so true. Look how a little nature has made a big impact in these spaces. 

Such a cool collection of antlers...

Love the mix of something rustic with the modern kitchen finishes... 

Even antlers can be femme...

They are such a great addition to this vignette... 

Happy antler hunting. 

xo

Erin