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My 2009 House Tour: I’ll Be Home for Christmas

by | Dec 10, 2009 | Christmas Decorating, Christmas House Tours

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My 2009 House Tour: I'll Be Home for Christmas

Welcome to my home! I’m happy to say this year, I’ll be HOME for Christmas! Yay! If you remember my long saga from the past couple of years, you’ll know how special it is to be able to say that!

For those of you who are new here, this is my new house after a two year long ordeal with my husband being without work and then us moving to a new state and our old house not selling for a whole year. Finally, we bought this house about 8 weeks ago! Happy dance.

We have lots to do to make it our own (like painting and curtains, for starters!), but it feels great just to know we can actually get settled!

Even though I am relieved to be HOME, I didn’t go hog wild with my decorations this year. This year it was all about simplicity and sanity. And no perfection allowed, as you will see. Real life. At my house, we are decorating for ourselves, not to show the world how perfect our home is (because it isn’t) or how magazine cover worthy every corner is (because CLEARLY it isn’t).

I’m not going to pretend to have it all together and expect you all to do the same. In fact, I hope you’ll have lots of imperfection in your holiday decorating too. That way we can all feel more hospitable and friendly and not overly impressed or overly stressed about our homes. That is just not at all what Christmas is supposed to be about. There are much more important things to be concerned about.

My 2009 House Tour: I'll Be Home for Christmas

So, head up on the porch and you’ll find a little greenery and colored lights.

My 2009 House Tour: I'll Be Home for Christmas

To the right of the front door I have my epsom salt candles, which I forgot to light. oops!

Welcome! Come in and get out of the cold! It has been about 4 degrees here at night and about 20 during the day lately. And we live in Washington, which is not exactly the mid-west. Brrrr…..

My 2009 House Tour: I'll Be Home for Christmas

Come on in! Here is my ever changing apothecary jar display on the old familiar cabinet in the entry! If you have been to my blog before, I have shown this cabinet 10 million times now. And now you get to see this jar with the Christmas balls.

My 2009 House Tour: I'll Be Home for Christmas

I skipped all the greenery on the stairs this year to simplify, but I did add a ball wreath on each post.

My 2009 House Tour: I'll Be Home for Christmas

This is a peek at the living room, which is to the left when you enter. I got those mercury glass candlesticks at Costco! We’ll swing back to the living room at the very end of this tour.

My 2009 House Tour: I'll Be Home for Christmas

This is a little table in the entry, the wise men are offering gifts.

Now, let’s head back to where we hang out most of the time before we head into the dining room…

My 2009 House Tour: I'll Be Home for Christmas

I showed these shots a week or so ago, this is our family room fireplace and my refurbished cabinet doors turned shutters.

My 2009 House Tour: I'll Be Home for Christmas

My 2009 House Tour: I'll Be Home for Christmas

Pulling back a little, this is where we spend most of our time, all huddled up by the fire.

My 2009 House Tour: I'll Be Home for Christmas

My 2009 House Tour: I'll Be Home for Christmas

While I’d like to say that we are huddled up by the fire every day reading holiday classics or listening to Christmas music, here (and above) is the unstyled and realistic look at our daily life. But, this is a party so let’s pretend Sponge Bob on a big screen didn’t ruin it. Ok? Moving on.

My 2009 House Tour: I'll Be Home for Christmas

Red candlesticks and some candy canes (which have almost all been eaten, eh hem) bring in a little red to the recently painted green hutch in the kitchen!

My 2009 House Tour: I'll Be Home for Christmas

I just tucked in bits and pieces of leftover greenery here and there to make what I have already a little more festive.

My 2009 House Tour: I'll Be Home for Christmas

And here, you can see how we view our tree from the kitchen and all the way from our family room! The perfect tree location, for our not so perfect but lovable tree! We cut down our tree in the dark one cold night, so once we saw it in the light we realized it came to us with its own charming imperfections. But it is a beautiful shade of blue green and smells heavenly!

At our old house our tree was in the living room but the only way to see it was to hike across the house and down a flight of stairs. I am loving this smaller house!

My 2009 House Tour: I'll Be Home for Christmas

We are having a little get together at our house this week so I decided to put out the chargers to set serving plates on, rather than using a tablecloth. And that bird tree thingy in the middle of the table was a late night attempt at an easy centerpiece, using what I had on hand. I just hope no one thinks it is edible. I’ll be very embarrassed if someone tries to eat the moss.

My 2009 House Tour: I'll Be Home for Christmas

This is my everyday dining room buffet display, with the addition of the snowflake garland and a jeweled glass ball on the candlestick.

My 2009 House Tour: I'll Be Home for Christmas

We were excited to realize that if we put our tree in the dining room we could see it from just about everywhere on the main floor, and it was out of the way enough to make room for entertaining!

See the light wires hanging down on our tree? It is my husband’s job to do the lights and he was too busy this time. So, they are just strewn on there every which way. We might straighten them. Or, we might not. Right now, I’m thinking not.

My 2009 House Tour: I'll Be Home for Christmas

I love my ornaments.  I didn’t put everything I own on the tree this year — not all the lights, not the ribbons, but it is still pretty to me in its simplicity. It is hard to capture simplicity in a photo, but even without all the extra “stuff” a real tree is beautiful!

I gave the kids some of the memorable ornaments from way back when…and they are now happily residing on their own trees in their rooms!

My 2009 House Tour: I'll Be Home for Christmas

After all my intentions of using a more unique container this year for my tree, I realized THIS tree drops SAP on the floor! So, a tree skirt, er quilt, DOES have its advantages!

Here you can see the tree from the living room. Notice how the photos in this post go from day to night outside, and then back to daylight and back to night. Fancy.

My 2009 House Tour: I'll Be Home for Christmas

I made some felt garland this year, every year for the past few years I’ve made an easy garland for fun and this was it this year. I saw something similar in my Christmas book from Country Living. Very simple (here is a tutorial!)!

My 2009 House Tour: I'll Be Home for Christmas

The green glass jars are always on the living room window sill, but I just added a glass ball wreath to make it a little more holidayish! Just a quick peek upstairs and we’ll be done for now! …

My 2009 House Tour: I'll Be Home for Christmas

This is our little bedroom tree. I’ve always wanted one and this was the year! I kept it simple and just added a sparkly monogram ornament for each person (and Winston, of course) in our family.

Thanks for stopping by!

For more Christmas posts click here!

118 Comments

  1. Jai

    Beautiful! Love your wisemen. They are wonderful!
    .-= Jai@wifeof1momof4´s last blog ..Good morning heartache =-.

    Reply
  2. Sherri

    Your home is so beautiful! It looks perfect to me! I really love those Costco candle sticks and the porch is beautiful! This is my first time linking up to the Holiday Linky! Thank you for taking the time to host this day! We get to see some amzing Christmas Decorating thanks to you! Have a great Friday, and weekend too! Sherri : )

    Reply
  3. Gena

    Congratulations on your new home, Melissa, it looks lovely (I didn’t realise that that was why you needed to repaint your walls!?!?) and well done on your christams decor – really simple!!
    .-= Gena´s last blog ..Baubles, Candles and more: 14 Days to Christmas =-.

    Reply
  4. Becky K.

    Melissa,
    I loved your tour! We have not decorated yet…I have simply been too busy making candles. However, tonight might be the night! Or maybe tomorrow. Terrible, isn’t it?

    I loved the ornament wreath on each stair rail idea!

    And your tree is so sweet!

    Becky K.
    .-= Becky K.´s last blog ..Leisurely Afternoon…and CHEESE! =-.

    Reply
  5. Arleen

    Hi Melissa. Yes, I sure do remember how you spent Christmas last year! I recall thinking that it would be a Christmas you would treasure for its simplicity. And you will remember this year for its new beginning and the glorious feeling of being at home, which looks absolutely beautiful! Thank you for sharing your photographs with us and for hosting another fun party! ~Arleen
    .-= Arleen @ Seasons for All´s last blog ..Favorite Christmas Decor =-.

    Reply
  6. m

    Gorgeous decorations, worthy of a King.

    m ^..^
    .-= m´s last blog ..‘Tis The Season… =-.

    Reply
  7. Robin All Things Heart and Home

    Melissa this is delightful. I your house! You’ve done an amazing job at pulling things together, it feels warm and inviting.
    Love the felt garland…and you made it!
    Robin
    All Things Heart and Home
    .-= Robin All Things Heart and Home´s last blog ..Christmas Open House =-.

    Reply
  8. Natasha

    Your home is simply gorgeous. I love everything you have done -so elegant, so festive and so welcoming. I even love spongebob (my son has a spongebob stocking!)

    Thanks for sharing these lovely pictures.

    Best wishes, Natasha.
    .-= Natasha´s last blog ..A silent and candlelit Christmas night… =-.

    Reply
  9. Stacy

    Your home looks beutiful. Just the right amount of decorating – fetive but not over done! Love the felt garland.
    .-= Stacy @ Red Door Home´s last blog ..Gingerbread House Decorating Party =-.

    Reply
  10. Jerri

    Beautiful mantle! And I also love the ball-wreath, and the balls in the jar! Very pretty!

    Hope to see you next week for the Holly Bloggy Christmas Bash!

    Reply
  11. Emily

    beautiful home, melissa. truly stunning, yet simple.

    i think i may have to try that felt garland idea. too cute!

    i love love love your tree. the green color and the silver is really gorgeous.

    i could go on and on but i won’t.

    so glad you are home.
    .-= Emily@remodelingthislife´s last blog ..Morning =-.

    Reply
  12. Kathleen Grace

    I think your decorations are beautiful! With making gifts and a newly plastered ceiling in the dining room I just dont have time to decorate a lot this year. As long as I have some lights and greens and ornaments though, I’m all right:>)
    .-= Kathleen Grace´s last blog ..Handmade Holidays =-.

    Reply
  13. Sandy Blaxland

    It’s beautiful! I love the simplicity of the tree and the fact you can see it from the kitchen. I too have a small house but not big enough to do that. So, I try to be up early enough in the morning that I can sit in the dark in the quiet and have tea in front of the tree — before 3 thundering girls head downstairs for school!

    Reply
  14. black eyed susans kitchen

    It is all so lovely, Melissa. I especially like the use of non-traditional shades of blue and green. Wishes for the very merriest Christmas ever!
    Susan
    .-= black eyed susans kitchen´s last blog ..HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS =-.

    Reply
  15. Richella

    Melissa, your home looks absolutely beautiful!

    I am really appreciating your push to simplicity this year. We live in a pretty big house, and I keep being plagued with thoughts that I just haven’t decorated enough or been creative enough. With encouragement from you, today I’m saying ENOUGH. Time for me to call it good, put away the decorating “mess” and just enjoy Christmastime with my family.

    By the way, my youngest son would think SpongeBob is the best part of this post. I admit I have a soft spot for that rascal myself–he always has a good attitude, and I appreciate that!

    Thank you for sharing your home with us. Having followed you for awhile now, I’ve known you long enough to know that you have been through some tricky times in the past couple of years. Looks now as if you’re truly on a Voyage that be most rewarding. I’m glad for you.
    .-= Richella´s last blog ..Christmas House Tour =-.

    Reply
  16. carolyn

    Your home is beautiful. Thank you for the inspiration – I haven’t even started decorating. I think I’ll make that felt garland today!
    .-= carolyn´s last blog ..Mittens to Match =-.

    Reply
  17. Debbie

    Hi Melissa! Wow what a beautiful tour. I loved absolutely loved your buffet display and the tree in the dining room. Great idea. How sweet your living room with Sponge Bob…hey we do live in real homes with real t.v. shows! The wise men are perfect where you have them too. I just loved all of it. This was great fun, thanks!
    Blessings,
    Debbie
    .-= Debbie´s last blog ..Miniatures & Kitchen Gingerbread tree =-.

    Reply
  18. Bobbi Jo Nichols

    Your house is so beautiful! I love your tree too! Thank you for sharing with us. The simplicity you used in decorating is breath taking. Hugs and Merry Christmas! Hugs, Bobbi Jo
    .-= Bobbi Jo Nichols ´s last blog ..Tuesday =-.

    Reply
  19. Pat

    It’s absolutely gorgeous Melissa!

    Lots of inspiration of all kinds!

    I didn’t do the stairs this year, either. In many ways we’ve scaled back and gone simpler. Our main focus has been the hearth room and breakfast room/kitchen. That’s where our family gathers. To tell you the truth, J and I have truly enjoyed the hearth room, this year. As much as we have enjoyed it, in the past, this year seems different…more comforting.

    Of course, I went glam in the dining room, though!:-)

    Merry Christmas!

    Reply
  20. Lamp Tramp

    Your new home looks so beautiful. Amazing that you just moved in! I’ve enjoyed your blog for a few years now. You inspired me to FLOCK this year on your post a while back. I got my first little flocked tree and love it.
    Merry Christmas!
    .-= Lamp Tramp´s last blog ..HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS & HOOKED ON HOLIDAY HOUSE TOURS =-.

    Reply
  21. Katie at makingthishome.com

    I really love some of the things you have done – not only with Christmas decorations but other things as well. If you ever get the chance, a post about your process in picking out items at stores and deciding what you value would be incredibly interesting. It’s all beautiful.
    Katie
    .-= Katie at makingthishome.com´s last blog ..Our Green Christmas Tree Solution =-.

    Reply
  22. Jennifer

    It all looks so good! Your home looks so cozy and warm. I like the fact that you are so laid back about decorating for Christmas. It sure makes the holidays go much smoother without the stress.
    Have a wonderful weekend!
    .-= Jennifer´s last blog ..Deck the Halls! =-.

    Reply
  23. Terrie

    Melissa – Thanks for sharing your home and reminding us that sometimes enough is enough! And it turned out beautifully. Love the felt garland – textural and different yet totally holiday.

    Terrie -YourDecoratingHotline
    .-= Terrie@YourDecoratingHotline´s last blog ..Holiday Scherenschnitte =-.

    Reply
  24. teresa

    Love it all! The bird centerpiece is my favorite. So many sweet touches. What a lovely home- filled with the Christmas spirit.
    Happy Day

    Reply
  25. The Stylish House

    Melissa,
    Your new home is adorable, and all your homemade touches are so warm and inviting. They are just perfect for its Craftsman style! Thank you for hosting this fun holiday event.
    Cathy
    .-= The Stylish House´s last blog ..Christmas Joy! =-.

    Reply
  26. Sarah from pewter+sage

    Everything looks so festive and cozy, Melissa!! Awesome job for the first year in the new place. I’m loving that felt garland with the jingle bells that you made. So sweet. Thanks for hosting us:)
    .-= Sarah from pewter+sage´s last blog ..Holiday Home Tour: Part I =-.

    Reply
  27. Shelia

    Oh, Melissa! I’m so proud for you that you’ll be able to be really home for Christmas! Your home is so warm, inviting and cozy! It’s so refreshing to see that ‘real’ folks live here. None of our homes are perfect – mine is sure not and there’s some rooms in my home I wouldn’t dare show in blogland! :) Love seeing your little son watching his shows! Your home looks so beautiful and I’m thankful for you you’re finally home!
    Be a sweetie,
    Shelia ;)
    .-= Shelia´s last blog ..My Christmas Home Tour =-.

    Reply
  28. Gina

    You’re home is beautiful-I think our trees have a bit in common, totally imperfect but special just the same.
    .-= Gina´s last blog ..What I learned from Charlie Brown =-.

    Reply
  29. pk

    Hi Melissa! The comments are working for me now, so not sure what the scoop was. As I said in the e-mail – love it! :-)
    .-= pk @ Room Remix´s last blog ..Christmas Decorating Inspiration and Ideas – 3 =-.

    Reply
  30. Rhoda

    Melissa, I love all you’ve done, simple or not, it’s all beautiful!! That mantel is just gorgeous and your tree, lovely. I too, love the simple, but can’t always make myself stop at that, but I do love to mix it all up and I have a lot I’ve collected so that’s what I use. You’ve done a marvelous job with your new house and it looks SO welcoming and warm. All those Christmas touches around the house are so pretty.

    Thanks for including my party link!! HOpe everyone will stop by and check it out, as it’s still going strong. Merry Christmas!
    .-= Rhoda @ Southern Hospitality´s last blog ..Blog Talk Radio on Friday =-.

    Reply
  31. Gayle at Mountain Moma

    I love the beauty and simplicity of your Christmas decor. And am so thankful you are settled into your home for the Christmas. May you make many wonderful memories there!
    Blessings,
    Gayle
    .-= Gayle at Mountain Moma´s last blog ..Old-Fashioned Christmas =-.

    Reply
  32. LeAnn

    Good Morning Melissa,
    You know what amazes me about you, you are so humble but yet so sure in who you are. I’m thinking that’s the love of Christ that gleams in you. You say you kept it simple, but yet I look at the photos and I think it is beautiful. I’m not about decorating over the top for Christmas. The past few years I have really tried to simplify. I was feeling like I didn’t even want to show mine because it is so not magazine worthy but who cares…right?? I just want it to be about Christ, not about decorating and gifts. Anyway, I just wanted to let you know that I think you are awesome and you inspire me daily.

    Hugs,
    LeAnn:)
    .-= LeAnn´s last blog ..I LOVE TARGET!!! =-.

    Reply
  33. Sheri

    Wow!! How beautiful!!!!
    .-= Sheri´s last blog ..Word of the Year 2009 =-.

    Reply
  34. Kim

    Your home looks just lovely! (and pretty magazine worthy to me)…I really love your centerpiece on the dinning table. Did you use cake plates of different sizes?

    Reply
  35. janice

    Thank you for the tour. Your home is elegant but welcoming and we can almost feel your pleasure and relief at being ‘home’ for Christmas pouring through the screen! My favourite photo was the glimpse of water through the beautiful wee window.

    Reply
  36. Christy

    Even paired down your decorations are lovely! I love the touches of mercury glass. Hope you have a wonderful holiday in your new home.
    .-= Christy´s last blog ..A Homemade Christmas =-.

    Reply
  37. Angela

    Melissa, your home is so cozy! I have to agree with Janice — it so feels like being home for Christmas! I love the overall feel of the greens and blues, you have put together some beautiful but simple designs. I especially love h0w you did the mantle over the fireplace. Thanks so much for the tour!

    I feel the same way as LeAnne, you really do come across as someone who knows herself and what is truly important. Your blog really does convey that. Thank you for sharing yourself!
    -Angela
    .-= Angela @ ImagineCozy´s last blog ..More Wreaths =-.

    Reply
  38. Shawn

    Thanks for all the “inspiration” your home looks beautiful!

    Reply
  39. Lisa

    Your decor has so much charm and character and I SO enjoyed every minute of seeing the photos. I’m impressed you got all settled in so nicely after just moving. Merry Christmas!
    .-= Lisa´s last blog ..Pink Feathers, Photo Ribbons, and Countdowns =-.

    Reply
  40. Bonnie Mattson

    I always forget how beautiful the ornaments look turned upside down in a candle stick. Thanks. Your home looks lovely, Melissa. I am so happy you are getting settled after the last few years. Enjoy every minute of your Christmas season!

    Hugs, Bonnie
    .-= Bonnie Mattson´s last blog ..Our Electronic Christmas Card! =-.

    Reply
  41. Lisa

    Everything looks beautiful!! I really like the simplicity of what you’ve done. And it looks cozy and elegant all at the same time. Sooo…when can I come over for hot chocolate? LOL! :)
    .-= Lisa @ Stop and Smell the Chocolates´s last blog ..Works-For-Me-Wednesday: Favorite Christmas Cookies =-.

    Reply
  42. Funky Junk Interiors

    Melissa, I am in LOVE with your style! So simplistic and calm yet drop dead inspirational.

    I have the same wreath as you do over your fireplace! I have it in my white trash bedroom! Isn’t it the coolest most rustic artifact ever?!?

    http://funkyjunkinteriors.blogspot.com/2009/11/bedroom-makeover-part-3-reveal.html

    Now, to the things I love that I just must share. I love your tall skinny natural tree. It’s so different than the fat perfect ones you see nowadays. Yours has unique character.

    I didn’t want a sideboard until I saw yours. The mix of the silver and whites is right up my alley and would look gorgeous in my own home. WANT! Bookmarked for future reference – check!

    The real greens over your outdoor rail? I’m throwing my fake stuff out. Today.

    And the bird tree thingy?!? Well, that’s simply genious. It’s like a little fantasy party for the eyes.

    And I LOVE the overloaded white stocking mantel. There are only two in my own home but I’d totally do this to my own fireplace if I had the right stuff.

    I didn’t feel much like decorating for Christmas this year because I just didn’t have the right stuff, so I just did the tree. But you’ve helped encourage me to make what I desire happen. Somehow, someway.

    Can we please extend Christmas well into January so I can get going here?!?

    And thanks for mentioning my little tree gathering at my blog. That was very cool of you. :) (can’t remember if I’ve already thanked you.. my mind is reeling)

    Donna
    .-= Funky Junk Interiors´s last blog .."Myyyy Christmas Treee…" (link yours up too!) =-.

    Reply
  43. angie

    your house is beautiful

    Reply
  44. Dianna

    I love your Christmas tree. I’m all about being simple.

    Reply
  45. Deborah

    Your new home looks stunning, not over decorated but just perfect. I especially love your felt garland.

    Reply
  46. becky

    Gorgeous! I absolutely LOVE your style. I hope there is a felt garland tutorial on the way (not so subtle hint, hint) ;) I would love to make it either this year or next! Thanks :)
    .-= becky @ our sweet peas´s last blog ..What they are capable of: =-.

    Reply
  47. Stacey

    I am so thrilled for you that you can finally feel at HOME!!! :) Your Christmas decorations look absolutely divine, I loved seeing your tour! Many blessings to you :),
    Stacey
    .-= Stacey @ The Blessed Nest´s last blog ..Pretty {Christmasy} in Pink =-.

    Reply
  48. lorrie

    I like the picture of your tree best thanks for showing us your house

    Reply
  49. Carmie

    You inspire me! What a beautiful home. I wish you and your family many happy memories within its walls!

    Reply
  50. Amber

    Okay seriously, what a dummy I am! I didn’t even notice the warning that MckLinky stripped the html out. Can you delete my link and I’ll do a new one? lol.

    Your home is absolutely lovely!! And I truly ♥ what you said about not making it perfect or trying to pretend that you are. Amen girl!
    .-= Amber´s last blog ..★ Our Home at Christmas ★ =-.

    Reply
  51. Sandy

    I’m so glad you are home – safe and sound! How wonderful for your family.

    Love the tour, wish I could come over for morning coffee!

    Love you friend!
    .-= Sandy´s last blog ..Some Traditions are the Best! =-.

    Reply
  52. Tiffany

    Melissa, your house is beautiful! Thanks for the tour and I love a simple Christmas.
    .-= Tiffany´s last blog ..Liliash Giveaway =-.

    Reply
  53. Elizabeth

    I love your original decorating ideas. I admire the simplicity, too, and your tree is to die for!
    .-= Elizabeth´s last blog ..Favorite Ornaments =-.

    Reply
  54. gina

    Lovely! isn’t it nice to be HOME for the Holidays?!! It’s our first too. :)
    .-= gina´s last blog ..clever… =-.

    Reply
  55. gina

    I really love the nature with some bling thing you have going on- my favorite is the tiered centerpiece on your dining table- it sums up your look perfectly- and is so unique- yes, your home is just lovely! >sigh< I think I may go nature with bling next year…
    .-= gina´s last blog ..Kindle and the likes… let’s discuss. =-.

    Reply
  56. Shawn/Lifeatbuttercupfarm

    LOVERLY….BEAUTIFUL….Melissa congrats on settling in! I am sure if feels wonderful to be able to call your space “home”. Thank you for providing a space for all of us to share inspiration, beauty, and ideas. Merry Christmas!
    .-= Shawn/Lifeatbuttercupfarm´s last blog ..Nine =-.

    Reply
  57. Jenny

    I love your house! It’s so beautiful!!
    We are going away for Christmas, plus I’m finishing up a course at school, so we didn’t put up ANY decorations….which feels really weird.
    Totally off topic…but…we just got a 46 inch tv…way tooooooooo big for my liking. It’s in our living room,because our tv room downstairs needs renovation. It’s driving me bonkers. All I can think about when I sit in my calm and serene living room is “forget the fireplace, the focal point is the TV!!”…grrrr…Hubby on the other hand thinks it’s “beautiful”…
    .-= Jenny´s last blog ..Gavin-Isms =-.

    Reply
  58. Jenny

    ^^^^
    I forgot to add that I was relieved that you had a similar sized tv in the family room…LOL…
    .-= Jenny´s last blog ..Gavin-Isms =-.

    Reply
  59. Jen

    Beautiful home! And congratulations on starting to become settled. I think your decorations are PERFECT! :) even though you say they are not. Everything is warm and cozy and that is excatly what Christmas decorations are meant to be!
    .-= Jen @ After The Alter´s last blog ..Yes, Virginia and Macy’s First National BELIEVE DAY! =-.

    Reply
  60. Bonnie

    What a beautiful post, Melissa. Thank you for letting us into your home. Lovely.
    .-= Bonnie @ Savoring Simplicity´s last blog ..Jingle Bell Place Settings =-.

    Reply
  61. Elizabeth

    Hi Melissa, thanks for hosting and for sharing your home tour. I hope to finish my photos this weekend, so for today I linked our bedroom.

    I have commented before on several of the photos you shared today, but it bears repeating. I L.O.V.E. your front porch entry. The wood door, the texture and detail make my heart sing. Your mantel is gorgeous, the 3 doors are so unique and interesting.

    The wool garland looks so simple and yet fun. Thanks for sharing it all.
    Elizabeth @ BlueClearSky
    .-= Elizabeth @ blue clear sky´s last blog ..Christmas Tour of Our Bedroom =-.

    Reply
  62. Elizabeth

    Oh, I forgot, I really liked your point “In fact, I hope you’ll have lots of imperfection in your holiday decorating too. That way we can all feel more hospitable and friendly and not overly impressed or overly stressed about our homes. ”
    I love seeing the ‘real’ homes and ideas of other bloggers.
    .-= Elizabeth @ blue clear sky´s last blog ..Christmas Tour of Our Bedroom =-.

    Reply
  63. Melissa Burford

    Thanks for inviting us into your home. Everything is so beautiful and I absolutely love the three wise men. Merry Christmas!
    .-= Melissa Burford´s last blog ..Holiday Home Tour =-.

    Reply
  64. Pearl Maple

    Looks like you are having fun decorating the new house for the holidays. 3 Cheers for being real with decorations, we only have so many hours in the day and they should be more about having fun!
    .-= Pearl Maple´s last blog ..Sky Watch Friday =-.

    Reply
  65. Donna

    WOW! I am so impressed. You have quickly made your new house….your new home! Your family must be so proud of you and your spirit and verve! Wonderful job!
    .-= Donna´s last blog ..A Christmas Check-list =-.

    Reply
  66. Pat

    I just love your home and the decor you’ve chosen this year. I am amazed that you have done so much and still have had the time & energy to decorate at all! LOVE the little tree in your bedroom! I have a small one in my bedroom too ~ it’s so peaceful to me to have all lights off and just the little tree lit. Thanks so much for sharing & Merry Christmas to you and yours!
    .-= Pat´s last blog ..~ Elvis & Martina McBride sing "Blue Christmas" ~ =-.

    Reply
  67. Michelle

    Melissa, thank you for hosting this fun link up!
    Your house looks wonderful! Merry Christmas!
    Michelle
    .-= Michelle @ Sweet Something´s last blog ..Holiday Tour: Christmas 2009 =-.

    Reply
  68. rue

    I’m so impressed with how much you’ve gotten done in your house in such a short time and decorated too? It looks beautiful Melissa :)

    rue
    .-= rue´s last blog ..Historic Holiday Home Tour~ part two =-.

    Reply
  69. Melody

    That jar is so gorgeous. Love how you filled it with ornaments. I have a hurricane lamp that I use for decorating.
    .-= Melody @ Party Cupcake Ideas´s last blog ..Ice Cream Sprinkle Cupcakes =-.

    Reply
  70. Erika

    I love those wise men candle holders where did you find those!!!

    Erika

    Reply
  71. Brenda Kula

    Melissa, your home looks so loved and comfortable and beautiful! I love your tree you cut down in the dark. And I like your notion that there is no reason to think we must have perfection. That is a notion, not a reality. I am soooo very happy you have your home now and don’t have to worry about that anymore. You guys have a very happy holiday!
    Brenda
    .-= Brenda Kula´s last blog ..Little Holiday Decor Tips =-.

    Reply
  72. chris glynn

    Gorgeous christmas decor! Thanks for sharing & so glad this christmas will be so special for you! :) chris
    .-= chris glynn´s last blog ..Holiday Decorating…….. =-.

    Reply
  73. Rhonda

    I am late to the party, but I’m here!!!
    Your house is lovely and I adore your tree. I always liked finding one with a lot of space to hang goodies!
    Thank you for hosting this fun event.
    Merry Christmas to you and yours!
    Rhonda
    .-= Rhonda´s last blog ..The Last Day of 12 Days of Christmas =-.

    Reply
  74. Dreams and Decor

    Wow! I love your new home and all your Christmas decorations! I especially love the wise men, the felt garland you made (I may try making one myself!), and the initial tree! You have really inspired me! Patti
    .-= Dreams and Decor´s last blog ..PEACOCK ROOM ON CHRISTMAS HOME TOUR =-.

    Reply
  75. Kelleyand

    Beautiful! You put so much effort into decorating! Also thank you for hosting a tour of homes – what an awesome way to meet new people.
    .-= Kelleyand´s last blog ..Christmas Cheer =-.

    Reply
  76. Laura Ingalls Gunn

    Oh Melissa, your home is just beautiful! I adore the felt garland and epson snow. May many wonderful Christmas memories be made within its walls.

    Our home is having an old fashioned handmade Christmas this year. I hope you will stop by.
    .-= Laura Ingalls Gunn´s last blog ..It’s beginning to look alot like Christmas…. =-.

    Reply
  77. Debbie

    Melissa, I loved seeing your home at Christmas. I had joined in with The Nester not realizing that you were also doing a tour of homes for Christmas. So I may need to modify my post and link up with you too.

    Blessings and love,
    Debbie
    .-= Debbie´s last blog ..Christmas Tour of Homes 2009 =-.

    Reply
  78. heather

    Your home is simply stunnning!! Everything is beautiful and I love your attention to detail! I am wowed!! Love it!! Merry Christmas!

    Reply
  79. TidyMom

    Melissa everything is just beautiful!! So warm and inviting!! I love your colors!!

    ~TidyMom
    .-= TidyMom´s last blog ..The Halls are Decked! =-.

    Reply
  80. patty

    your home is beaUtiful! love the white! and the fancy way the day changes to night and back… you post like me! :)
    thanks for hosting the friday linky-but i’m not sure how it works? do we link on fridays and is it of anything christmaszzy? :)
    merry!
    .-= patty´s last blog ..on the 3rd day of christmas… =-.

    Reply
    • Melissa

      Yes, every Friday you can link up any post on Christmas. Just find the post address from your blog or flickr or wherever you have your photo or post (copy the address of the specific post, not your general blog address) and put it on the McLinky post and then we can all visit and ooo and ahh over your ideas :-)

      Reply
  81. Senkyoushi

    Your home is lovely. Thanks for sharing it with me!
    .-= Senkyoushi´s last blog ..At my house… =-.

    Reply
  82. jenjen

    Thanks for hosting such a wonderful party! Your home is so beautiful! I love the white stockings and everything else too! Sorry I am a bit late linking up!

    XOOX
    Jen

    Reply
  83. Slices of Beauty

    So right Melissa, imperfection is beautiful–there is more to rejoice over than worry about!

    Lovely home, enjoy.

    Reply
  84. Karmen

    Thanks for sharing. Can I come move in with yall? Your house is amazing! I love all of your decorations and would love a how-to on the felt garland!
    .-= Karmen´s last blog ..What’s a Mom to do? =-.

    Reply
  85. Melanie

    I have to say that I love the idea of simple and imperfect. Our home is without decorations this year because of move across the country. I am enjoying visiting my favorite blogs and seeing all of the Christmas decor. Everything looks so nice in your home and I love the candlesticks.
    .-= Melanie´s last blog ..Jungle Jim’s =-.

    Reply
  86. Laryssa

    You have such lovely style! I used your idea of Epsom salts to make icy looking candles. Paint on the glue, roll in Epsom salts and glitter. Instant snow!

    Thanks for showing us around. Come by and visit me anytime. Merry Christmas!
    .-= Laryssa @ Heaven In The Home´s last blog ..Christmas Tour of Homes 2009! =-.

    Reply
  87. Cherry Blossom

    Oh. mY . goodness that center piece is stunning!!! Thanks for showing us around! I am stopping in from Nester’s place. To see my tour click on the ‘Christmas 2009’ tag on the left sidebar of my blog.Thanks for showing us around! I am stopping in from Nester’s place. To see my tour click on the ‘Christmas 2009’ tag on the left sidebar of my blog.

    Reply
  88. jennifer

    I love your fresh, simple, inviting looks. Very warm and welcoming.

    Reply
  89. Sarah Holiday

    Your house looks beautiful!! I love the snowflake garland on the hutch and the blue birdcage!!

    Reply
  90. Supriya

    Dear Melissa,
    Thanks thanks thanks, i simply love ur blog especially all that you have written and shown about real life and authentic living. I was going crazy managing work, creating a magazine coverish house, managing a 2 year old, phew, until help arrived from ur blog!Thanks a million, i am from India and i am ur fan forever!Thanks again!

    Reply
  91. sabrina

    Is your home a craftsman style? It is gorgeous those windows are to die for. Your color of paint is beautiful with the pop of white everywhere love it!

    Reply
  92. Patty

    Melissa,

    Your home is beautiful. I love your style! We have very similar taste.

    Thank you for sharing :)

    Patty at momsponge.com

    Reply

Trackbacks/Pingbacks

  1. Some Traditions are the Best! - [...] also linking up today over at The Inspired Room where my friend Melissa is giving us her house tour!…
  2. Inspired, Wonderful & Most Fabulous Christmas Homes - [...] you missed it, here is the link to my own home tour and hundreds of others holiday homes &…

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