What, No Tree?

Time for Christmas decorations!  I don't have room for a tree upstairs (not unless I limit the number of dinner guests), so my tree goes downstairs.  Actually, my tree won't be out this year until Wendy tells me she and her family are on the way to Utah for a visit.  Jake's schedule is unpredictable, so I don't want to decorate downstairs unless house guests come.

This post is mainly for my mother who, after asking about descriptive details of my holiday decor, still wants to see the pictures.  Since decorating does not come easily to me, I refer to past pictures, make some slight adjustments, and don't think about what goes where.

My favorite nativity scene.  I don't recall reading about any of the wise men riding into Palestine on an elephant, but I still like the representation.

Millie Cheesman commissioned an artist to create this scene emphasizing Joseph's profound love for Mary.

Another favorite nativity scene.  Paul wants me to cut off the angel's wings, but I like the representation.

 Did I overdo on creche displays?

Tracy gave me the idea of decorating these archways with cranberry garland.

The first year, one came crashing down, but Paul found a way to secure them.

I can never remember where all of this stuff goes on the bookcase.  Hence, reference the photo.

There is a new candle in the centerpiece since Paul decided to light it last year.  Fortunately, I extinguished it before the whole thing melted.  Display only.

The entry is a little light on decor because we have to move things quickly when accommodating a large crowd to set up the table after guests arrive.

The plastic base of this little tree began to split.  Paul drilled many tiny holes on each side of the split, and I laced it up with green wire.  

Way to go, Paul!  It looks great.

It's a little light on decorations in the library, but I include a few since guests dine there at a large party.

Of course, I have some "deer" friends.

Quaint village in the snow.

This church and vintage cars belonged to my dad.

I don't have too many Santa things upstairs, but here are a couple.

Snowballs and candles may not be the best mix.

I couldn't resist a touch of wildlife on the staircase.

Some creative types like to mix it up year after year.  For me, I stick with the same basics for a long time.   Maybe too long.  Years ago, I remember my kids complaining that a Santa decoration looked pretty run down.  I made a quick calculation and figured it was more than 50 years old!  No wonder there was no more flocking on the Santa suit.  I was time to clean house when my son put a green light bulb inside that gave Santa a sickly hue.