I have done a bit of rearranging and decorating for the holidays, and I must say, it feels sooooo good!  For the past few years I have honestly not felt very festive at all.  Could hardly get myself into the holiday spirit and felt a bit of depression around it.  I will say it has been a struggle to not have my parents around during this time of year (or anytime of year for that matter).  I always can't help but think about having christmas morning at my mom's house, and how excited she would get about it.  My dad hated christmas, and I loved that about him.  And having my brother there with all of us was always so special.  But I will say... I am starting to feel the spirit return, and we still have a few weeks until christmas!!!  I cannot wait to get my tree decorated.  I don't have the lights I want for it, so I'm having to wait until we can get to town to get some.  But I'm counting down the days!  I have been listening to the Bright Eyes christmas cd for days now.  And this little bit of redecorating I have done has made all the difference.  I moved my table out from the corner and decluttered it from all of the random little pieces of nature I had all over it.  I wanted to be able to actually eat at the table, maybe make a few crafts at it, and simply just enjoy the openess that comes from less clutter.  And as you can see from the photos, Bella agrees and instantly found herself a little spot to look out the window from. 

I am so in love with my holiday decor this year.  It's simple, natural and inviting.  It has brightened my mood and calmed my spirit.  What else could I ask for?  I added the old vase full of mountain laurel seeds not only for a hint of holiday color, but b/c they represent my mother.  It is what she leaves behind for us, so when I hold one, I feel close to her.  It feels good to have her spirit in the center of my decor.