Inspired

A month or so ago, bottlebrush trees showed up on my radar. Gina of Desperately Seeking Gina showed us how to create colorful ones in a post. Next, I noticed a group of vintage trees on the cover of Martha Steward Living at Winn Dixie. I bought it. Then Talya at Grace Grits and Garden showed us how she used some of her beauties to decorate this year.

Although I have lots of little trees, I didn’t own one bottlebrush tree at that time. But I knew how to remedy that. I’d keep an eye out while I did my Christmas shopping.

Look at what I found.

Those mini trees above were in that bargain section by the front door at Target. Just $3. Wouldn’t they be cute on place cards, packages, or in a miniature village?

I also ran across these pretty plates and napkins there.

This trio of dark green trees came from Marshalls—or was it Home Goods? Anyway, they’re my favorites.

Later, I found this bright 40%-off bargain when I stopped in CVS.

Decorating Fun

This is how I incorporated these little treasures in my decorations.

For Unto Us a Child Is Born

Although I love my little trees and Santas, I find my greatest pleasure in setting up the nativities I’ve collected over the years. They run from folksy and fun to fine and fragile. Here are just a few.

Getting Personal

Each year, I understand the importance of the birth of Jesus Christ a little bit more.  His coming into our world changed the course of history. Unimpressed with success and wealth, He reached out to the poor, sick, and disenfranchised. He elevated the status of women.

As Emmanuel–God with us–Jesus did for us what we could not do for ourselves. He became our link to God the Father and showed us His true nature.

May you have a Blessed Christmas and

Walk into a New Year filled with God’s Blessings!

For God so loved the world, He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever

believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

John 3:16