Christmas Florida Style – Special Holiday Decor Feature

We have been really enjoying the season and trying not to stress over the little things.

In the past, we had a big Christmas party at the beginning of December. This made for a lot of stress designing and sending out invitations, getting the house ready, deciding on a menu, preparing the hors d’oeuvres, setting up the bar, selecting music and a signature cocktail, hiring some extra help, etc. Well, things have changed a lot in the last few years.

We have experienced some personal and family challenges recently and have decided to simplify things a bit. After losing our Mom early this year after a long battle with lung cancer, this confirmed that the most valuable things in life involve spending time with loved ones.

This year, our Dad relocated to Florida and is living on his own for the first time ever. He is 90 years old, and we have been focused on getting him settled in his apartment and feeling comfortable in his surroundings. I think Dad is pleased with his new place and has a good routine. He is even using the gym and getting some exercise a few days a week.

I guess getting Dad settled is why we are a bit behind on getting our decorations and Christmas tree in place. It has been so therapeutic to not stress over things and to just take things one day at a time, and enjoy some time together.

So, FINALLY, we are ready to share our special Christmas “look.” The theme for the tree this year is Southern Hospitality combining magnolias, pearls, and reflective items. Then, we incorporated some tartan items in the living room and dining room. What says “southern” better than magnolias and pearls? And, with my Scottish heritage, I just cannot resist adding some tartan into the mix.

Also, with our new blue and white color scheme in the family room, we changed things up a bit to include a red and white plaid pillow, a needlepoint pillow with Santa and a variety of colors and of course a poinsettia. The tree features mostly white or neutral ornaments and touches of gold.

Hopefully, this post will provide you with some inspiration and help you to “regroup” and determine if you are focused on the most important things in life. Spend some quality time with friends and family and just enjoy the simple pleasures.

AND HERE IS OUR TREE…I love the way the light reflects on the pearls and the magnolias add a “pop” of white against the tree branches.