Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree
Putting up our Christmas tree always completes our holiday décor and theme. It’s fun to put on some traditional Christmas music and get started on the trimming process.

Every year, we try to change up the decorations a little to make the tree unique. This year, we added some more casual items, including some burlap and more rustic ornaments. I found some charming decorations at TJ Maxx, with BELIEVE, MERRY, and JINGLE on them. They are made of slices of wood and the bright white background really “pops” against the other colors on the tree. Also, I found some really fun ornaments at Neiman Marcus. These are a bit “cheeky”. One says, “I’m filled with the holiday spirit, it’s called wine”, and one with “The tree isn’t the only thing getting lit this year”. How fun!
https://tjmaxx.tjx.com, https://www.ballarddesigns.com
Also, the Ballard Designs Outlet had some great twig ornaments with red ribbons that added to the rustic feel that I was trying to accomplish. Everything at the outlet is 40% – 50% off the regular price. I imagine that after the Christmas season, there will be some even better deals. Love that place!
This tree was selected from a huge variety at Home Depot. Since I got there fairly early in the season, there were so many good trees to choose from. They are so helpful there and untie several trees to help you find just the right one. They even load and secure the tree to the top of your car.
I love the scent, and this tree is very fresh. You can tell by the flexibility of the branches. Also, there are hardly any needles dropping – no mess. Evidently, Home Depot gets their trees from North Carolina. This tree was a bit more expensive than in the past, but I think it has a great shape and it fits perfectly into our family room corner.
In the past, we always put our tree in the living room by the French doors. Last year, we decided to put the tree in the family room where we spend most of our time. We love the soft light in the evenings when we are enjoying some wine and watching TV.

Another great way to enjoy the wonderful pine scent is to go to Home Depot and pick up some of the discarded branches that they cut off of the bottom of the trees. They are free and can add a lot to your Christmas decorating. I drape the branches over cabinets; place them in the backyard by my chaise and anywhere that I want a little touch of pine and greenery.
I know that many people have beautiful faux trees and adding the fresh pine scent, makes your home smell like you have a fresh tree.
So, are you finished with your gift shopping? I just finished yesterday and will be wrapping and shipping most of today. It is such a great feeling to get all of the shopping done before the crowds get crazy. Now, all there is to do is enjoy the season and time with family and friends.
Tomorrow, I continue with one of my favorite traditions. A few girlfriends and I drive up to Palm Beach and enjoy the festive decorations on Worth Avenue. We have a delicious lunch at Renato’s in the beautiful courtyard (including champs or a nice bottle of wine).
https://www.renatospalmbeach.com

The atmosphere in Palm Beach is just so gorgeous, and we work off lunch with a little shopping in town. This has been a tradition for many years and has evolved in to the perfect getaway. Many years ago, we went to The Breakers for high tea. That was definitely special, but sitting outside and enjoying lobster salad and a nice crisp beverage cannot be beat!
I will post some pictures of our excursion very soon. Take time to enjoy the season! Cheers!
Kimberley, your tree is beautiful.