Tuesday, December 21, 2010

JOYEUX NOEL

I want to thank everyone, from the bottom of my heart, who sent their warm condolences to me after the passing of my father. It has been a truly long week and although I feel a little numb, I still have the drive to make this a very Merry Christmas for my family. I had planned to downsize the decorating a bit this year anyway and that pretty much happened on it's own. Still, I'm pleased with how everything turned out.
This old pitcher started out with one branch filled with pine cones and berries. Soon I was stuffing it with anything festive that came along and needed a home. It sits on a runner that I made last year out of drop cloth and fabric paint.
Our tree is weighed down with ornaments {The Husband did a great job picking out a perfect one at Home Depot, don't you think?}. I have to confess, I didn't decorate the back of the tree and only used about half of my ornaments. I also need to fiddle with my mantel a bit more...I took a nap after the funeral yesterday and when I woke up, Emily had cleaned the house and had packed away the rest of the decorations and all the boxes. So I need to scoot downstairs and see what I can come up with.
During some downtime, I read a few blogs and stayed in touch just by skimming over some of the pretty holiday decorations. It was much better than reading or looking at any magazine. The inspiration is just incredible. And I am amazed by the talent so many of you women have.
These little guys are new this year...I couldn't pass them up. The wind around just about anything with their arms and legs. My chairs are perfect for this. They really make me smile.
Our holiday celebrations begin on the 23rd, when family comes in from out of town. This is when I will be needing all of the baking that I was supposed to be doing. And I have presents trickling in that I ordered online and I need to play catch up with the wrapping. These things don't feel like chores, if anything I have felt the need to grab the horse by the tail. These are special times and special days and we need to feel the love all around us as we prepare for this blessed day.

I have left out some things I wanted to show all of you because of the poor quality of lighting in my house today {we had tons of snow last night}. I hope to post that before Saturday. And I have received some wonderful gifts in the mail that I want to share, so I'll be back soon. Happy Holidays! :-)

92 comments:

www.MaisonStGermain.com said...

Happy to see you posted so I didn't have to worry:) Blogging is such good therapy isn't it. I love the way your home is decorated! Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.
~Debra XXX
Capers of the vintage vixens

Karen thisoldhouse2.com said...

:-) It's all beautiful - thinking of you and your family - hoping you have a peaceful holiday.

Brenda Pruitt said...

You just take it easy now, and rest yourself some. I love those little fellers with their skinny arms and legs. So cute! Enjoy the holiday, Jane, and your family. The chores will get done.
Brenda

Julie Marie said...

Hello Jane... you have been in my thoughts every day... you are a very strong lady, and keeping busy helps alot I am sure... your tree is absolutely beautiful and how sweet of your family to help with all of it... you truly are one special lady, making sure everyone in your family still has a beautiful holiday...much love and comforting thoughts to you... xoxo Julie Marie

Olive said...

Wonderful that you feel up to posting Jane. So glad your Santa makes you smile and you are finding the joy in the season still. Wishing for you the restful and peaceful time you need with family and friends. Happy Christmas♥ Hugs, Olive

Shellbelle said...

Oh Jane, you are doing just what your father would have wanted, creating happy holiday memories for his loved ones. I know he would be so proud of you.

Your home looks so inviting and I agree, those wrap-around Santas are adorable.

Denise said...

I missed your previous post Jane, but I am so sorry for your loss. My heartfelt condolences to you and your family. You are in my prayers.

The Charm of Home said...

I put all of my ornaments on the front of my tree also and the other night we are looking at it from the couch wondering why it is leaning??LOL Duh! So glad to hear from you! Take care my friend and hugs to you!
Sherry

Rachel Noelle Pallas said...

~*~*~*Merry Christmas to you and your beautiful family!!~*~Hugs,Rachel

*French Farmhouse 425*

Theresa said...

Bless your heart dear Jane! I know exactly how you feel, I felt empty inside after losing my precious Daddy! It feels good to get into something that takes your mind off of everything just a bit... decorating and wrapping can help! Have a blessed day my friend and know that I am praying for you and your family! HUGS!

My Grama's Soul said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
My Grama's Soul said...

Hello again....left some words out of my first comment....anyway...so glad you are back with us again...I hope your wounded heart is healing a "little".

Your home is beautifully decorated for this most special of holidays...I know your gentle father will be with you in your heart this holiday and all those to come.

Blessings gentle lady,

Jo

Penny from Enjoying The Simple Things said...

So good to see your post. I know exactly what you are going through and I am glad to see you are getting through this, step by step. It is good to have normal activities to help heal. I am wishing you a sweet Christmas...
Hugs
Penny

Cindy (Applestone Cottage) said...

Hi Jane,
I have been so thinking of you my friend.
I know it's been a tough time for you and I am so amazed by your spirit!
Your home looks lovely and it sounds like you have a very thoughtful daughter helping you too!
I am going to e-mail you a picture of Addison wearing one of the outfits you bought her. I think it will make you smile.
Big Hugs,
Cindy

Heartfelt living said...

Hello Sweet Friend,
I'm am so sorry I missed your post about your dear Father. My heart is breaking for you and your family. I will keep you all in my prayers.
Your home looks lovely and cheerful and I'm so happy to hear that you will be with Family this Holiday.
Blessing to you all.
xx
Karen

Anonymous said...

Dear Jane
I am so saddened to hear about your father. Please know that my thoughts are prayers are with you. Merry Christmas to you and your family
God's peace be with you
Sue

GLENDA CHILDERS said...

I am so sorry to hear of the death of your father. I remember the first Christmas after I lost my mom, how hard it was. You are in my thoughts and prayers as you continue your celebration of such a wonderful season.

Fondly,
Glenda

The Decorative Dreamer said...

It is good to see and hear your family is gathering around you and helping out. Your long legged wrapping Santas are sooo cute, and yes your husband did a great job picking out that tree. I am happy to know you are surrounded by such love. Continued prayers being sent for you and your family. Merry Christmas!

Deanna said...

Hi dear..thinking of you.

Deanna

The Single Nester said...

I am so sorry to hear about the passing of your dad. Many years ago, I lost my mom a week before Christmas and I know what you are going through. In addition, I lost my brother in April. Awaiting January 1!!

Penny said...

Happy Holidays Jane! So glad you are looking forward to Christmas. You will remain in my thoughts because I know how bittersweet this time can be. Take care of yourself.

La said...

I so love that style of pitcher. They catch my every time. Your whimsical little Santas on the chairs backs are adorable.

Merry Christmas, Sweetie. La

Pondside said...

Hi Jane - your decorations are so pretty! I'm glad that everyone will be at home for Christmas - so good to be surrounded by family.

Leigh of Tales from Bloggeritaville said...

Jane, I have been out of the loop for awhile and I apologize. I didnt know abotu your father. I am so very sorry for your loss. You are in my prayers. I am so very blessed to call you a friend through blogging!!! I am so grateful for that. Thank you Merry Christmas!!!

Donna said...

You house looks so wonderful for Christmas! It feels good to get things done and try to feel more like normal yet I know your heart thinks of your dad with each ornament that goes up. Many hugs....Donna

Robin@DecoratingTennisGirl said...

Janie,
Your house looks wonderful and merry. So happy to hear from you and have you back.
Thinking of you and sending warm holiday wishes for a Merry Christmas.
Love,
Robin

xinex said...

Your Christmas decorations are so pretty and the tree has a perfect shape. Good job picking it, Al! I love your climbing santas on the chairs, so much fun. I am so glad you decorated and posted, Janie. I know it is not easy but I love your attitude. Take care! Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you and your family!..Christine...Christine

Happy To Be/ Gl♥ria said...

Dear Jane...Many CHRISTmas Blessings to you my Dear friend...I have you in my prayers girl...from my mountain to yours Hugs and smiles Gl♥ria

Lori E said...

Good to see you back. I think you will make it a very merry Christmas for your family. I think it comes naturally to you.

Charlene said...

So glad to see your spirits are so sweet & good. You are a stong beautiful soul my sweet friend. Enjoy this beautiful time of the year & let it wrap it's arms around you. Your decorations are wonderful & those Santa's on the chairs made me smile too. Sending you BIG hugs my friend. Merry Christmas. Charlene

Lou Cinda @ Tattered Hydrangeas said...

I popped over to check on you and was so glad to see your post...I know how difficult this has been for you but everything looks just beautiful and ready for Christmas! Being with family is the best thing right now and especially at Christmas!

Keeping you close in my heart and prayers...

Lou Cinda

Melanie said...

I am so sorry to hear about your dad. I have been behind in my blog reading and so I didn't know that this had happened.

Sending you prays during Christmas.

Yvonne @ StoneGable said...

Jane, I am so very sorry to hear of the passing of your Father. God bless all of you!
I lost my Dad at Christmas time several years ago. It is not easy. But now, I have such sweet memories. I hope you will to.
I am praying for you and your family.
Yvonne

Lori said...

So glad to see you Jane ~ I know how very difficult this week-end will be ~ know that I will be thinking of you and the angel that will be looking down upon you as you are surrounded by your loved ones. I wish I had some words of wisdom or comfort but I have been there so I will just send you a long distance hug. xo

Elaine said...

Glad to see you back to blogging after a very difficult week I am sure.

Cheery decorations! Love the tree and the new Santas. Enjoy your time with your family.

Karie said...

I was surprised to see that you had posted when I checked. But so glad you did. I hope you are doing ok. May angels watch over you at this time. Please do have a very Merry Christmas. Your home looks beautiful.

Dreaming of Vintage said...

Jane, I'm so sorry about your father, I lost my mom a month ago and it's been really hard. I almost didn't decorate for Christmas, but I know my mom would have been mad, since she LOVED Christmas and the decorating. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family and I hope you and your family have a nice Christmas.
Hugs,
Kelly

Linda@Coastal Charm said...

Love your old pitcher...just my style! Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas and I will be sure to keep all of you in my prayers.

Blessings,
Linda

Linda (Nina's Nest) said...

Jane, I am so sorry about your dad. Somehow I missed that this week. May God give you His comfort and peace. I hope this Christmas will be a very meaningful one for you and your family. Linda

Rebecca said...

Oh sweetie, I just saw your post about your Dad. Please know that you and your family are being lifted in prayer. May the Lord wrap His loving arms around you and comfort you at this time. Your decorations are just lovely. Rest, reflect, and revisit those happy times with your Dad! May God bless you, sweetie.
Hugs and Prayers,
Rebecca

Rettabug said...

I'm so sorry I didn't know about your Father's passing, Jane! I know this will be a difficult holiday without him but he will always be there in your heart.
May you find comfort & Peace knowing he is in a better place.

Hugs to you, my sweet friend. Try to enjoy Christmas with your family around you for support & love.

fondly,
Rett

p.s. I think your decorations are darling!

Julie@beingRUBY said...

Hi Jane
so sorry to hear the sad news about your father... this must be a difficult time for you..

I apologize for my absences .. my internet is being it's usual pain!!.. But want to wish you a safe and happy Christmas and thank you for your friendship and kindness this year... ciao xxx Julie

Michelle, All Home and Love said...

I'll be keeping your family in my thoughts and prayers, I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. You are doing a wonderful job at keeping the holiday festive for your family, the decorations look great.

I hope you are remembering to rest when you need to. Your head and heart will need a break here and there, even if just to sit for 10 minutes.
Thinking of you!
~Michelle

Paula@SweetPea said...

I am glad to see you posting. I read the post about your dad when I was traveling and just now realized that I didn't tell you how sorry I am.

Crystal Rose Cottage said...

It is never easy to lose a loved one any time of year but at the holidays it would seem much harder. It looks like you are doing a wonderful job of celebrating the special things in your life! You are in my thoughts for a Merry Christmas, Jane. ~Hugs, Patti

Auntie sezzzzzz... said...

Dear One, I've been thinking about you. And not knowing if it's wise to make a comment, on your last post, saying that. Or send an email. But emails can pile up and over-take people, at such a time. -sigh-

But thankfully, you have posted! And I can say here, that I have been thinking of you, my Dear. And that I'm so happy that you are getting into Christmas, as it will be good for you, and for your family.

Gentle Christmas hugs...

Tamerie Shriver Halliday said...

HI Jane

I have been very remise of late with blog reading and even posting very often. I am soooo sorry to hear about your father. I am sending you love and warm wishes for your healing. He may be physically gone, but he'll be with you forever.

Merry Christmas to you and your family and I wish for you love. peace and joy in the coming New Year!

Hugs,
Tamerie

Wsprsweetly Of Cottages said...

Dearest Jane..I am just checking in to give you my love, support...and I can see that a lot of us feel the same way...just want to send comfort you somehow.
Especially your poor dear mother.
She must be lost at this time.
Many hugs...
Mona

Heaven's Walk said...

Oh Janie.....I didn't know about your father's passing. I'm so very sorry! I must'ave missed some posts of yours. Please know that I will be lifting you up in prayer tonight that you will find peace and comfort this holiday season. And I will also say a special prayer for your sweet mother, too... ♥

All my love, sweetie -

xoxo laurie

Pam - @diy Design Fanatic said...

Jane, your home looks wonderful! I am so sorry to hear about your father.

Ceekay-THINKIN of HOME said...

Merry Christmas....glad you are trying to find some enjoyment in the holiday. You are in my thoughts!

Susan EvelynAndRose said...

Hello Jane,
It's good to see a post of yours.
I said some prayers for your family this week. I wish you a Christmas full of joyful memories, new and old. Take care, rest and enjoy any bit of Christmas decor that makes you smile. :)
- Susan

Kathleen said...

Jane, I just saw your dad passed, I am so sorry. Prayers for all of you!
My dad passed when he was 50 on Dec 21st and was buried on Cmas Eve when I was a teen. I will never forget it.
May God give you extra strength to get through the holidays, dad would want you to make Christmas merry for your family.
I know your heart aches!

Jane said...

Hi Jane,
I know this will be a holiday filled with both joy and some sadness. May you and your family enjoy the blessings of the holiday season. Your decorations look lovely!
Jane

Carolyn said...

Oh Jane, I am so sorry for your loss!! Oh how hard it is to say good-bye to our loved ones and how difficult it is function and do just everyday normal things. I remember once hearing a wonderful speaker say though the best thing to do is just "Do the Next Thing"...as simple as that sounds it worked when I lost my father 16 yrs ago...all I wanted to do was cry. It is so good to hear that you are hanging in there and your daughter sounds like a special little gal!! God bless you, Jane, and I pray you will have a wonderful Christmas!! Don't worry about the cleaning...honestly, the only one who really notices is the hostess...so relax and enjoy the holiday with your sweet family! Merry Christmas, my sweet friend!!

Love and Hugs to you!!
Carolyn ~ Cottage Sunshine

FRENCH LAUNDRY said...

Jane, so sorry to hear about your father. I lost my sweet dad almost 5 years ago, so I can certainly empathize. Wishing you and yours a lovely Christmas.

Hugs,
Judy

Suzann said...

Merry Christmas to you sweet Lady.
Your decorations look beautiful.

Renee {Shabby, Chic and Charming} said...

So sorry for your loss. I lost my mother on this day in 1996 and though it gets easier, I miss her so.

Love your decor. Have a blessed Christmas.

Helena - A Diary of Lovely said...

I always enjoy seeing what you do in your home, so pretty and homey!
Happy Holidays xoxo

Rebecca Nelson said...

Blessings to you JanieGirl. My deepest sympathies again in the passing of your daddy.

Merry Christmas to you and your hubbo. I hope you love the Sachet you won...

Blessings to you with love~

Rebecca

June said...

Jane I am so sorry about you losing your dear father. I wish I could hug you right now. I hope you can feel the one I have in my heart.
Your home looks so lovely all decorated for Christmas.
Sending your whole family Christmas Wishes!
love to you...

Gracefully Vintage said...

Love that Banner sign so darn cute..
HAVE a Very Merry Christmas..
Karryann

René said...

Jane, I am so sorry to hear about your father. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

-Rene

Pamela said...

Merry Christmas Jane!!
Blessings for the New Year...
Pamela xo

Tracie~MyPetiteMaison said...

Hi Janie,
Your tree is beautiful.

I've been away ill, I'm so sorry to hear about your dad. I will keep you in my heart. I know.

Love & prayers to you.
xo~Tracie

Jacqueline said...

I am so sorry to hear about your loss. Do only what you want to do, everyone will understand and take care of yourself too. I have lost both of my parents at a fairly young age and it takes some time. My thoughts are with you during this Christmas.

Susan Freeman said...

Dear Jane, I just read the news of your father's passing. I know how you feel since losing my own father this year. My heart goes out to you. I sending you Christmas Blessings.

Much love,
Susan and Bentley
xxoo

Kathy @ Creative Home Expressions said...

I am so sorry to read of your father's passing, Jane! My heart and prayers go out to you and I'd give you a hug if possible. I appreciate your most recent comments {on my guest post at Beth's blog, too} even more knowing that you take the time to be so thoughtful even though you are grieving.

Anita Diaz said...

Hi Jane!! I'm sure this will be missing your father especially now. You will be in our prayers and thoughts! ALl your decor is just perfect! Thanks for stopping by, and Merry Christmas:-)

Rubyred said...

So very sorry to hear your sad news Jane.
I know Christmas won't be the same for you but I do hope that you will have a peaceful and restful time with happy memories of your dad.
Sending you a big hug!
Rachel x

Anonymous said...

Thinking of you, Jane, and sending hugs this Christmas!

Sarah said...

Jane, I know it will be a Christmas filled with bittersweet emotion. I'm keeping you in my thoughts and prayers. I'm thankful that our paths have crossed through our blogs and want you to know I appreciate your friendship.
Christmas hugs ~ Sarah

Kathleen Grace said...

Oh Jane! I am so sorry about your father. I was just catching up and saw the post. My deepest condolences. I will keep you and your family in my prayers. I hope the peace of CHristmas is yours this year.

Love
Kathy

The Quintessential Magpie said...

Oh, Janie! I am just going online after a long hiatus (and am sick now) to read about your father. I'm so very, very sorry. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers. My heart goes out to you, sweet friend.

Sending you tender wishes and all the best at Christmas and throughout the new year to come.

I love you...

XO,

Sheila

Teresa@1800 Farmhouse Rd said...

Hi there, I see you around on other blogs quite often so I thought I would come over and meet you. I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I hope you have peace and blessings this holiday season. Look forward to getting to know you better after the holidays.

Julie Marie said...

Merry Christmas to you and your family dear Jane... xoxo Julie Marie

Laura said...

Dear Jane-
I am so sorry for your loss.
I will be praying for you and your family.

Merry Christmas,
Laura

Teresa @ Grammy Girlfriend said...

Have had so little blog time...so sorry for your loss....Glad to catch up on your blog and your tree looks great...
Blessings for 2011...
Teresa

Bonnie said...

Hi Jane, your home always looks so beautiful. I love your Christmas tree!

xoxo, Bonnie

Sonny G said...

Your home looks very festive Jane and so pretty..
Thinking of you and sending you warm hugs on this holiday..
I wish you peace..
Sonny

Anonymous said...

Wishing you & yours a Merry Christmas, Jane!
Hugs,
Zuzu

Debbiedoos said...

Hi Jane...I am wishing you the best day you can make it. Thinking of you and your family today, and wishing you all a very Merry Christmas. Your home does look very warm and festive....I just love that little hanging Santa!~ Debbie XXX000

Lori said...

I'm so sorry for your loss. I hope you will have a Merry Christmas and you and your family are in my thoughts.
xoxoxo

Daydream Living said...

Dear Jane,
I'm glad you can find some joy in these difficult times for you and your family. All the best and I'm glad we met in Blogland,
hugs, Maureen xx

jmac said...

so sorry about your father....I am just now catching up on my blog reading. Hoping you're ok and that your strength stays strong. Sending you positive mojo.....rest and reflect for the rest of your holiday season.....

Sissie's Shabby Cottage said...

Hi Jane,
I'm so glad that you had a chance to put up all of your lovely Christmas decor. Everything looks so lovely. I love those little elves too, they are so cute.

I'll keep you in my thoughts and prayers, sweet girl.

hugs
Sissie

Mid-Atlantic Martha said...

Love your cute little clinging elves. I was certainly sorry to see the post about your dad's passing. So especially difficult during the holiday season. I hope that you do have some joyfilled moments for Christmas and New Year --enjoy them. Hug your sweet family tight and lean on their love to get you through the dark moments. Sending hugs!

savvycityfarmer said...

JANE,
you are one very strong woman.
I really do feel like I know you.

Your Dad sounds like a wonderful man ... carry his memory with you every day.

We can talk anytime!
let's have lunch.

Laura @ 52 FLEA said...

Hi Jane,
So sorry to hear of your Dad's passing. I will keep you and your family in my prayers. Take care, Laura

Beth said...

Jane, I am so very sorry on the loss of your father. I know first hand all too well the pain you must be feeling. Praying for you and your family during this time!

Jeanne Henriques said...

Jane..hoping you had a beautiful Christmas, you so deserve it!!!

Best wishes for a Happy New Year, may it be Merry and Bright xx

Jeanne xxx

Country Wings in Phoenix said...

Hi Jane Sweetie...
You are such a strong lady. I know this has been a hard Christmas for you, but you kept busy and plowed right on through. Everything looks so festive sweetie. How wonderful that the family all pulled together and made it a nice day for you. Baby steps Jane, one day at a time.

I love the little skinny Santas with the arms and legs for wrapping. How beautiful they look on your chair. That table covering you made, is beautiful. I never thought of using a drop cloth with a little paint. It would be perfect for the tables, especially when something gets spilled and won't come out, I could just pain over that the next year. I love it sweet one, and thank you for the lovely idea.

Jane sweetie, your Dad would be so happy that you went ahead with the holidays, I know he would have wanted that for you. Many hugs to you sweet one.

I will be sending prayers up for you sweetie, as you travel this difficult road. May the New Year bring happiness to you and shine a new light for the road you are traveling.

All my love Jane Sweetie, Sherry