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At The Picket Fence with Vanessa Hunt

Where Ideas for your Home Meet Inspiration for your Heart

  • Book
  • Speaking
  • Meet Vanessa
    • Featured

December 9, 2011

Blogger Block Party~Doors and Porches!

Joyeux Noel! 
Merry Christmas! 
And, welcome to the next stop on the Block…the Blogger Block that is!

This is one amazing event and I’m so thrilled today to be hosting today’s

Doors and Porches Linky Party!

Just as a warm smile can be a reflection of your heart, our front doors and porches give us an opportunity to reflect the warmth we strive to create in our homes.
And, this is never more true than at Christmas.

So, imagine me smiling warmly at you right now as I share my “Joyful Christmas Porch“!


This porch was created with a small budget, very simple projects and some lucky finds!

I recalled last year seeing how Delores from Vignette Design (truly an amazingly talented lady!) had dressed up her fresh wreath with a jute webbing banner and I that I wanted to do the same thing.
Yep…I’m just that nuts that I remember someone’s Christmas decor from last year!

Every year I purchase a fresh wreath and garland from Costco but this is the first time I have added anything to the wreath. Stenciled letters on Jute Webbing is such an easy, inexpensive and simple way to dress it up!

I seriously cannot tell you how much fun I had decorating my porch this year!
You talented folks in blogland have seriously inspired me and given me the courage to try new things and yes…even get a little bit crafty now and then. 
Can you feel the “JOY”? 
Well, my porch sure did when I added these letters to my outdoor planters.
I purchased the small arborvitae for $3.99 each at Lowes and used pots I already had on hand.
Painting the wooden letters a bright red gave the porch a nice pop of color and I simply attached a piece of twine to the back of each letter using a staple gun and then tied them around each plant.

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These large glass jars were first outfitted with flickering LED candles which were then stuck to the bottom using “Stick-Um”, my go-to tool this time of year.

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Then, each jar was filled with glittery faux snow and tucked inside a berry and evergreen candle ring.

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I really wanted Christmas pillows for my chairs but just couldn’t bring myself to spend the money on the ones I found in the stores. When I spotted a set of linen kitchen towels for $4.99 each I knew they would do the trick! I simply folded them in half and used Liquid Stitch to “sew” the sides and stuffed them right up.
I seriously LOVE how they turned out and love the price even more!

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Ok…now for the part that turned me into a cheesy grinning fool at a thrift store.
I found this darling little sled at the Rescue Mission for $8 and
seriously couldn’t believe it when I saw it.
Plus, I didn’t even have to elbow anyone out of the way to snatch it up!

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A simple potted tree sits on top.

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Love the details and patina!

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In front of the sled I placed a lantern with wintery goodies tucked inside along with a strand of battery operated white lights.

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I thought I was all done until I suddenly got inspired to create my own Christmas Doormat!
I picked up a $6 mat from Wal-Mart and after stenciling little fleur-de-lis in each corner I freehand (yes…freehand folks!) painted NOEL in the same bold red as my JOY Letters.
If you only knew how bad my handwriting actually is, you would appreciate this even more!

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All in all, I am so pleased with how my Front Door and Porch turned out this year.

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I only wish I could fling that door right open for all of you and welcome you into my home the way you have all welcomed us into your lives! 
Thank you so much for letting me share this with you today! 
And now, how about some….
GIVEAWAYS!!!

Hold onto your hats folks, because we won’t just have one winner here at the Doors and Porches Party…nope….we will have FOUR! That’s right!

Four fabulous items from four of our fabulous sponsors means there will be four winners!
(Heather will have four more for you on Friday!)

Here are the beautiful items you will have the chance to win!

First up, is this gorgeous “Believe” pillow from the amazing Ann of 







Next is this absolutely beautiful set of Christmas Botanical Cards (prints of her original watercolor painting) from the talented Dawn of
Christmas Cards Botanical Pinecones Set of Six  5 x 7 Blank Cards
Now, how about a little extra “bling” this Holiday season?
You will have a chance to enter to win this incredible Steampunk Filigree Ring from the lovely Jenny of Ambivalent Relics

And last, but most certainly not least, one lucky reader will win a beautiful Letter Pendant from the amazingly creative Jeanne of juNxtaposition!

These are true treasures made using actual antique typewriter letters and the winner will, of course, be able to pick the letter of their choice.

Want to know how you can win one of these fantastic prizes?
We are giving you 3 ways in which you can enter!
1. Just simply leave a comment letting us know you would like to be entered for a chance to win…you don’t even have to link up to the party! (Separate Comment)
2.  Link up to the Doors and Porches Party and let us know you did. (Separate comment)
3. Pay these amazing Sponsors a visit at their shops and come back to let us know you checked them out. (Separate Comment)
That’s all there is to it folks!
4 Giveaways
4 Winners
Pretty good odds if you ask me! 
 The Doors and Porches Party link will be up all week long so come by anytime to join in the fun!
And, if you linked up, be sure to grab a button!


Thanks so much for meeting me here at the Fence today,

1553F4F30A9801A6AFB3E9C624118E7B

This post is partying at:
Too Much Time On My Hands: Get Schooled Saturday
You’re Talking Too Much: Meet Me Monday


118 Comments Filed Under: Blogger Block Party, Holidays

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Previous Post: « Holiday Dining at Vanessa’s House and a winner!
Next Post: Blogger Block Party, Giveaways and my Kitchen Reveal! »

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Penny @ The Comforts of Home/Flea Market Makeovers says

    December 7, 2011 at 2:06 PM

    Thanks for hosting this fun party! My entry got posted twice…sorry!

    Reply
  2. Penny @ The Comforts of Home/Flea Market Makeovers says

    December 7, 2011 at 2:06 PM

    p.s. your entry is gorgeous!

    Reply
  3. Penny @ The Comforts of Home/Flea Market Makeovers says

    December 7, 2011 at 2:07 PM

    Oh, and I linked up to your party…

    Reply
  4. Lynn@ The Vintage Nest says

    December 7, 2011 at 2:10 PM

    Thanks so much for hosting today. I know all the hard work involved. You are appreciated and your entry way says “come on in”

    Reply
  5. Lynn@ The Vintage Nest says

    December 7, 2011 at 2:11 PM

    I would love to be entered in the give-away. Thank you for the chance and Joy to you.

    Reply
  6. Betsy@ coastal-colors says

    December 7, 2011 at 2:15 PM

    Thank you for hosting this link party! I love your entrance, Vanessa! I love live greenery! Your stenciled jute webbing is perfect for your wreath! The door mat is another great idea! Thanks for sharing!

    Reply
  7. Ricki Jill Treleaven says

    December 7, 2011 at 2:16 PM

    Your entry is so elegant and welcoming! I appreciate y’all hosting the party and giveaway.

    Reply
  8. Ricki Jill Treleaven says

    December 7, 2011 at 2:16 PM

    I linked to your party! 😀

    Reply
  9. Sherry says

    December 7, 2011 at 2:20 PM

    Looks beautiful! Great block party, thanks for hosting.
    Sherry

    Reply
  10. Kelly says

    December 7, 2011 at 2:20 PM

    I really love your front entry. I like how you used jute webbing with a message stenciled on it on your wreath and love the little letters on your pots spelling out JOY. You used a lot of creativity to your entrance and it shows. I would love to be entered in this amazing giveaway too!

    Reply
  11. Kelly says

    December 7, 2011 at 2:21 PM

    I also linked up to your party.

    Reply
  12. Eclectically Vintage says

    December 7, 2011 at 2:24 PM

    Fabulous! Love the red letters on the pots – great touch. And of course, I adore mason jars! Linked my porch up too. Would love to be entered in the great giveaways! Thanks.
    Kelly

    Reply
  13. Pam - diy Design Fanatic says

    December 7, 2011 at 2:25 PM

    What a great giveaway…I would love to win! Your entry is gorgeous. You did a fabulous job!

    Reply
  14. Lakeshore Cottage Living says

    December 7, 2011 at 2:26 PM

    I am all linked up!

    Reply
  15. Pam - diy Design Fanatic says

    December 7, 2011 at 2:26 PM

    I linked up for the Doors and Porches party!

    Reply
  16. Lakeshore Cottage Living says

    December 7, 2011 at 2:27 PM

    And girl…you hit a HOMERUN! I am so in love with your front door I just want to come over and steal everything for myself…only that’s really bad and I am not supposed to want to do that…It is stunning. I am now headed back to look at it all again.

    Reply
  17. Lakeshore Cottage Living says

    December 7, 2011 at 2:27 PM

    OH and I didn’t say…YES, I want to win…so you can just tack this comment to the other one. (not trying to get 3 entries or anything) 😉

    Reply
  18. Debbie says

    December 7, 2011 at 2:32 PM

    I just love your real greenery!! We do a live tree, but I got really cheap a few years ago and started reusing old fake ones. Now, I want to run out to the store, pic, up a real wreath, and start from scratch.

    That’s it.
    I can not come here any more.
    I am clearly having a terminal case of Christmas covetousness.

    The whole entry is absolutely gorgeous, and I do indeed feel the joy. (Still feel the envy, but the joy is there too…)

    Reply
  19. Debra @ Common Ground says

    December 7, 2011 at 2:32 PM

    Wow, your front porch is MW, “magazine worthy”!! love it all! You have some wonderful sponsors, I’d love to be entered in the give aways! xoxo

    Reply
  20. Debra @ Common Ground says

    December 7, 2011 at 2:33 PM

    Just linked up for the party!

    Reply
  21. Maria Elena says

    December 7, 2011 at 2:40 PM

    Vanessa, your front entrance is just beautiful! Thank you for hosting this party! So much fun!

    Reply
  22. Debra @ Common Ground says

    December 7, 2011 at 2:41 PM

    I’ve checked out the sponsors and already found several things I want! Thanks for the great post!

    Reply
  23. mississippi artist says

    December 7, 2011 at 2:47 PM

    Beautiful! I love the little sleigh, I am never that lucky. The webbing is so cute, I may have to try that idea-I think it would be great as ribbons on brown paper packages!

    Reply
  24. Daune | Cottage in the Oaks says

    December 7, 2011 at 2:47 PM

    Love all the great front doors and porches! 🙂

    Reply
  25. mississippi artist says

    December 7, 2011 at 2:48 PM

    I entered your giveaway, I would love any one of those beautiful items.

    Reply
  26. Daune | Cottage in the Oaks says

    December 7, 2011 at 2:48 PM

    I linked up! Woohoo!

    Reply
  27. mississippi artist says

    December 7, 2011 at 2:50 PM

    I linked to your party. Thanks for hosting.

    Reply
  28. Pattie says

    December 7, 2011 at 2:56 PM

    Having so much fun I don’t think I have ever been to so many party. Everything look amazing…Happy Holidays and thank you for hosting…

    Reply
  29. Toni says

    December 7, 2011 at 2:59 PM

    Thanks for hosting, I love to link to such inspiration.

    Reply
  30. Toni says

    December 7, 2011 at 3:00 PM

    Thanks for the chance to win. Such fabulous prizes.

    Reply
  31. marty (A Stroll Thru Life) says

    December 7, 2011 at 3:00 PM

    Your entry is stunning. I love your decor and everything is so beautifully put together. Like a picture out of a magazine. Thanks for hosting such a fun party, I have enjoyed them all. Hugs, Marty

    Reply
  32. Toni says

    December 7, 2011 at 3:00 PM

    I visited the sponsors – fun eye candy.

    Reply
  33. Mary says

    December 7, 2011 at 3:06 PM

    Love your Joyful entrance! Your kitchen towel pillow is adorable~ what a great idea! Thanks for having me 🙂

    Reply
  34. the cape on the corner says

    December 7, 2011 at 3:13 PM

    what a fabulous porch! i love the red letters, they really pop.

    Reply
  35. Paula Jo @ Home and Garden Decor says

    December 7, 2011 at 3:17 PM

    You done a fabulous job with your entry and front door. It is just beautiful. I wish I had a big front porch like this to decorate.

    Reply
  36. Teresa@oursoutherncountryhomeandfarm says

    December 7, 2011 at 3:34 PM

    Your entry is GORGEOUS! LOVE the garland around the front door. It is so full looking. Thanks for hosting this party.

    Reply
  37. Shelia says

    December 7, 2011 at 3:36 PM

    Oh, my goodness! How gorgeous your entry is! Love your pretty garland around your door. Your JOY is just darling! You do everything well and thank you for hosting this fun party!
    Be a sweetie,
    Shelia;)

    Reply
  38. Judy Bigg says

    December 7, 2011 at 3:37 PM

    Thanks for the party, I am participating today. Your door and porch are perfect, I have pinned the picture.

    Reply
  39. debbie refresh restyle says

    December 7, 2011 at 3:39 PM

    Freehand! You’re good, your entry is a.m.a.z.i.n.g…I want to win one of these giveaways!

    Reply
  40. debbie refresh restyle says

    December 7, 2011 at 3:40 PM

    I linked up and I really want to win, Thanks for hosting and for the chances!
    Debbie

    Reply
  41. ℳartina @ Northern Nesting says

    December 7, 2011 at 4:07 PM

    Beautiful Vanessa!! I LOVE IT ALL!! Martina

    Reply
  42. ℳartina @ Northern Nesting says

    December 7, 2011 at 4:08 PM

    What great giveaways, count me in:)

    Reply
  43. Kim says

    December 7, 2011 at 4:23 PM

    The front entry looks amazing and I absolutely love your Joyeux Noel wreath!

    Reply
  44. Lauren@BaylorSays... says

    December 7, 2011 at 4:35 PM

    Oh, I want to win!!!! Pick me purty please!

    Reply
  45. Lauren@BaylorSays... says

    December 7, 2011 at 4:36 PM

    I linked up to your party…but purely for humor’s sake. My word but your porch is beautiful. Mine is so sad!!! There’s always next year. 🙂

    Reply
  46. Boxwood Cottage says

    December 7, 2011 at 4:36 PM

    So fun playing along and partying with you!
    Sending warmest wishes from Boxwood Cottage in Germany
    Carola

    Reply
  47. Kim says

    December 7, 2011 at 4:39 PM

    Please enter me for a chance to win one of these great items!

    Reply
  48. Kim says

    December 7, 2011 at 4:40 PM

    I joined your linky party. Thanks for hosting the Christmas Blogger Block Party. So far, I’m joined them all and it’s been a whirlwind fun time.

    Reply
  49. It's All Connected says

    December 7, 2011 at 5:02 PM

    Your entry is magazine worthy. Love the JOY pots! Who wouldn’t want the fab prizes you showed? ~ Maureen

    Reply
  50. Kristin @ My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia says

    December 7, 2011 at 5:04 PM

    Oh my goodness, your door is STUNNING!!! I love all the greens, so pretty! Thanks for sharing with us!
    XO
    Kristin

    Reply
  51. Jody says

    December 7, 2011 at 5:30 PM

    Wow! I LOVE how the porch turned out. Its gorgeous, and so many good ideas! Thanks for the inspiration and for hosting the party!

    Reply
  52. Youaretalkingtoomuch.com says

    December 7, 2011 at 5:58 PM

    Love your door! At first I thought….they painted their blog name on their door? ; ) Duh! I LOVE the colors! You are so talented! Love, Me http://www.youaretalkingtoomuch.com

    Reply
  53. Ruby Jean says

    December 7, 2011 at 6:18 PM

    So VERY VERY Elegant…

    Reply
  54. Terry says

    December 7, 2011 at 7:32 PM

    I am a new follower and have joined the Door and Porches Party.

    Reply
  55. Terry says

    December 7, 2011 at 7:33 PM

    I would love to win any of this giveaway. These are awesome.

    Reply
  56. Jenny says

    December 7, 2011 at 8:01 PM

    I love your front porch – every last bit of it!! The JOY planted pots, the sled, the wreath – it’s all so festive and pretty. Your guests will surely be welcome when they arrive at your home. 🙂 I have had a lot of fun with my front porch this year too – who would have thought?

    Thanks for the party – just linked up!

    Jenny
    http://www.evolutionofstyleblog.blogspot.com

    Reply
  57. Kathy @ Creative Home Expressions says

    December 7, 2011 at 8:18 PM

    Vanessa, your front door and porch is just stunning! I love the garland and wreath on and around your door. Love the sled ~ I shared my yard sale sled find, too!

    I’d love to be entered for a chance to win any one of these lovely giveaways!

    Reply
  58. Kathy @ Creative Home Expressions says

    December 7, 2011 at 8:18 PM

    I have linked up to the party!

    Reply
  59. jessica says

    December 7, 2011 at 8:28 PM

    Love it all! All this fresh cedar garland is a must for our casa next year! Gorgeous!

    Reply
  60. Tina says

    December 7, 2011 at 8:44 PM

    Thank you for hosting today’s party.

    Reply
  61. Debbiedoo's blogging and blabbing says

    December 7, 2011 at 9:27 PM

    How gorgeous! WOW you really went all out this year. I love everything. Thanks for hosting.

    Reply
  62. Kathleen says

    December 7, 2011 at 9:36 PM

    Thank you for hosting this party!
    Your entry is just beautiful, so festive.
    I love Ann’s pillow and the notecards, so pretty!

    Reply
  63. Linda says

    December 7, 2011 at 10:16 PM

    Thanks for hosting this party.
    What a great giveaway….

    Reply
  64. Merlin says

    December 7, 2011 at 10:16 PM

    That typewriter key necklace leaves me…wordless…well, HOW CUTE! Sign me up! franki
    fmparde@gmail.com

    Reply
  65. Nook & Cranny says

    December 7, 2011 at 10:25 PM

    Your front porch is stunning. I specially love the lantern full of greens and pine cones.
    Please throw my name into the drawing.
    Thanks
    Michele

    Reply
  66. Kim @ Savvy Southern Style says

    December 7, 2011 at 10:50 PM

    Your porch looks fantastic. I will be a day late linking. Just too many parties at one time.

    Reply
  67. Wendy @HerBallistic Garden says

    December 7, 2011 at 11:11 PM

    Hi Vanessa & Heather! Please enter me for a chance to win a giveaway…I’ve linked into your party and would like to thank you because if not for your party over the past few weeks, I might not have done a makeover on my front porch (#59) with such enthusiasm! Love your front door here too…beautiful and tasteful. xo wendy

    Reply
  68. Wendy @HerBallistic Garden says

    December 7, 2011 at 11:14 PM

    Okay…my brain is toast…separate entry to please enter me in contest!
    🙂

    Reply
  69. Wendy @HerBallistic Garden says

    December 7, 2011 at 11:45 PM

    Hi again! I’ve visited all the giveaway links and even bought a beautiful Vintage Chandelier & Pearls Necklace (the last one! woohoo!) from Ambivalent Relics…love the musical bubbles from Junxtaposition, linen collection from Sutton place, and “Beyond the Fence” from Redbird Cottage Arts….Thanks so much for the heads up about these artisans!
    xo

    Reply
  70. Angie says

    December 7, 2011 at 3:52 PM

    I would love to be entered to win!

    Blessings,
    Angie @ Knick of Time

    Reply
  71. Angie says

    December 7, 2011 at 3:54 PM

    I visited each of the sponsors and love every single one of them! Such talent and lovely creations!

    Angie @ Knick of Time

    Reply
  72. Angie says

    December 7, 2011 at 3:57 PM

    I shared my cozy candle holder covers that would look lovely on a porch.

    Angie @ Knick of Time

    Reply
  73. Buttercup Bliss says

    December 8, 2011 at 12:14 AM

    Thanks so much for hosting this party! I love seeing all of the gorgeous door and porch decorations.
    I just linked up to show my new wreaths.

    Merry Christmas!

    Lisa

    Reply
  74. Buttercup Bliss says

    December 8, 2011 at 12:15 AM

    I love all your wonderful giveaways. They are all terrific! I would be thrilled with any one of them 🙂

    Lisa

    Reply
  75. Ann says

    December 8, 2011 at 12:16 AM

    Please enter me in this fabulous giveaway.

    Reply
  76. sissie says

    December 8, 2011 at 12:16 AM

    Your front porch should be featured in Southern Living magazine or Traditional Homes….
    it’s unbelieveably beautiful and stunning.

    hugs
    Sissie

    Reply
  77. Ann says

    December 8, 2011 at 12:17 AM

    I joined the party with my porch post!

    Reply
  78. Ann says

    December 8, 2011 at 12:20 AM

    I’ve visited all of your talented sponsors. I’m going to order some gifts–and maybe something for myself. :=)

    Reply
  79. FrouFrouBritches says

    December 8, 2011 at 12:37 AM

    Gorgeous! Gorgeous! Gorgeous!! I’m all linked up. Can’t wait to check out the links.

    Reply
  80. Jane@Cottage at the Crossroads says

    December 8, 2011 at 2:20 AM

    Your entry looks fabulous! Love all the details like the sled and the red letters spelling JOY. I wanted to link up, but I haven’t finished my tree on my porch! Perhaps I’ll be late to the party. Count me in your giveaway, though.

    Reply
  81. Linda says

    December 8, 2011 at 4:01 AM

    Your porch is really lovely! I love everything you put together for a perfect, welcoming entry!

    Reply
  82. Linda says

    December 8, 2011 at 4:01 AM

    I have joined the party, too…thanks for hosting!

    Reply
  83. pballard says

    December 8, 2011 at 4:13 AM

    Thanks so much for this wonderful giveaway and a chance to win!

    Reply
  84. pballard says

    December 8, 2011 at 4:17 AM

    I visited all the sponsors and love their sites. Thanks for sharing!

    Reply
  85. Mary Ellen says

    December 8, 2011 at 5:05 AM

    I would love to be included in your giveaway!! I hope to link up to your party although it will be late as I am still in process!

    Reply
  86. vikki says

    December 8, 2011 at 5:47 AM

    Oh my, I sure would love to win any of the above. Thanks for hosting.

    Reply
  87. vikki says

    December 8, 2011 at 5:52 AM

    I visited your sponsers of the lovely giveaway gifts and all I can say is they are very talented ladies.

    Reply
  88. Cindy says

    December 7, 2011 at 10:29 PM

    I would LOVE to win…thanks so much for the chance!

    Reply
  89. Cindy says

    December 7, 2011 at 10:29 PM

    I’ve linked to your party…thanks for the chance to win!

    Reply
  90. Jen @ Creating with the J's says

    December 8, 2011 at 1:54 PM

    Love the greenery! Thanks for hosting!

    Reply
  91. Pamela says

    December 8, 2011 at 2:44 PM

    Vanessa you have truly out done yourself!! Your porch is amazing!!!

    Reply
  92. White Whimsy says

    December 8, 2011 at 3:24 PM

    I would love to be entered in your giveaway. Thanks and thanks for hosting such a great linky party.

    Reply
  93. White Whimsy says

    December 8, 2011 at 3:25 PM

    I just linked up. Thanks again!

    Reply
  94. Christie says

    December 8, 2011 at 7:30 AM

    Okay…where do I begin? Yes, I can see you standing there with a very warm smile! Wish I could walk on through that door! It is A.M.A.Z.I.N.G.!!! I remember Delores from Vignettes wreath, too! You did a great job! It is so bright and cheery…all the details pefect my friend! LOVE the pillows, the JOY, the stenciling…Thanks so much to you and Heather for hosting! Christie

    Reply
  95. Pamela says

    December 8, 2011 at 3:31 PM

    Vanessa did you just bump this post?? I could have sworn it up yesterday and now it shows up as a new post today….If you did then tell me how to do it too please!?;)

    Reply
  96. Stevie from GardenTherapy.ca says

    December 8, 2011 at 5:10 PM

    please enter me in the contests. thanks!

    Reply
  97. Stevie from GardenTherapy.ca says

    December 8, 2011 at 5:10 PM

    I linked up to the post. Thanks!

    Reply
  98. Kim @ Savvy Southern Style says

    December 8, 2011 at 7:05 PM

    Love your front porch. That sled is awesome. I am finally linked up. thanks for hosting.

    Reply
  99. Marsha says

    December 8, 2011 at 9:55 PM

    I love your front porch and that sled is too cute. I hope I find some great towels to make pillows with, too. Thank you for hosting the party.

    Reply
  100. Debby says

    December 8, 2011 at 10:22 PM

    Oh please enter my name. I’d love to win these sweet gifts. Thanks for the chance.

    Reply
  101. Janette - The2Seasons says

    December 9, 2011 at 1:37 AM

    We are participating in your Porch Party.

    Reply
  102. Janette - The2Seasons says

    December 9, 2011 at 1:38 AM

    Please enter me to win the great gifts.

    Reply
  103. Suzy says

    December 9, 2011 at 1:53 AM

    Loved your pics and j-o-y is truly joyful.

    Reply
  104. Kim says

    December 9, 2011 at 2:07 AM

    Thanks so much for hosting this fun party! I am new to blogland so I am not certain how this party really works … but loved joining in! And also love finding you two!

    Reply
  105. Deb says

    December 9, 2011 at 4:32 AM

    I would love to win! Thanks for the giveaways!

    Reply
  106. 1 Funky Woman says

    December 9, 2011 at 1:46 PM

    Oh my your porch is amazing! I love the little burlap banner on the wreath! I so am going to link my front porch! Can’t wait to see more of your amazing house!

    Megan

    https://1funkywoman.blogspot.com

    Reply
  107. Richella says

    December 9, 2011 at 2:57 PM

    This is one of your most beautiful posts EVER! Just stunning!!

    I’m running way behind, but I finally linked to this party. Now I’m writing a post for your Christmas in the kitchen party. Better late than never, right??

    Hope you girls are having a wonderful week. Thank you so much for putting together such a fun group of parties!

    Reply
  108. Crafty Mischief says

    December 9, 2011 at 8:24 PM

    Your decorating is lovely! Thanks for sharing!

    Reply
  109. Lisa @ Fern Creek Cottage says

    December 10, 2011 at 7:51 PM

    This one of the prettiest Christmas entryways I have ever seen!! Next year can I just copy everything that you did? 😉

    Reply
  110. Elizabeth (Blue Clear Sky) says

    December 12, 2011 at 1:15 AM

    Thanks for hosting. I’m enjoying my time tonight visiting lots of links and reading back through your posts (I’m a new follower.) Thanks also for the chance on the lovely prizes.

    Reply
  111. Elizabeth (Blue Clear Sky) says

    December 12, 2011 at 1:18 AM

    Your entry is so pretty. I linked up our porch and I’m taking notes to add a few details to our steps and walkway (maybe next year) like your lovely JOY planters with trees.

    Reply
  112. free standing toilet paper holder says

    March 3, 2012 at 8:20 PM

    Love all the great front doors and porches… 🙂

    Reply
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    May 22, 2012 at 6:49 AM

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    June 1, 2012 at 2:07 PM

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  115. Elizabeth Fisanick says

    December 6, 2013 at 5:35 AM

    I love your prizes and would like to be entered into the drawing. Thanks!

    Reply

Trackbacks

  1. 13 Christmas Porches, Doors, and Entryways | Mobinop says:
    December 13, 2012 at 9:22 AM

    […] in cedar garland (a favorite of mine), this entryway by At the Picket Fence is beautifully decorated for the […]

    Reply
  2. Banisters and Foyers~Welcome to Vanessa’s Home says:
    January 27, 2013 at 5:35 PM

    […] 13, 2011 By At The Picket Fence 29 Comments As I said in my Doors and Porches Party Post last week (the link is still up by the way so come join in the fun!), I would love nothing […]

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  3. Poinsettia Front Door - Refresh Restyle says:
    February 12, 2014 at 6:12 PM

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I've been watching our cherry trees bloom for 12 y I've been watching our cherry trees bloom for 12 years now and every year I ohhhh and ahhhh over the blossoms like it's the first time I've ever seen them. I gush and I take photos (that look exactly like the ones I took the year before and the year before that) and I make my family come outside and look at them with me which you know they just LOVE to do. 😉 I think that is one of the main reasons why I love spring so much. On the one hand, it's predictable and yet, on the other hand, it still feels like such a surprise after the long months of barren branches.

And yesterday, as I was staring at the gorgeous blossoms for the umpteenth time, I couldn't help but think that I hope this is how I feel when our lives return to some semblance of normalcy.

I hope that the predictable feels special and that the typical feels anything but. I hope that I ohhh and ahhh over the simple things I've realized I've taken for granted. And, most of all, I hope that feeling doesn't go away for a very, very long time! 💗
Are you living with great expectation friends? Bec Are you living with great expectation friends? Because He is risen!

Happy Easter from my home to yours!
Lemon bars all ready for tomorrow! It’s going to Lemon bars all ready for tomorrow! It’s going to be a different kind of Easter for sure but some things don’t change. Have you been baking and getting ready for tomorrow? What’s one thing on your menu that you have to have every year?
If this is Good Friday, why doesn’t it feel so “good”? It all seems backward doesn’t it?

What could be good about the unspeakable pain he suffered? What could be good about the shame and betrayal?

Easter Sunday is so joyful, bright and cheery. Shouldn’t that be the day we call “good”? It just feels so much better!

But, I don’t know how to rejoice over His resurrection, unless I have felt the pain of His death. I have realized that in life the sweetest victories are the ones which were realized after a pain-filled journey.

And, so it is with Good Friday. I know there will be victory over death, but I can’t skip ahead in the story.

Jesus knew what was coming. He knew what he would experience. And he knew why he would go through it. He did it for me. He did it for you.

Do you know that? Have you felt it down in the very core of your soul? 
Sometimes it makes me squirm a bit. Why would anyone do that for me?

Well, because, I can’t do it for myself!

There is nothing I can do to earn that kind of love and mercy.

That is why it is called GRACE.

His grace is freely given. We don’t have to pay for it. He paid the price for us already.

Do you remember that movie from years ago called “Ransom”? A couple’s young son was kidnapped and the parents went to hell and back trying to find him and pay the “ransom” demanded by the kidnappers.

Well, Jesus is our “ransom”. (1 Timothy 2:6) His life was the payment.

Why is it called “Good Friday”? Because that wasn’t the end of the story….
.
…It was just the beginning!
Raise your hand if there’s a table in your house Raise your hand if there’s a table in your house that’s become the landing zone for ALL THE THINGS! 🙋🏻‍♀️🤪 I’ve never been more thankful for our rarely used dining room table as it’s become command central for school books and laptops and games.

Where are things collecting in your house right now?
“Sighing, tears, frustration, anger.” Every si “Sighing, tears, frustration, anger.” Every single one of these emotions has made their way through our home in recent days and, my guess is, they have in your home too.

I SO needed this reminder today from the new book ‘Adore’ by @sarahagertywrites.

Adoration isn’t just sitting at His feet gazing longingly with stars in my eyes. It’s bringing my fears and my sorrows and gray roots in my hair that desperately needs to be colored and my messy house and all of the things that threaten to send me over the edge right now and laying them down before Him, soaking up His word and His presence so that when I stand back up, I am changed for having spent the time adoring the ONE who is... Healer, comforter, peace-giver, deliverer, redeemer.

What do you need to bring to Him today? I’ll share mine in the comments and I’d love to hear from you too!
I’ve always loved evenings, but since this whole I’ve always loved evenings, but since this whole lockdown thing began, I’ve come to appreciate this time of day even more.

It feels the most...normal. Daytime is strange and foreign right now. My husband has taken over our home office, I’m suddenly taking over the responsibility of managing my kids’ distance learning and let me just say that teaching 7th grade algebra to my daughter is hugely ironic since I struggled with math all the way through school. I’m trying to do my own work but it feels utterly futile with the constant interruptions which take precedence right now. In the daytime, I’m constantly reminded of how upside down life feels.

But, in the evening, I cook dinner like I’ve always done and we gather around the table like we’ve always done and we laugh and tell stories and then clean up and play games or go on a walk or watch a show. And that feels SO gloriously normal.

So now I love evenings even more than I ever did before and I’m so grateful for this little chunk of time where the rhythms we established years ago are helping to sustain us now when so much of life feels outside of our control.

What feels ‘normal’ to you right now? Whatever it is, keep doing it. 🌿
When I was in college I would frequently call home When I was in college I would frequently call home and pour my heart out to my mom, sharing with her all that was happening in my life in that completely unfiltered way that you can talk with the person who potty trained you. These phone calls usually took place at night and my mom would patiently listen as I vented frustrations about professors, roommates, boyfriends and the food in the cafeteria. And, inevitably, they would end with my mom saying, “Everything seems worse when you’re tired. Try not to overthink things or make any major decisions tonight, especially when you are feeling emotional.” Dear friends, may I pass along this advice to you today?

If you don’t absolutely HAVE to make a decision right now, I want to encourage you to wait until life gets back to normal. If you are finding yourself over-analyzing relationships and family dynamics, I want to encourage you to remember that everything seems more dramatic when looked at under a microscope. And, let’s face it, being homebound with our loved ones non-stop makes us all feel like lab rats in an experiment.

If you are tempted to quit a job, start a business, start homeschooling permanently, stop homeschooling permanently, move to a new city, buy a farm, quit pursuing your dream, join a commune or make any other major life decision just…wait. Because, if it is in fact the right decision, it will be made even clearer once our lives return to their ‘regularly scheduled programming’. Instead, in this strange season, let’s all just take a deep, collective breath and let it out slowly, releasing the anxiety that threatens to overtake us. Let’s help each other maintain some perspective and not slip into a posture of over-thinking every little thing in our lives. Let’s remember that the enemy of our souls would love nothing more than to use this time when things feel dark to manipulate us into thinking that aspects of our lives are worse than they actually are.

My prayer for you in these days is that you will have the clarity to know what is true and that you will be filled with peace even while we live in this season of so many unknowns.
Raise your hand if you’re doing more baking thes Raise your hand if you’re doing more baking these days! 🙋🏻‍♀️ I’m trying to avoid gaining the #corona15 but my daughter and I LOVE baking together and it does help to pass the time plus it counts as a science lesson right?

If you’re able to find flour in the stores (for the love people please stop overbuying!) and you’re doing more baking at your house too you need to add this apricot bread to your list of new recipes to try!

Normally I’d point you to my blog for the directions but I’m going to do you a solid and leave the full recipe in the comments.

What have you baked so far during this time of social distancing? I’d love some new ideas!
There are a LOT of people out walking in our neigh There are a LOT of people out walking in our neighborhood right now (but still social distancing!) and she decided that she wanted to bring them some joy and put a smile on their face when they pass by our house. Also, the square with ‘say no to coronavirus’ is priceless. 😂 I just love her so much!
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