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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

November 7, 2014

A Fall Back Giveaway!

Don’t you think that getting up in the morning when it is pitch black outside just feels all wrong? It seems like some sort of cruel punishment to force our bodies out of the warmth of our beds while the street lights are still turned on.

And yet, there is something about that moment when I’ve quietly made my way downstairs, focused entirely on getting coffee and getting it quickly, and I reach to turn on the first lamp. It’s almost magical.

lamp4 atthepicketfence.com

 

I NEVER turn on overhead lights in the morning. Frankly, I refrain from turning them on unless absolutely necessary. My husband may or may not occasionally mutter the word ‘hermit’ under his breath at me. 😉

But, there is just nothing like the soft, slow illumination of a room. Its like the difference between waking your children up by gently rubbing their backs and whispering, “It’s time to wake up honey” and barging in with a bull horn shouting “WAKE UP!”.

lamp with handles atthepicketfence.com

I think the only thing that tops turning on lamps in the morning is when I get to turn on the lights of the Christmas tree before everyone in the house wakes up and watch the darkened room begin to glow.

lamps2 atthepicketfence.com

Since I may have a slight lamp obsession (do NOT look in my attic!), it seems like I am constantly buying light bulbs. And when stores started only carrying LED bulbs I have to admit that I wasn’t thrilled.

They just never quite looked the same, you know? And the glow from my lamps wasn’t quite as…well…glowing. It was ruining my early morning mojo.

So I was thrilled when I was given the opportunity to try out the Cree LED bulbs. They look and light up just like regular ol’ incandescent bulbs but use 85% less energy and last 25 times longer (yes 25 times!!). And best of all (at least in my book), they don’t take forever to come on. You know what I’m talking about right? So many other LED bulbs do that slow warm up that has you second guessing whether or not you actually flipped the light switch!

lamp3 atthepicketfence.com

I’ll admit, I was a skeptic. I was one of those who was scooping up every last ‘normal’ light bulb I could find thinking that if there was every a light bulb apocalypse, I would be the hero with my fully stocked light bulb bunker.

But, it looks like I’ll have to postpone digging that underground bunker in my back yard because these are amazing!

Cree lightbulbs

And we want YOU to get to enjoy their amazing-ness too so we’re offering you the chance to win $70 worth of Cree Light Bulbs which, believe me, will go a LONG way!

Enter to win here:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

As we ‘fall back’ into winter, it’s even more important to keep our homes warm and cozy and whether you’re a hermit like me and love the glow of lamp light or you want to turn on every overhead light you can, using the right kind of bulbs will make all the difference!

Vanessa signature

 

Find Cree LED Bulbs at your local Home Depot.

 

*Disclosure: I am a brand ambassador for Cree Bulbs and while I was compensated for this post, all opinions are 100% my own. You can read our full disclosure statement here.*

114 Comments Filed Under: Giveaways

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Angelia W. says

    November 7, 2014 at 4:04 AM

    I am so with you on the lamps!! My husband always rolls his eyes at me when I say they add ambiance to the room 🙂 Men, they just don’t get it. I am almost out of my stash of the old lightbulbs and so confused about which kind to get next. Thanks for the product details and the opportunity. Love the blog!

    Reply
  2. Lisa Brown says

    November 7, 2014 at 4:12 AM

    I don’t really do anything different for the winter, except take out the throws for the soft and chairs.

    Reply
  3. Susanne says

    November 7, 2014 at 4:24 AM

    I would love to try these bulbs. I love your blog. Thank you for the giveaway.

    Reply
  4. Heather King says

    November 7, 2014 at 4:25 AM

    Plenty of throws by the sofa!

    Reply
  5. Linda says

    November 7, 2014 at 4:26 AM

    I LOVE these lightbulbs and have been gradually replacing all the bulbs in our home with them. I also love their larger bulbs for my canned lights in the kitchen. Expensive, but the light is warm and soft and the bulbs are guaranteed to last 10 years. I save the packaging with the guarantee and staple the receipt to the packaging and store with my other warrantees.

    Reply
  6. Kristin says

    November 7, 2014 at 4:29 AM

    I put cozy throws all around on the couches and burn lots of candles.

    Reply
  7. Jean from Georgia says

    November 7, 2014 at 4:29 AM

    The Cree bulbs have been advertised at Home Depot and I think I will try them. Glad to know there is no delay when turning on the light. Thanks for the post and for sharing your pretty lamps.

    Reply
  8. Lori says

    November 7, 2014 at 4:30 AM

    I bring out the soft, snuggly blankets!

    Reply
  9. Marisa Franca @ All Our Way says

    November 7, 2014 at 4:46 AM

    I would love to get all light bulbs that reflect the daylight spectrum. Taking pictures for the blog indoors is a challenge especially with the dark dreary days. I never turn on overhead lights — they just seem too much “in your face”.

    Reply
  10. Alicia says

    November 7, 2014 at 4:48 AM

    I usually associate warm & cozy in the home with soup or meatballs simmering on the stove. I never considered the idea of using lighting for that warm & cozy feeling, especially in the morning. I think I will give that a try. Thank you for the inspiration!

    Reply
  11. Devra aka ThePomeroyLife says

    November 7, 2014 at 4:58 AM

    My husband is a lamp user; says they are more ambient than overhead lighting. He just recently decided to switch us to LED bulbs, but they are so pricey he says we have to switch gradually. lol! These bulbs would make his day, and the best part is – he works at Home Depot and could easily pick them up!

    Reply
  12. Kara says

    November 7, 2014 at 4:59 AM

    I love to have a fire in the fireplace and cuddle up in nice warm blankets.

    Reply
  13. Donna H says

    November 7, 2014 at 5:06 AM

    I like to cozy up my home with comfy throws and candles . I love your blog and home decor ideas !

    Reply
  14. Alison says

    November 7, 2014 at 5:10 AM

    I like nice warm cozy blankets around the house.

    Reply
  15. Rosa G. says

    November 7, 2014 at 5:13 AM

    This is the second review I have seen for these bulbs….so I will try them. We keep warm blankets all around the house and usually have a cup of hot chocolate before bed!

    Reply
  16. Carissa says

    November 7, 2014 at 5:20 AM

    I am almost always baking something this time of year. It makes me feel cozy walking into a warm kitchen with something delicious in the oven!

    Reply
  17. Robin C says

    November 7, 2014 at 5:20 AM

    Totally agree about NOT turning on overhead lights when they are lamps. Anxious to try these CREE LED bulbs because I am not a fan of the regular LED.

    Reply
  18. Gina DeSantis says

    November 7, 2014 at 5:33 AM

    I’m with you … I love the light from a lamp to make the house feel cozy in the winter. And I turn the Christmas tree lights on firs thing in the morning too … best way to enjoy a cup of joe. I pull out all sorts of flannel blankets and pillows to make the house feel more warm and cozy in the winter. Thanks for the giveaway!

    Reply
  19. Chrissie says

    November 7, 2014 at 5:39 AM

    I absolutely dislike overhead lighting too. I have not tried the CREE LED bulbs yet, love the chance to win them – Thanks!

    Reply
  20. Diva Kreszl says

    November 7, 2014 at 5:40 AM

    I am so with you on the lighting issue, I too prefer some nice ambient light to glaring bright light. I have yet to try these Cree bulbs but will definitely look into them, thanks for sharing !!!

    Reply
  21. Sherry Tune says

    November 7, 2014 at 5:41 AM

    I would love to try these, I have been like you, hoarding the regular bulbs. I hope to win so that I can try these out.

    Reply
  22. Sharon K says

    November 7, 2014 at 5:53 AM

    A fire in the fireplace and warm throws on some chairs and couches!

    Reply
  23. Cyndee says

    November 7, 2014 at 6:04 AM

    Cool bulbs,nice blog!

    Reply
  24. Tanya says

    November 7, 2014 at 6:09 AM

    I’m an overhead light gal (I need it for my sewing) but hubby prefers the lamplight. Would love to tr the Cree LED bulbs. Thanks so much for sponsoring this giveaway.

    Reply
  25. terri B says

    November 7, 2014 at 6:12 AM

    I love using our cute little space heater and warm cozy socks!!

    Reply
  26. Raquel says

    November 7, 2014 at 6:28 AM

    I like bright rooms, but I also enjoy the quietly lit space. So I get it.

    Reply
  27. Kay says

    November 7, 2014 at 6:31 AM

    I switch out my throw pillows to some that are more warm and inviting and I also switch out the bedding from coverlets to quilts.

    Reply
  28. Tracy says

    November 7, 2014 at 6:31 AM

    I like to cozy up on the couch with a warm blanket and a hot beverage and watch the fire in the fire place. That is simply the best for me. I totally agree that lighting makes all the difference in how you wake up.

    Reply
  29. Karen J says

    November 7, 2014 at 6:43 AM

    Soft light.. from lamps or candles works everytime.

    Reply
  30. Pam says

    November 7, 2014 at 6:47 AM

    Fire in the fireplace, Pottery Barn throw on the couch and vanilla candle burning. Works for me every time!

    Reply
  31. Bailey Dexter Parr says

    November 7, 2014 at 6:51 AM

    I love the feel of being surrounded by soft lighting and a light scent from my favourite scented candles, so cozy!

    Reply
  32. Alison says

    November 7, 2014 at 6:54 AM

    Cozy blankets around the house and a fire in the fireplace.

    Reply
  33. joeyfromsc says

    November 7, 2014 at 6:59 AM

    I love lamps & mood lighting myself and am a bit of a lamp hoarder too ha

    I don’t think overhead lighting should be used for anything but bowling alleys lol

    I make my home feel warm & cozy in the winter, by bringing out nice, soft & fluffy blankets. I also think candlelight(battery operated or real) adds alot of “warmth”!

    Thank you for the chance to win these!

    Joey J

    Reply
  34. Richella Parham says

    November 7, 2014 at 7:01 AM

    I’m thrilled to read this post, and so happy to know that you’re working with Cree. Cree is headquartered in my hometown!! I hope they’ll bring you to Durham sometime. . . I would so love to show you around our beautiful city.

    I’m a lamp girl, too, and I haven’t made the switch to LED. Thank you so much for the review of these light bulbs. I’d love to win!

    Reply
  35. Melissa M says

    November 7, 2014 at 7:07 AM

    I love having a fire.

    Reply
  36. Becky says

    November 7, 2014 at 7:15 AM

    Love LED and natural light! What a great product!

    Reply
  37. Judy E says

    November 7, 2014 at 7:18 AM

    I love lamps! Prefer them to the overhead lights as they are so much kinder, I think. I’d love to try these bulbs!

    Reply
  38. Mia says

    November 7, 2014 at 7:20 AM

    Warm woolen blanket, fire & coffee.

    Reply
  39. Maureen says

    November 7, 2014 at 7:37 AM

    Big pillows and throws and warm beverages such as hot chocolate or hot apple cider.

    Reply
  40. Anne Marie Carter says

    November 7, 2014 at 7:50 AM

    I like to use crochet throws and candles to set a cozy mood.

    Reply
  41. Debbie says

    November 7, 2014 at 8:30 AM

    Definitely lamps and hot beverages!

    Reply
  42. carol clark says

    November 7, 2014 at 8:48 AM

    candles going or some oil i put out and some nice comfy throw covers and always peppermint laying around

    Reply
  43. Amy Reed says

    November 7, 2014 at 8:50 AM

    Break out the faux fur pillows and throws – so soft and cozy for the colder temps!

    Reply
  44. Debra C says

    November 7, 2014 at 8:53 AM

    Throws and candles.

    Reply
  45. Nancy Sharp says

    November 7, 2014 at 9:09 AM

    I love lots of light. My husband likes a smaller electric bill. This is the second post I’ve read about these so it looks like I’m going to have to try them. LET THERE BE LIGHT!

    Reply
  46. Jen says

    November 7, 2014 at 9:18 AM

    I love all your lamps I also have them everywhere because we live in an old home an there is none in the ceilings

    Reply
  47. Cheryl Blatchley says

    November 7, 2014 at 9:19 AM

    Listen to soft music with soft lighting, sip hot chocolate, tea or sweet latte, and curl up with a warm blanket and a good book! Now that’s relaxation! The right lighting and music sets the mood in any room of the house! Love your blog!

    Reply
  48. Traci says

    November 7, 2014 at 9:27 AM

    I use lamps & cozy throws!

    Reply
  49. libby says

    November 7, 2014 at 9:31 AM

    Throws everywhere so people can pick up if they feel chilly

    Reply
  50. Kim says

    November 7, 2014 at 9:42 AM

    Candles everywhere.

    Reply
  51. Jana Coley says

    November 7, 2014 at 10:01 AM

    We keep blankets around to snuggle under if we feel cold.

    Reply
  52. Cheryl Ann says

    November 7, 2014 at 10:06 AM

    My favorite for that cozy feeling is the fragrance of orange spice tea on the stove, a fire in the fireplace, and a good light by my favorite chair to read by. I can’t wait to try Cree lighting!
    Cheryl Ann

    Reply
  53. HS says

    November 7, 2014 at 10:30 AM

    I like to add cashmere throw and change the color of light bulb.

    Reply
  54. Martha says

    November 7, 2014 at 10:50 AM

    I agree with you about the original LED lights, not a fan. I’ll definitely give these a try.

    Reply
  55. Rhonda A Johnson Fortner says

    November 7, 2014 at 10:50 AM

    Decorating and lighting candles warm snuggly blankets hot drinks and my fake fireplace heater !

    Reply
  56. Sandra says

    November 7, 2014 at 10:51 AM

    Slowly,but surely,changing out all of our light bulbs. We have high ceilings so long life bulbs would be Great!! Thanks for the offer!

    Reply
  57. Linda says

    November 7, 2014 at 11:00 AM

    This year I hope to add a gas fireplace insert but mostly I enjoy a good cup of coffee and some warm sweats and a comforter or throw to snuggle with on the couch when I have time to watch a little TV. And some good baking smells never hurt. I love fall baking with the deep smells of cinnamon and pumpkin and spices of all kinds. Not to mention apples and darker flavors like coffee and chocolate.

    Reply
  58. dee says

    November 7, 2014 at 11:03 AM

    I love the light and add warmth of candles plus good smelling Wallflowers from Bath & Body.

    It helps to know what people think of those Cree lights since I’m also one the hoards normal light bulbs!

    Reply
  59. Kelly says

    November 7, 2014 at 11:07 AM

    I light candles more often in the fall and winter and will put out thicker throws.

    Reply
  60. Joanne A says

    November 7, 2014 at 11:11 AM

    I agree. Lamps tucked in corners give off a nice glow and have a welcoming feel to them, instead of the brightness of pot lights. I also like the warmth and glow from our fireplace. It’s such a cozy feeling to tuck into a comfy chair with dim lights and a fire. I keep a soft blanket close to my chair for those early mornings. My toes get cold. Lol

    Reply
  61. Jessica says

    November 7, 2014 at 11:12 AM

    I love pumpkin spice candles and rosemary with lemon simmering on the stove. Bring out the low lamps and warm cookies? Yes, please!

    Reply
  62. denise low says

    November 7, 2014 at 12:12 PM

    I just like watching t.v in the dark. Sometimes I turn on the fireplace.

    Reply
  63. Dandi D says

    November 7, 2014 at 12:16 PM

    I love sitting by the fireplace, but unfortunately we don’t have one at our house.

    Reply
  64. Lynn says

    November 7, 2014 at 12:21 PM

    I live in Florida, so there really isn’t a winter, but I love making our home feel cozier, just by switching out summery pillows for cozy fabric ones, changing out accessories, such as filling a glass jar in my kitchen with apples instead of lemons, etc.

    Reply
  65. MichelleD says

    November 7, 2014 at 12:28 PM

    i love a cozy fireplace and soft, warm, fuzzy throws available for snuggling!!

    Reply
  66. Kellie says

    November 7, 2014 at 12:52 PM

    Fire in the fireplace always makes the house feel cozy.

    Reply
  67. Lisa Mothersead says

    November 7, 2014 at 12:58 PM

    I like that morning time, too, when I turn on my kitchen chandelier dimmed to just the right amount of light. Your lamps are so pretty, as are your homes. Thanks for the giveaway drawing!

    Reply
  68. Kay Brodine says

    November 7, 2014 at 1:31 PM

    I totally agree with you on the lights. I do not like overhead room lights!! I am also obsessed with lamps. I am always finding a lamp I can’t live without. I want to try the Cree bulbs because I do not like the other new bulbs. No ambiance at all. Thanks for the info….

    Reply
  69. Martha Franks says

    November 7, 2014 at 1:44 PM

    I like soft light too! Hate overhead lights unless I’m working in kitchen. Would love to win cree lights.

    Reply
  70. Kelly Kimmell says

    November 7, 2014 at 1:57 PM

    Flameless candles are always a must in the winter at our house.

    Reply
  71. TAMARA says

    November 7, 2014 at 2:55 PM

    I LOVE A NICE WARM FIRE AND MY GRANDMOTHER AND GREAT-GRANDMOTHERS KEROSENE LAMPS. THAT’S ENOUGH LIGHTING FOR ME. JUST CURL UP IN FRONT OF THE FIRE WITH MY PUPPY DOGS AND SIP ON A YUMMY CUP OF HOT COCOA OR SPICED CIDER. COZY, COMFY, WARM AND INVITING.

    Reply
  72. Becky Weber says

    November 7, 2014 at 3:05 PM

    We like to get cozy with a wood burning fire in wood stove!

    Reply
  73. Jennifer H. says

    November 7, 2014 at 3:13 PM

    I love candles and lots of soft throw blankets.

    Reply
  74. Sharon Lynn says

    November 7, 2014 at 3:24 PM

    Candles with the smell of fall and winter and warm blankets 🙂

    Thank you for the opportunity and God Bless You 🙂

    Reply
  75. Betsy Barnes says

    November 7, 2014 at 3:52 PM

    I add a few throw pillows and warn, fuzzy throw blankets in my living room. Also during the colder months, I cook a lot of meals in the slow cooker. Great comfort foods warms my whole family 🙂

    Reply
  76. Pam Ballard says

    November 7, 2014 at 4:11 PM

    I love having my fireplace going with my favorite scentsy in the warmer. Thanks for the chance at this giveaway.

    Reply
  77. Pamela H. says

    November 7, 2014 at 5:14 PM

    Oh, my! I want to make different light shades — using the frame to tie on various white/cream fabric — fun!

    Reply
  78. Lauren says

    November 7, 2014 at 5:22 PM

    My favorite way to make my home feel warm and cozy in the winter is with lots of blankets, throws, and candles. I’ve been wanting to try the Cree bulbs. Thank you for the giveaway and the opportunity to possibly do just that! 🙂

    Reply
  79. Lisa L says

    November 7, 2014 at 5:39 PM

    Pumpkin spice candles and lots of soft blankets.

    Reply
  80. Ashley C says

    November 7, 2014 at 5:50 PM

    I love snuggling up under soft blankets and lighting some of my favorite candles

    demureprincess7(at)gmail(dot)com

    Reply
  81. Sally P says

    November 7, 2014 at 6:10 PM

    Love a fire in the fireplace – sooooo cozy 🙂

    Reply
  82. Jenny scheldberg says

    November 7, 2014 at 6:40 PM

    I like to make a stovetop potpourri of oranges and cinnamon. It’s heavenly.

    Reply
  83. Sharon McIntyre says

    November 7, 2014 at 8:22 PM

    A nice fire in the fireplace, hot chocolate, dimmed lights to enjoy the fire better. I love the winter!

    Reply
  84. PENNY SITTEN says

    November 7, 2014 at 8:23 PM

    Love the fireplace & snuggling on the couch

    Reply
  85. Shirley@Housepitality Designs says

    November 7, 2014 at 8:24 PM

    We love the Cree light bulbs around herefor more reasons than one!!…Love your lamps!! Great giveaway!

    Reply
  86. MARTHA says

    November 7, 2014 at 11:18 PM

    Apple pie & snowflake candle scents in different rooms & plenty of firewood for the fireplace.

    Reply
  87. Kelly D says

    November 8, 2014 at 4:26 AM

    I like to decorate with candles, and put warm throws on the couches.

    Reply
  88. Judy Lyle says

    November 8, 2014 at 6:35 AM

    Cozy winter means the smell of evergreen and something that has been cooked that contains cinnamon. Plus a book and blanket!

    Reply
  89. Terri S says

    November 8, 2014 at 7:11 AM

    I’m always simmering cinnamon sticks, orange rinds and different spices this time of year. It makes the house smell so good and adds moisture to the air.

    Reply
  90. Melanie C. says

    November 8, 2014 at 7:44 AM

    Just bought a few of these and live them but will have to save up for some more (unless I win)

    Reply
  91. Marie Valum says

    November 8, 2014 at 7:47 AM

    We have started using Cree bulbs, even switched to them in our travel trailer!

    Reply
  92. Karen Sue says

    November 8, 2014 at 8:27 AM

    We have a fireplace space heater – I just turn the flame portion on and snuggle with throws. Really cozy

    Reply
  93. Heather B says

    November 8, 2014 at 11:26 AM

    A nice fire going in the old wood stove and lots of throws on the sofa.

    Reply
  94. Tina F says

    November 8, 2014 at 12:56 PM

    I love to have scented candles going some pillows on the floor and couch and throws on the couch and chairs The lights are on but very dim

    Reply
  95. kristen mcclary says

    November 8, 2014 at 2:00 PM

    we bring out our holiday blankets and i usually always have something yummy in the crockpot filling the air during the holiday season

    Reply
  96. Kaye Killgore says

    November 8, 2014 at 5:27 PM

    Cozy blankets, warm drink, and a good book

    Reply
  97. Tonya Dreese says

    November 8, 2014 at 5:42 PM

    firepit and warm cozy blenkets

    Reply
  98. Carla S. says

    November 8, 2014 at 9:57 PM

    Love our cozy fireplace, soft lights, and some of my hand crocheted afghans tossed around to snuggle under. Mmmm, nice.

    Reply
  99. Shannon says

    November 9, 2014 at 8:13 AM

    I like draping throws and blankets.

    Reply
  100. Chris says

    November 9, 2014 at 10:32 AM

    Your lamps are so pretty. The shade are so nice. I love lamps. I would like to try these new to me light blubs from Cree. Thank you, Chris

    Reply
    • Chris says

      November 9, 2014 at 10:34 AM

      oops I forgot to say that being cozy curled up in a comfy chair with a good reading lamp behind me so I can read a good book, while sipping tea on a cold morning.

      Reply
  101. Racheal says

    November 9, 2014 at 11:24 AM

    I like to use lamps instead of overhead lights and lots of candles.

    Reply
  102. Kim says

    November 9, 2014 at 12:53 PM

    I’m a light bulb fanatic and would love to try these out!

    Reply
  103. Alina says

    November 9, 2014 at 2:00 PM

    I put out extra red and plaid throws all over the living room and basement. I also love to light candles during winter.

    Reply
  104. Sean C says

    November 9, 2014 at 2:01 PM

    During Fall and Winter, I love baking once a week so the house smells yummy. And, I also love having holiday movie nights with the children and hot cocoa.

    Reply
  105. Destiny says

    November 9, 2014 at 3:27 PM

    I love to cozy my home by pulling out my throws & baking.

    Reply
  106. betty n says

    November 9, 2014 at 3:28 PM

    I like making hot apple cider with cinnamon sticks in the crockpot. The house smells good all day. I also get out the throws and some fall candles.

    Reply
  107. angela says

    November 9, 2014 at 4:54 PM

    i love my lamps and tables.

    Reply
  108. Nate says

    November 10, 2014 at 6:23 PM

    During the winter I think it helps to be active with the curtains and blinds – open wide to let in the light, then close them up to shut out the dark and cold!

    Reply
  109. Sherri Howell says

    November 12, 2014 at 9:19 AM

    I love thw look and feel of lamps, throws, and candles to warm up the house

    Reply
  110. Julie says

    November 12, 2014 at 1:21 PM

    A fire going in the wood stove 🙂
    thanks for the giveaway

    Reply
  111. Brooke Ann says

    November 12, 2014 at 1:48 PM

    Lots of blankets and throws with great smelling candles!

    Reply
  112. Annette says

    November 13, 2014 at 7:34 AM

    My favorite way to make my home feel warm and cozy in the winter is with candles, a fireplace, and seasonal throws on the couch and chairs.

    Reply
  113. Jan says

    November 13, 2014 at 5:01 PM

    Laying quilts around the furniture to cozy up with

    Reply

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The first weekend in December seems like a good ti The first weekend in December seems like a good time for my annual gentle reminder about this month. I don’t know about you but, for me, December is a month of mixed emotions, ranging from joy-filled moments to ones that have me wanting to pull my hair out.

There are so many expectations and we put so much pressure on ourselves to create magical memories. And for years I have felt the added weight of wanting to make sure my family had opportunities throughout the month to grow in their relationship with Christ.

We celebrate advent and read all of the appropriate Baby Jesus books and encourage a spirit of generosity and heavily emphasize the real reason for the season.

But sweet friends, I want to remind you today that one month out of the year does not a strong relationship with the Lord make. December doesn’t define our faith in Christ.

For our families or for us.

There are 11 other months in the year. 11 other months to live out our faith in front of our children. 11 other months to pray with them. 11 other months to help them wrestle through their questions and add depth to their walk with the Lord. 11 other months to encourage them to have generous spirits.

Let’s stop putting so much pressure on this one month out of the year. Let’s be surprised at the ways we might be able to celebrate the baby in the manger without a dozen countdown calendars. Let’s give our kids some grace when they are focused more on gifts because…well…they’re kids after all.

And while we’re at it, let’s give ourselves some grace too.

Grace when we think we should feel all the warm fuzzy feelings about Christmas but we really just want to take a nap. Or have a good cry. 

Grace that reminds us that this month will soon be over and we will have a brand new year ahead of us.

A new year filled with big moments and little moments and everything in between.

A new year to draw even closer to our Savior.

My hope for you is that, as you head into this season, you will be given fresh perspective and that you will give yourself (and your family) permission to just ‘be’. ✨
✨ The first Sunday of Advent is upon us and this ✨ The first Sunday of Advent is upon us and this year I created a super simple centerpiece for my dining room that incorporates the candles we will use each of the four weeks leading up to Christmas. While we will only light one candle each week, I used more than four so that the centerpiece would look a bit more filled in. In keeping with my goal to embrace a softer approach to my decorating, this arrangement works perfectly and helps to keep our focus on the beauty and the meaning  of the Advent season. For more ideas like this, check out my previous Advent post! ✨

#advent #adventcandles #simplechristmas #wearethehomemakers
In this season of motherhood, my soul is feeling a In this season of motherhood, my soul is feeling a bit more tender. When Christmas rolls around and I no longer have wish lists that include Lego sets or dollhouses, I find that I want my home to reflect this craving for all things gentle.

So our hot cocoa station this year is much more simple and done in a neutral color palette that just subtly blends in with the rest of the decor. It still feels festive and is definitely still “user friendly” but it’s just a bit less…well…less.

And, that’s ok. It’s not that this area won’t ever again have bright colors (maybe even pops of red!) but, right now I’m happy to have things this way.

With all that is going on in the world right outside our door, my desire is for our home to truly feel like a respite. I want it to be where we come and let our guard down, our heart rates slow and to be flooded with a sense of peace in knowing that here is where we can just simply be. I want it to be a place of rest. Rest from the constant onslaught of news and information. Rest from the seemingly small struggles of school and jobs that can so often feel like big struggles.

And, most importantly, we rest in the comfort of knowing the One who is Sovereign over all and is the reason this month is so very special and sacred.

Many blessings to you dear friends as we kick off this wonderful season! ✨
Next week is first Sunday of Advent. And contrary Next week is first Sunday of Advent. And contrary to popular belief, the celebration of Advent is VERY different from just simply doing a ‘countdown to Christmas’. It’s not about having little drawers filled with candy or doors to open with prizes inside. Those things are so much fun and definitely help to build anticipation as you head closer and closer to the big day.

But Advent, from the latin word ‘adventus’ meaning ‘arrival’ or ‘appearance’ keeps the focus completely on celebrating the arrival of the King who came in the form of an infant.

This is one of our favorite family traditions and over the years I’ve figured out how to incorporate the Advent candles into my decor without using the traditional wreath. I hope this gives you some ideas and inspiration as we head into this sacred season. 🌲

#advent #adventdecoration #wearethehomemakers
Why do I start decorating before Thanksgiving? Bec Why do I start decorating before Thanksgiving? Because it’s the Saturday after and my house is almost completely ready to start the season! So I’m sitting with my coffee and just soaking it all up knowing that now I can focus on shopping, hosting and preparing our hearts for the start of Advent. The only thing left to do is get our fresh tree for the front room and then the decorating is done. 

Starting early is a gift I give to myself and I’m always grateful for it! 🌲

#simplechristmas #traditionalchristmas
“I would maintain that thanks are the highest fo “I would maintain that thanks are the highest form of thought, and that gratitude is happiness doubled by wonder.” ~ G.K. Chesterton

Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours dear friends! 🍂
Christmas has arrived in the family room where I k Christmas has arrived in the family room where I keep things simple but festive! We’ll get a fresh tree after Thanksgiving which will go in our front room bay window but this slim faux tree with its colorful ornaments tides us over for now. Which room in your home gets the Christmas treatment first? Or do you just start doing a little at a time in each room? 🎄

*pillow covers are from @jshhomeessentials
I share this recipe every year because it’s JUST I share this recipe every year because it’s JUST.THAT.GOOD! 

And I have a confession ...I’d rather have cranberry sauce smothering the turkey on my plate than gravy any day!! And this, this right here? Well it’s the best (and easiest!) cranberry sauce ever!! I eat on crackers and sandwiches and sometimes just by the spoonful. It’s so yummy! And I’m just so very thankful for all of you that I’m going to leave the recipe right here instead of making you go to the blog to get it. I promise you won’t regret having this on your Thanksgiving menu but be warned...you may find yourself up in the middle of the night sneaking some helpings of this deliciousness. Or maybe that’s just me!

Ingredients:
2 pounds fresh or frozen cranberries
2 oranges
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup white wine.

Instructions:
Wash and pick over berries, removing any that are soft. Peel and dice oranges removing any seeds. Combine all ingredients in a large pot. Bring to a full boil. Reduce heat and continue cooking until cranberries pop open and mixture is thickening.
For best flavor, prepare and let stand for several days before using.

Gobble, gobble!! 🦃
How do I want people to feel when they walk throug How do I want people to feel when they walk through my front door? That’s always at the top of my mind when I’m decorating my entry for each season, particularly at Christmastime. 

✨I want them to feel like my home is greeting them with a smile.

✨I want them to feel like this is a place where care has been given to details (but not to the point of being too stuffy or too busy or too overwhelming). 

✨I want them to feel like there is peace here.

✨I want them to feel like they are welcome…because they are. 

My home is a reflection of my heart and my heart is a reflection of the ONE for whom I live and try to honor and praise all of my days, but especially at Christmas.

How do you want people to feel when they come into your home? 

#christmasentry #simplechristmas #simplicity #wearethehomemakers
This is not a criticism of those who are sharing t This is not a criticism of those who are sharing their great new Christmas finds but rather an encouragement to those of you who are feeling a bit overwhelmed by it all and trying to resist the temptation to purchase more items than you really need.

Several years ago I felt a conviction in my heart about how much time and money I was spending on trying to create a new look every Christmas. I was not being a good steward of my resources and I was far too easily swayed by the peer pressure in this area. And a funny thing happened when I smashed this idol that had taken up residence in my heart. I suddenly found renewed joy in decorating for the season. By keeping things simple and maybe only buying something like a new spool of velvet ribbon, I actually realized that I could be far more creative reusing and repurposing what I already had.

In the coming weeks your news feeds will be filled with temptations for MORE. Maybe, this year, you too can find the joy in LESS. 🌲

#simplechristmas #simplicity #wearethehomemakers
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