Christmas Decorating

Today, I completed the Christmas decorating. I will not be putting up the tree this year as we won't be home too much in December due to Josh's graduation, Jackie's graduation & baby Andrews arrival.

Below is the mantel with all eight the Christmas stockings. We may have to really squeeze them together next year to include a stocking for Andrew.  Also shown below is the Santa & Tree that my father-in-law, Melvin made quite a few years ago. It is proudly displayed by our fireplace every year!

Below is the decoration on the kitchen table,
the quilted table scarf was given to me last year by my sister-in-law, Karen.

While we were in Iowa over Thanksgiving, Jackie & Jonathan came over to the house and they set up my Christmas village.  It has been a few years since this has been set up. 
Most of the pieces of the Christmas village have been given to me by my
mother-in-law, Lyla and the remainder by Karl, Jill and Jackie.

The formal dining room is a little more festive than the rest of the house.
We are now, ready to entertain some holiday guests. 

Finally, the memory tree is set up with photo ornaments of Granny Murphy and
our brother-in-law, Bob.  Also on the tree are two nativity ornaments we received
from Diane & Nathan as a rememberance of Bob.

25 days until Christmas!!

When we recall Christmas past, we usually find that the simplest things - not the great occasions - give off the greatest glow of happiness. ~Bob Hope

May you have the gladness of Christmas which is hope;
The spirit of Christmas which is peace;
The heart of Christmas which is love.
~Ada V. Hendricks