Home for the Holidays
Never before in our lifetimes has the phrase “home for the holidays” been more literal. The pandemic of 2020 has shattered many holiday norms including gatherings of families and friends. Although different this year, the holiday season is a great opportunity to try new and creative ways of celebrating.
One great way of expressing creativity is through your holiday decor. This year I have decided not to have our traditional tree for several reasons that actually do not relate to the current pandemic. First, my husband was always the main inspiration for our trees, and now, as I continue to grieve, the tree is too much of a reminder of my missing him. Second, I have a puppy who would be endlessly curious about all of the decorations and the tree itself, and I am just not up to policing her. Finally, I am excited to explore new ways to create a festive holiday atmosphere in my home.
Creating unique centerpieces is one way to add holiday charm to your home. I love mixing unexpected colors and sorts of plants and flowers like this terrarium adorned with evergreens surrounded by Christmas cacti, pink poinsettias and red camellias.
Another idea that always works well is coming up with a color theme and sticking to it. I always love the classics like red and white or blue and white for instance. There is a certain symmetry and visual pleasure in employing a color theme. Color themes also allow you to mix a diverse range of items that may not otherwise mix well together except by virtue of color matching.
Layering fragrance is yet another way to add an air of festivity to your home. I have a passion for the extraordinarily imaginative holiday fragrance collections by Diptyque, the French luxury candle, home, and fragrance purveyor. Although these collections are pricey, one can gain inspiration from their designs. I recommend sticking with a fragrance pallet such as wood, floral or spice because mixing too many kinds of scents can be a disaster for the senses.
Home for the 2020 holidays means seeing your home in a new way. This year our homes have become our sanctuaries, our offices, our schools, our restaurants, and mostly “our” place that we treasure more than ever before. How fortunate we are to have our home, when many are not so blessed. Recognizing our great fortune in having a home for the holidays is no better expressed than by beautifying our environment to share with those we love, and primarily ourself. Elevating an appreciation for “home” for those who care to do so, can be easily accomplished by donating new or gently used home items like cookware, linens or supplies, or if possible volunteering to help those who are homeless. There is no greater way to show appreciation for “home for the holidays” than by giving from your heart.
Happy, Healthy, Holidays Kind Friends!
Linda Joy Walder
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