{ CHRISTmas trees & mantle}

we've had our CHRISTmas tree up since halloween. yep, we didn't even decorate for halloween or thanksgiving this year. we wanted to just enjoy our tree all season, and we have enjoyed it so much already. well, today, i've worked on getting the rest of the trees up.

here's a preview. . .

our family tree . . .

our mantle.

this year is the first year i've ever really liked our mantle at CHRISTmas. remember my fourteen dollar one from last year? it was beautiful, just a little TOO FANCY for me.

this year it is much more fun and whimsical. the LET IT SNOW sign usually hangs behind my stove each winter, but this time it's found a new home!

i used things i already had, which means i haven't purchased anything new this year. yippee!

the smell of this avon carolers candle is CHRISTmas to me. these carolers have been in my life every christmas since i can remember. as soon as i start pulling out our decorations, i can't wait to find my carolers! i get so excited to see where they will be make a home during the HOLY DAYS (not holidays, but HOLY DAYS. . .just read that).

this is our little tree on the kitchen table.

this is our tree in our bedroom. i LOVE it! not done with it yet. . .it's still a work in progress. when it's done, i'll post a pic of it. . .if i get it done!

and finally, our last work in progress. . .the boys' tree.

there are no ornaments on the tree, but that will change soon. we will start this in a few days, and i can't wait to see it get filled with beautiful ornaments that the kids make that tell the CHRISTmas story.

have you decorated or shopped today. . .or both? have a wonderful weekend! mom and i are headed to fantasy of trees this weekend, so hopefully, i'll have some new inspiration to get our bedroom tree done.