Christmas Mantel

I do not have a theme for our Christmas decorations. If it is inexpensive and I like it, it works for me. The Christmas mantel is a mix of Goodwill transformations and post holiday bargains. I told you about the wreath here.

The piece of garland was a basic cheapy from Old Time Pottery. I added my own strand of lights. Then I went to town throwing in glittery picks, pinecones, and bulbs that no longer fit on the tree. (I have way more ornaments than a 27 year old should) Last year I also tucked in some live evergreen pieces. My philosophy on garland is that the more stuff I bury in there; the better it is going to look.

The stocking hangers have childhood Christmas photos of us. I found the hangers at Target. I usually hold off buying any clearance at Target until it goes 75-90% off.

The candle sticks were found at Goodwill and they were spray painted to match.

I have a soft spot for gnomes, but this guy is even dearer to my heart. He reminds me of a Yule Nisse. I learned about Nisse from AK, my favorite Dane. Nisses are mythical creatures of Danish folklore that watch over farms, good fortune and children at night. They are also known to cause mischief. Some day our children may have a Nisse on the shelf instead of an Elf on the Shelf,

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