Nutcracker Mantel

Greetings!  And, thank you all SO much for your thoughtful comments about my whimsical Christmas kitchen decor!  I really appreciate it ... your sweet notes are the reason why I blog.  Again, thank you!   

Since we're all in (or getting in or need to be in) the holiday spirit, and the blog Christmas par-tays are beginning, I thought I'd share my great room mantel today.  Like last year, I chose to embellish it with nutcrackers.  However, this year, I added a few more ornaments, snowflakes and beads:

These pretty green, red and gold shatterproof ornaments are from Wal-Mart ($5 for a box of 18)!  Love.

Last year, I had one simple row of gold beads (from Old Time Pottery).  This year, I added more ... fun:

I added the gold, glittery snowflakes this year, as well (from a local Christmas shop):

I also decided it might be fun to add a couple of canisters of the traditional Christmas nuts.  Of course, I just *had* to perch a mini nutcracker right on top.

Up above, the wreath is adorned with a few Christmas gold, red and green balls:

And, what fireplace would be complete without fresh cookies and cold milk waiting for Santa!

I leave you with a nighttime shot, with the mantel all aglow! 

Thanks for stopping by!  Come on over and visit the following blogs who are having fun gatherings:

The Lettered Cottage/Holiday Home Linky Party

Savvy Southern Style/Boring to Better Party

Southern Hospitality/Vignette Party

French Country Cottage/Feathered Nest Friday

Southern in My Heart/Inspiration Friday

Bargain Hunting with Laurie/Favorite Things

The Tablescaper/Seasonal Sundays



Hugs,