Ann's Gift

She's the perfect Southern Lady.  Charming, witty, and beautiful.  And Christmas is her brightest time to shine.  Ann has been my friend for a long time, and every year I can't wait to see how she decorates her home. "Over the top" is often used to describe her incredible, always changing designs.

Even the backyard gets a touch of happiness.
That's the prettiest potting shed in town in the background.

One tree is never enough, and even the artwork in Ann's home is coordinated for the season.  And while the decorations are spectacular, Ann keeps the meaning of Christmas as her top priority.

But more than the trees, flowers, or food, the most beautiful thing about Ann's house, is that she uses it as a gift for her friends.

New artwork often appears at Christmastime.

Another tree filled with white and gold ornaments.
Also, more Christmas artwork on the wall.

The festive "Kids Tree" in the foyer.

Every December, Ann hosts approximately eleven different parties in her home. Church groups that would usually get peanuts, watery punch and cold metal chairs in the fellowship hall, are instead given the royal treatment.  Neighborhood groups, social clubs and dear friends all get an invitation, and Ann especially looks forward to including precious older friends who don't usually get invited to many events during the holidays.

Everywhere you look, there are special touches.

Festive touches everywhere, with fresh fruit in glass containers in the kitchen.

The food is always as fabulous as the decor, and I'm impressed with Ann's ability to keep all her antique linen napkins perfectly cleaned and pressed, ready for the next group of revelers. No paper plates either!  (Remember -  ELEVEN parties!!!)

Say it with me, "Christmas Belle."

This is the main tree, filled this year with a harvest of natural items - grape vines, seed pods, and even small pumpkins!

Here's the thing.  We all have gifts to share this time of year.  Do you make great soup?  Do you like to sing Christmas Carols?  Do you like to bake brownies, wrap gifts, send cards, or even clean house?

The mantel with more natural elements.

Sweet Miss Abby admires her Poinsettias 

Then why not take inspiration from Ann and share your gift?  There's always someone who would dearly love to be invited over for coffee.  A lonely neighbor, a single mom who could use a hand, a distant relative who would like to hear from you.

Your house doesn't have to look like this. It's YOUR gift that matters, and NOW is the time to share.

By decorating at the end of November, Ann is able to relax and enjoy her home and guests throughout December. Smart, organized, kind and creative.  I'm so glad she's my friend.

And by the way, Ann's favorite holiday?  Thanksgiving!


Stay tuned later this holiday season for a few more photos of Ann's house!

See this story and other wonderful ideas at Coastal Charm, The Dedicated House, Southern Hospitality Savvy Southern Style, Claiming Our Space, From My Front Porch to Yours, A Southern Daydreamer,  French Country Cottage, Thrifty Decor Chic, Common Ground, Funky Junk Interiors, My Romantic Home,  Alderberry Hill, The Nester and Between Naps on the Porch!