Maybe the uncertainty, the turbulence of the times has me feeling rather unsettled. And I think this has pushed me to trying something new for my Christmas mantel this year.

I started with a pair of vintage garden shutters (perhaps? maybe just accent pieces) holding a wreath. Actually that’s a garland that I twisted into a two layer circle — Voila!  A lighter, airier wreath.

I wanted to keep this room simple, cozy & comfortable. I’m being drawn to neutral and nature-inspired touches. Probably my salve for the crazies of 2020. So I filled the mantel with a very simple, but lush, long needle pine garland, hanging all the way down and puddling on one side.

I brought in natural elements with a sweet little rattan sleigh I picked up a while back from my local thrift store, and loaded her with my  newly crafted bleached and frosted pinecones.

Next, I added an asymmetrical 3-tier rattan garland, made of reclaimed rattan chain  Yes, it’s re-claimed from a previous life as a boho room partition or doorway curtain. It’s another thrift store find from several years ago.

But those rattan chains needed a finishing element.

An element from nature.

An element with a touch of sparkle — it is Christmas afterall!

I am absolutely in love with my bleached and frosted pinecones!!!

Be sure to jump over to this post to see how I made them. You’ll see how easy they are and may just be inspired to make some to hang on your tree or from your mantel or just lounge in a bowl stealing the show — in a understated way of course,

I was tempted to keep going — adding flirtatious bows at each cluster of garland, but it seemed counter to my original vision, Once we get the tree up, I may feel the need to add more. But for now, I’m keeping it simple and restful.

I’m wishing you and your family a holiday season that is restful, restorative and full of harmony.