I finally decorated the tree that day
and placed the packages and baskets around the tree.
It was getting late.
The sun was setting.
I grabbed my camera to take a few “first” pictures of the tree this year.
This tree took me 2 days to decorate
from setting up to placing the baskets and packages around the tree.
I think there is approximately 1,000 ornaments on the tree and . . .
I have not purchased any this year.
I have a very large collection of ornaments,
not to mention decorations collected over many, many, many years!
I have given away and donated many and have a box ready to give away.
The sun was setting quickly and the glows of the tree casting shadows
pretty shadows.
For many years, I would hit the garden centers and specialty shops
after Christmas getting great deals on Christmas decorations
such as these branches on the top of the tree and the reindeer in flight.
So affordable when you get 50 to 75 and even 90% off.
I took this photo in complete darkness from the other side of the room.
The foyer taken just before the sun went down.
And a look into the Great Room from the foyer.
After days of rain and gloomy skies
and a very partly cloudy day yesterday,
I cannot wait to finally start taking some photos for my Christmas Home Tour.
I will be joining the lovely ladies from 11 Magnolia Lane
where there is a home featured every day from Dec. 2nd to the 20th
I will be there on December 7th.
And also look for me that day at From My Porch Front to Yours
where there will be lots of great Christmas Inspiration.
I will be finishing up my decorating today.
Have you finished your decorating?
Have a wonderful day and weekend!
So beautiful. Wow, you do have a lot of ornaments. I have given away boxes of them and have more to take. Cutting way way back. Can’t wait to see more next week.
Now that is my kind of tree!!! Themed trees are beautiful on their own but a tree that is representative of ornaments you have collected over many years really tells it’s own story. I love it and can’t wait to see the rest of your beautiful home dressed for the holiday!
How pretty Shirley, I want you to come decorate my tree 🙂 My youngest that was in the accident has a weekend pass to come home so we will be getting the tree and decorating it slowly this weekend. I would love to look through all your ornaments, that would be a fun time poking around all those beauties.
Omigosh – so so pretty!! I love how full your trees are and that shot toward the door is gorgeous!! Have a happy Friday!!
Beautiful tree Shirley and your photos are stunning. I love your displays and your ornaments collected through the years make it extra special. Looking forward to more of your lovely home for the holidays. xo
Oh, Shirley, your tree is absolutely breathtaking! Be assured the final effect is worth every minute you put into the decorating. Everyone who sees your efforts will immediately be touched by the Christmas spirit! Happy Holidays!
Rosie @ The Magic Hutch
Beautiful photos, I love trees lit when the sun is setting. I remember when my nine footer took me a week. Thought I’d miss it but now I can focus more on other decorating ideas for Christmas around our new home
Cindy
Beautiful tree! Yes you do have quite an ornament collection! Everything looks so festive…I’m a little behind in my decorating, but it’s just that kind of year for us! Enjoy your weekend! 😉
Your tree is beautiful! I love that flying reindeer!
I might have 1000 ornaments on my tree too:) And this year I had to do all the way around so MAY get a few more;) I know, we are a little nuts, huh? But I LOVE IT!!!!! Your tree is magnificent, stunning. What a fabulous welcome to your amazing home!!!! Love all the packages in the baskets!!! I only have 3 (faux) gifts wrapped!!! So much to do at this time of year!
The most gorgeous Christmas tree ever! How pretty, Shirley!
Be a sweetie,
Shelia 😉
Love the American Flag Heart! We need to show our support, and also continue our traditions especially now in these troubled times. Mwah! Thank you! Gorgeous~
Amazing.
You’ve been a busy little elf! The tree is gorgeous – I can’t believe you have more than 1,000 ornaments! I bow down to your Christmas tree decorating skills
The tree is gorgeous Shirley. I am debating about getting out the Christopher Radko ornaments. I have no idea where they are!! Jim is really good at retrieving treasure.:-) We’ll see.:-)
Oh My Shirley your tree is just gorgeous. Wow over 1,000 ornaments. That is awesome. Just sooo pretty.
Kris
Shirley the trees and lights are always so magical in the evening!!Beautiful!
xoxo
Karena
The Arts by Karena
Books for the Holidays!
Wonderful tree and decorations.
Smiles
Your tree is GORGEOUS……I have more to decorate outside and I will be decorated.
Absolutely beautiful tree. Thought you’d like a little history , on one of the ornaments we both have. My son-in-law is a fireman, we reside in NY State. The December after 911, many ornaments were given to his company. There were several, including the large puffy heart, with the American Flag motif. Fortunately for us, we did not lose him, but he was on the “pile” for many days. So, when you place that ornament on your tree again, I hope you remember all of the responders in a special way.
Thanks Mary….yes I will….I have all of the ornaments that were made that year. I believe that there were 3 of them. The Brave Heart, the red/white/blue ribbon and the twin towers…they are very special and I thank your son for his service…
I can see why it took you 2 days to decorate, but I’m guessing that opening the boxes and bringing out the ornaments is like saying hello to old friends. Each one likely has a memory.
Shirley, what a gorgeous tree!! I spied some Radko ornaments that I have! We do share many common likes. I did not put up my large tree this year, but a slim one instead in my family room! It is entirely decorated with my Radkos, with the exception of a 3 or 4 ornaments that are a mainstay! Anticipating how beautiful your home tour will be on Monday! Blessings, Pam
What a beautiful tree, Shirley! Even though it takes time, it is so heartwarming to hang each ornament and remember the story behind it or the special person who gave it to you. It’s part of what Christmas is all about!
Wow Shirley, it is stunning! LOVE the reindeer on top and the baskets of beautifully wrapped gifts~ that is such a cute idea! My husband and grands always decorate our tree, and then I have to wait until they’re not around and “rearrange” things a little 🙂 It is wonderful how you spend time remembering how special every ornament is~
Wow great what the beautiful golden Christmas trees at sunset
Gorgeous tree, You just have such a great knack for decorating everything… Happy Holiday’s…
BEAUTIFUL! Well I can understand why it took 2 days…is it a 10 or 12 footer? It looks so gorgeous in your home, Shirley:)I always wanted a tall tree, but as much time as I spend on my 7 foot tree, it might take me a week! LOL!
Swoon Shirley! Your tree is a thing of beauty and I love seeing it during the day, at night or at dusk!
Like you I have many ornaments. I actually put some away this year. I love your tree; the flag heart really caught my eye. Not done decorating yet. Merry Christmas Shirley, Linda
Shirley that tree is absolutely stunning. Your home is so warm and welcoming…just like you! 🙂