You Said It: ‘Let the Countdown Begin’ and Other Houzz Quotables

Phew! Take a deep breath, Americans — you made it through Thanksgiving and hopefully you’re back from that overnight camping trip outside the big-box store. It’s time to put your feet up, continue digesting and start thinking, just thinking, about the next round of holidays. Here are some of the best, most practical and easiest holiday decorating tips and projects. The reason I love a holiday project, even though I’m terrible at crafty things, is because they are a wonderful way to spend time with friends and family, and they make your home inviting to your guests.

“Guess who got the turkey?” — Houzz user agardnerdesign

Your stories in this roundup of Thanksgiving disasters past completely cracked me up. If you had a disaster this year, please add it to the Comments section of Thanksgiving Tales. It will make you feel better, and this could be a really fun yearly tradition.

Full story: Thanksgiving Tales: When the Turkey Tanks


“As the holidays approach, you may have to step up your game a bit to make sure your celebrations aren’t interrupted by a pet-related crisis.” — Marianne Lipanovich

On a more serious note, make sure your holiday decorating plans keep your pets safe. Hazards include coins, balloons, small ornaments and toys, candy and candles. Give this a read and keep potential dangers in mind as you decorate, and make sure your kids are aware of them too.

Full story: How to Keep Your Pets Safe During the Holidays


“No matter how realistic it looks, an artificial tree can’t compete with the scent and feel of a real evergreen.” — Therese Ciesinski

I’m with Therese on this one. She gives us the lowdown on how to keep real holiday trees happy, like using the right-size tree stand and making sure the trees have enough water and are placed away from heat sources. She also offers advice for making good use of them after you have to take them down.

Full story: How to Care for a Freshly Cut Christmas Tree


“This wreath makes for a great indoor decoration, above a mantel or even on the doorknob of a hutch.” — Rikki Snyder

This simple wreath is adorned with just pinecones, dried lotus pods and Hypericum berries. I’ve actually seen all of those things in the Trader Joe’s flower department. In other words, this DIY project is completely doable for me, which means it’s doable for even the most DIY-deficient.

Full story: Make a Natural and Wild Holiday Wreath


“This pretty wreath will last for many weeks throughout the holiday season. Enjoy!” — Rikki Snyder

If the previous wreath was a little too sparse for you, check out this beautiful eucalyptus wreath. I love this so much, because while it’s festive enough for the holidays, it’s also wonderful year-round. And it smells absolutely divine.

Full story: Make a Long-Lasting Eucalyptus Holiday Wreath


“Smaller mason jar candles add just the right glow.” — Rikki Snyder

OK, Thanksgiving is over this year, but it’s worth looking at these simple ideas for composing a lovely Yuletide tablescape. I’m a sucker for anything that involves the ease and homespun charm of candles in mason jars.

Full story: One Table, Two Holiday Settings


“Open the first door on December 1 and let the countdown begin.” — Amy Webster

If you are a more advanced crafter, are seeking a project that will take more time and most important, are adept with an X-Acto knife, check out this ideabook on creating your own holiday Advent village.

Full story: Make Your Own Mini Advent Village

URL: You Said It: ‘Let the Countdown Begin’ and Other Houzz Quotables http://www.decor-ideas.org/cases-view-id-25127.html