Christmas Trimmings + House Tours: Friday Finds

Thanksgiving is over and the Christmas season has officially begun. I almost made my goal of finishing my holiday shopping by Thanksgiving. I just have to get hubby’s gift which I’m doing today. Now I can get out and enjoy holiday festivities without the stress of shopping hanging over my head. The weeks leading up to Christmas are more enjoyable than Christmas day itself. Does anyone else feel that way?

I’ve got some fun finds for you today. Hopefully you’ll grab some time to enjoy the inspiration before going out for all the Black Friday sales.

Step inside this 18th century farmhouse and be amazed at the use of color throughout the home. It’s houses like this that make me love old homes over new ones.

When it comes to painting rooms, consider using contrasting trims to create depth and interest. You can use a subtle or bold contrast, depending on your style and mood.

You don’t want to miss seeing this arts and crafts style home over at House and Garden. It’s such a pleasing mix of color and pattern.

I’m currently eyeing this slouchy lounge chair from Target. Now that my dining room is back in the dining room, I need furniture for the living room. I’m thinking a loveseat and a pair of arm chairs.

See how to make your own plate rack for the wall. It would look great in a kitchen or a dining room, and lets you display some of your favorite dishes.

Need a quick decorating idea for the holidays? Get a set of 50 mini ornaments in a variety of colors, and place them all in a bowl. Quick, easy, and it looks great. I’ve got a wooden bowl of ornaments on my dining table for a holiday centerpiece.

And speaking of my Christmas decorations, at the very last minute I decided to join Jennifer Rizzo’s holiday housewalk next week. I’ve been on her tours before, but took a couple years off. I heard she was looking for a few more houses so I signed up. My holiday home tour will be next Friday. Every day next week you can visit Jen’s blog to see which homes are being featured that day. It starts on Monday.