Monday, November 28, 2011

A lovely gift...from my daughter

Have you ever seen such a cute candleholder? I used to have a vintage plant holder almost just like this only much larger of course.  My daughter gave this to me for part of my Christmas gift this year. I knew I would have fun fixing it all up.  I wrapped glass votive holders with doilies {some stamped with script}, added some fake pine and candles and started taking pictures. {don't have any real pine yet}

I shot photos from many angles.


I think there was a fingerprint on the lens for this photo...seems a little *hazy* in the middle.lol.

pretty in white







I started decorating a bit today {yes I am just starting } which led me to thinking about the story I saw on 60 minutes Sunday evening. It was about how many homeless people there are in the US. { the greatest percentage are in Florida} If you didn’t see it, it was heartbreaking. The reporter talked to children who were wise beyond their years and shouldn’t have to worry about the things they do. Finding a “safe” place to park their vehicle for the night, getting ready for school in gas station restrooms, not having enough food for one meal let alone all day long. Just doesn’t seem right here in America. Sometimes I think I should just sell it ALL and donate the money. We certainly can’t take it with us. Maybe a fresh start would be good.


I have more decorations than one person should have. I realize it comes from years of accumulation, but something has to give. Old ornaments, trees, houses, tinsel, decor...decor...decor...get the picture? I used to think that I had to haul out EVERY item and use it somewhere, but not anymore! I don’t like the “decorate to the max” look anymore and I am trying to figure it all out. What to get rid of and what to keep. I am going to work hard at “de-stuffing” my life in 2012. I won’t get rid of everything, but I have enough stuff for several people and much of it is going. I know I would feel much more at peace with a good purging in my home and in my heart as well. 
Blessings~


14 comments:

Irene said...

good luck with your purge, I agree, it doesn't seem fair,that some of us have so much, and some so little, but this is not something new, in America or anywhere else. Maybe someday it will end, I know we are trying. Meanwhile, love your candle display. Your daughter obviously knows what you like.

Julie Marie said...

Thanks for reminding me to open my heart... and my purse to those who are not as blessed in their lives as I have been... your new planter is just beautiful... xoxo Julie Marie

Pleuntje said...

I was touched by your story, can I see that like that ?
(I dont use a translator) Also in Holland their are poor people but I dont think there are much children without a home but their are many children with less food, etc.
We dont always realize how rich we are. We can ask God to remind us and at pray for them. My husband is curious where in de US you live. He has recently been in
Detroit.And I love the caddles wich your daugter gave to you. Love Petra

Bente said...

Oh, what a beauty. Love the candle display, and the candles are so cute.

Hugs Bente

Dorthe said...

You got a beautiful gift from your daughter, Sandi-love how you decorated it.
Your post is heartbreaking, and thought provoking-thankyou for reminding us that we have MUCH- and so many nothing.
Hugs,Dorthe

Joyce - Quilted Nest said...

Your prettily wrapped votives make that staircase sing!

Donna said...

How beautiful, Sandi! I really love wire anything, and what fun you will have with this pretty piece:) I can totally relate to what you said about having lots of "stuff"! I donated bags after bags of things before our cross country move, and I've started weeding out even more things to donate again, since we will be moving back home again next spring. Sometimes less really IS more!

Unknown said...

it's something we should ALL think about. merci for making ME think abut it. so true and words to live by...

Jacqueline~Cabin and Cottage said...

I appreciate your thoughtful post. Your heart is in the right place. And what a sweet gift from your daughter!

Lady Pamela said...

What a humbling thought, Sandi. Makes things much clearer, doesn't it.
I have some good news. I have a new grandson. Nov. 26, 9lb 3oz. All is well, Praise God for His goodness.

Anonymous said...

Soooo, sooooo pretty!

Well, one of the benifits of us moving so often is that I never have too much stuff! ♥

Sandi~A Cottage Muse said...

I am with you...going to lighten the load around here (and on me) next year!

Amanda Kaake said...

So pretty! I'm there with you on the purging. I read somewhere that time that we should really spend on other things are spent on taking care of stuff we don't even use but store. I want to be wise and keep what we should so we don't have to spend out much more money later....but I don't want to have more than we need. Hugs and prayers that you find the right balance for you.

Nita Jo said...

Gorgeous candle display! And, I am with you on the purging. I've been slowly working my way through my "stuff" and passing it on. I've got a long way to go, but it feels great to share with others.