Stars have significance in many religions and there is an incredible beauty in the symbolism of a star.  Star cookies are great and a star as a tree topper is special.  They are a universal way of decorating that works for almost everyone.  I have antique ceiling tins that have been cut out in the shape of a star and sometimes that’s all the decoration I have above a mantle of greenery.  Look outside tonight and look up at the stars, make your wish and bring it into your home for the holidays.

Mistletoe is magic.  It symbolizes the hope of romance, love and possibilities.  A sprig of mistletoe tucked in a doorway or used in a wreath or arrangement on a table is a great reminder that the season is about love and giving and letting others know you care.  Mistletoe is a subtle reminder of what’s important during the season.  The gift of love is completely free. 

Christmas is about nostalgia.  Retailers recognize it too and there are lots of color palettes and patterns that hearken (you don’t get to use that word often, but ‘tis the season) to the mid-century era.  I have vintage Christmas ornaments that I mix in with current ones.  I also have old Christmas light boxes that go around a vintage tree.  Vintage for you may be a silver tinsel tree or simply tinsel.  Whatever your nostalgic memory is, bring it into your home this year.

We were all kids once, and we all have a little kid hiding inside of us.  That kid peeks out at Christmas and what better way to treat the kid inside of you (and your own children) than with toys used as decorations throughout the house.  There are old trains, stuffed animals, games new and old, puzzles, collectable toys and other options to soften the Scroogiest of Scrooges at the holiday time of year.

The retailers have gotten to me this year and I’m loving all the pillows available to add a touch of Christmas to each room.  You can buy pillows, make pillows, recover them, or have your kids help decorate them for a fun holiday project.  Whatever your choice, they offer a welcoming way of saying, Peace, Love, Joy and Merry Christmas (or Bah Humbug if you’re so inclined).