By Guest Blogger Kathy Zengolewicz
I have done many projects for table centerpieces for the holidays and now I would like to show you how to make a runner for either your table or your buffet. I use this runner for my coffee table and for my buffet.
Here is what you will need to get started:

One yard of outerwear fleece (I used autumn themed material)
A package of pony beads ( a corresponding color or clear)
A rotary cutter (you can use scissors for this, but the cutter is quicker and easier)

Remove all selvage from your material. You will want to cut your …read more

Sure, poinsettias are beautiful, festive flowers, but why are they associated with Christmas? Here’s the scoop:
Mexican legend says that there once was a boy who had not gift to put by the likeness of Baby Jesus at his church on Christmas Eve. On the way there, an angel told him to pick some dried weeds for his gift. Once he laid the weeds by the figure, they turned into beautiful flowers.
The first U.S. ambassador to Mexico, Dr. Joel Poinsett, brought the plant into the United States, where it was later graced with the name “poinsettia”.

What’s better than a table dressed in fresh holiday linens? One that’s decked out with fun and festive reindeer plates!
Snowflakes are dainty, winter scenes are heartwarming and Santa’s certainly earned his place at the table, but there’s something about a wacky reindeer motif that lightens up the party and makes for a great conversation starter. Here are just a few I’ve been ogling (and chuckling over). See a set you like? Act fast and you can have these little guys on your table by Christmas.

~~~~~
Reindeer Plates from Crate & Barrel
Reindeer Plates from Shop.com
Reindeer Plates from Wrapables.com
Reindeer Plates from Pottery Barn

Think a candy cane is just a yummy garnish in your hot cocoa (well, it does serve that purpose well, doesn’t it?) Here’s a little trivia that might get you thinking otherwise:

The candy cane begins with a stick of white candy, which symbolizes the purity of the Christmas season.
The red stripes are for the blood shed by Christ on the cross for the benefit of our eternal life.
The hook shape of the candy cane is actually a “J” to represent the name of Jesus, or may symbolize the staff of the Good Shepherd.
The candy’s hard texture represents the Solid Rock, …read more

You’ve made the choice to have a live tree this year – great! There’s just something about a live Christmas tree that rounds the entire holiday season out. But choosing one can be a bit difficult. Here’s a handy-dandy list to help you find your way through a tree farm like a pro.

Balsam Fir – Short, long-lasting needles are rounded at the tip. Dark green in color with a silver cast. Very fragrant.
Douglas Fir – Slightly longer needles that have a wonderful aroma when crushed. Color is bluish to dark green. Good fragrance.
Fraser Fir – Shorter, flattened needles which are …read more