Decorating the Mantel

I forgot what its like to survive the holiday season with a puppy. Maybe a better description of wee Angus, would be a furry wrecking ball. The challenge of decorating has definitely moved up a notch. It’s as if I’m caught up in a “Mission: Impossible” dream. Should I choose to accept the mission, no telling what will self destruct within 5 seconds.

Plaid bunting inspired from 58 Water Street

While Angus was napping, I quickly started decorating the mantel. The inspiration for decorating this year came from Colleen of 58 Water Street. I follow Colleen on Instagram, and fell in love with her DIY Plaid Bunting.

Back in August, my Battle Scar Paid table was featured on Friday’s Furniture Fix, hosted by Colleen and three other bloggers. Let’s just say, I am in awe of their collective talents!

Decorating the mantle adding one element at a time

Decorating the mantel adding one element at a time

The plaid bunting I made, is a no-sew version. The heavy plaid flannel was fused together with heat bond adhesive tape. When time permits, I plan on dragging out the old sewing machine to make one that will last for many holiday seasons to come.

Silver rope winds around the moss sphere

The simple fireplace mantle has mercury glass trees from Pottery Barn, cedar branches, moss-covered spheres and silver rope. Hanging over the mantel is a pine wreath with a plaid ribbon. The over all feel is casual and relaxed, with a hint of sparkle.

Cozy mantel

Pine wreath decorated with a plaid ribbon.

Pine tree with a wool plaid scarf

Adding to the plaid decorating theme is a wool scarf tied around the Norfolk pine tree. This was as far as the decorating went before my attention turned to the puppy dogs.

Sandy is such a good sport wearing the antler below. That sad look is just like Max, in “How the Grinch Stole Christmas”. I’m not sure which is more humiliating for Sandy, wearing the antler or having Angus chew on it. The antler was a give-a-way from Petco, while I was loading up on dog treats a few days ago.