Among the pine and cedars, one of my favorites for adding some greenery
indoors is boxwood.
across the top of the chalkboard.
Gorgeous green boxwood and chalkboards
so happy together
😉
They look like bubbles reflected in the lights from the tree.
The victims of the shooting in Connecticut have not left my mind since Friday.
It is absolutely heart wrenching.
I have not been feeling like doing much blogging
and some bloggers are taking time off and stepping back from their blogs this
week on various days in unity to show support for the victims
On Friday, I pulled the post I had scheduled. I was so incredibly sad and my heart was hurting
for the families. So many of you have been feeling the same way and have paused this weekend
stopped doing the normal things and stayed close to home.
I hesitated again to post but then a comment reminded me why I should.
That in a world that was filled with such darkness and evil –
that pretty pictures helped them.
I know that not everyone feels that way and I absolutely understand and respect if you
need to take a break from reading and blogging as well.
Kathy @ Creative Home Expressions says
Absolutely beautiful, Courtney! The distraction is definitely needed. I feel like I cry every time the news comes on with updates.
Eclectically Vintage says
Courtney – stunning!! Love white trees – they are so festive. Paper whites, roses and old silver -what's not to love?!
Kelly
Noble Vintage says
beautiful Courtney. Where did you get the boxwood garland? Did you make it or purchase it somewhere? I've been searching for a good source for preserved boxwood….
Shannon Fox says
I definitely think you need to be a monthly contributor to a "prettiest things ever" magazine. Your pictures are always such a treat.
Unknown says
Shannon is totally right! Your table setting is unbelievably perfect! XO, Aimee
Sherry at The Rusty Pearl says
Girl the lighing the tables, the settings, OMGUSH can you say ALL OF IT !!!!!!!!! I was like I wanna live there .. JUST loving it !!!! Magazine worthy !!!!! … Hope that your Christmas is blessed ………………. Loved this post !!! LOTS !!!!
lynn cockrell says
Thank you for going ahead and sharing your photos and thoughts. I find some respite in viewing the pretty posts that my new "friends" in the world of blog are sharing. If I watch the news for any length of time,seeing the terrible and heart-breaking images, I find myself in tears. I have grandchildren in the age range of the majority of the little ones who were killed. I cannot imagine the deep sorrow those families and friends are experiencing now.
Lynn
Bonnie@Creative Decorating says
Everything is just beautiful, Courtney. I personally feel that it is good to see positive "pretty" things in a world so full of evil so we are reminded that there is still good in the world. I do think these times call for simpler posts with an acknowledgement of what is going on in Connecticut by sharing our sorrow. When we continue on immediately after without a thought about the tragedy on our blogs, it seems kind of shallow. In a way, I feel we have a responsibility as "public" spokespersons. With that said, I so appreciate your words and your gorgeous room!
Anonymous says
I heard someone say this weekend that if we all put enough good out there it will not leave any room for the bad. Your beautiful photos are putting good out there. Thank You.
Unknown says
OMG Courtney, another breathtaking room, I am in love with two crystal chandeliers. They are stunning, charming and elegant. I looking forward for another decorated rooms. Wishing you a great advent time. Greetings, Renata
Anne says
Courtney your home looks beautiful! I LOVE your tree just gorgeous.And your touches of silver and those beautiful roses too!
I am glad you are still sharing.I understand the need for some to step away.I did that over the weekend and spent time with my family.But I will not give any attention to the media reporting about that monster.I won't give them the time of day.But I will continue to pray for all those whose lives were taken way too early,also for family,friends and the whole community.
xx
Anne
Blondie's Journal says
Your white tree is absolutely gorgeous! You've decorated it perfectly. And you have all the right touches in your dining room. Very inspiring!
I feel the way you do. I can't bear to hear or read any more of the details about this horrific happening. I tossed and turned last night as I put my self in the position of these devastated families. I just couldn't get it out of my head and lost many hours of rest. SO, I'm distracting myself in a way and concentrating on getting my home ready for the holidays, for me, my family and friends. I'm holding them closer as this world gets crazier and crazier.
XO,
Jane
Katie Mansfield says
Thank you, Courtney. I have grieved and grieved over it. I don't think the children would want us to halt Christmas because of this tragedy. Thanks for sharing your beautiful images with us. A respite from the darkness in our world.
Cindy says
Everything in your home looks absolutely gorgeous as usual. I really really love your use of the greens and live plants, it's perfection.
And… thanks for speaking to the tragedy that has shaken everyone in this country and even the world. I know we all want to do something, and don't really know what to do. It's like i want to say something, but i don't have a clue what to say, or how to make it better. The only thing i can figure out to do to counteract any of it, is to do something good, even if it is make someone some cookies…
Cindy
M.A. says
Hi, I'm from Connecticut. I've run the gamut of emotions from emptiness, sadness, grief, anger and endless tears. That such a shocking, horrific tragedy could happen in our state is unfathomable. The prayers and outporing of love from everyone is such a comfort now. So are the pictures of "normalcy". Just to remember that Life goes on – must go on so evil doesn't win. Thank you.
Di says
I think that beautiful things bring a peaceful feeling in a chaotic world. Thank you it is very pretty and I'm happy you posted the pictures.
Unknown says
I love it 😉 it's so beautiful! I'm so happy my friend turned me on the your site!!! Thank you so much for sharing.
Jo Ann says
What a beautiful respite from the ugly news. Thank you for encouraging my heart that not everything in this world is ugly. These precious children are enjoying the beauty of heaven. Merry Christmas to you and your family.
PamLuvsPink says
Hi Courtney!!
How beautiful your home is!! I love the picture of the old mirror with the chandelier reflected in it. It appears that it was taken 100-150 yrs ago. Very beautiful!!!
Pam
xox
Scribbler says
I agree that we have to look at something pretty to keep our sanity. I have cried, and I have not slept well. Today, when I saw all those little faces — I lost it again. so yes, it is good to come look at something pretty as a distraction.
Heaven's Walk says
Your beautifully laid Christmas table was a restful distraction, Courtney. It's just gorgeous! 🙂
xoxo laurie
Shanon at Vintage Sparkle Chic says
Beautiful settings, Courtney! I love the white tree, that is the color I went with this year, too.
My heart breaks for the lost lives in Connecticut. Even though we all go on with our lives does not mean we forget about the tragedy. I know each person deals with it differently.
Loved your beautiful photos in a sometimes very ugly world.
~Shanon
Anonymous says
When we have such tragedy to confront, it helps to have some beauty so I am glad you posted. Someone recently said that when she sees tragedy and ugliness on TV she tells her child to always "watch for the helpers". That allows us to concentrate on those who are doing good things for mankind. Maybe this will help anyone reading this.
Unknown says
dearest Courtney ~
i have missed you and allll your glorious photo's of transformations! you are master room setter that inspires us to perhaps try and make our worlds more lovely too! thank you for sharing your brilliant talent with us all…
merriest christmas!
xo, Rosemary
Beverly says
Courtney,
Love your beautiful settings. Your photo's are so amazing. Feels like you can reach out an touch them. It was nice to see such beauty as we try to deal with last week's tragedy. I ended up creating 26 angels to put on our tree as a reminder. A small gesture but meaningful to me.
Have a Merry Christmas!
Beverly
White Ironstone Cottage says
Simply Gorgeous
you always create such beauty
and romance it is inspiring
merry Christmas
xxoo
Pam
ps I did not link this past week because I had a give away and wasn't sure that was ok
Courtney says
No worries Pam! You can link up when you have a giveaway~ that's fine! 🙂 Merry Christmas to you too!!
Jacqueline~Cabin and Cottage says
I've been knocked down badly by the sad and devastating events, and could hardly move for a few days. I tend to depression and have to make real effort to get myself together or else spiral further downward. Everyone needs different things. I give myself a break, get moving outdoors physically, and surround myself with cheery, uplifting, and happy things. Your post is part of my therapy too. Thanks so much. That reflected scene in the mirror is breathtaking! You have put together a gorgeous, gorgeous room!
stefanie says
always gorgeous!!!!!!
The French Hens Nest says
Courtney, I love your beautiful home. Thanks for sharing more of it with us. We have long been your followers. We would love it if you would check us out and perhaps join us.
Linda and Jeannie @ The French Hens Nest
Becca says
Absolutely gorgeous, Courtney! I love your centerpiece … the beautiful silver … the boxwood garland … and, the glow of your fabulous tree! Thanks for sharing! Merry Christmas
Debbie says
Your home is beautiful. I really enjoy following your blog! I have been looking for the perfect antiqued mirror with glass you can just barely see out of! Where did you get your lovely mirror?
ℳartina @ Northern Nesting says
GORGEOUS!!!