Is there beauty in imperfection?

<div style="text-align: center;">I find beauty in imperfection and impermanence.  It's all over my art.  </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGswxwIPvJeT-s2D_rpopmBLNdJK8dapfp2mH7uAxTYQqaFSLvtnUeYYTB63bMqdhlL1tevSF6u-7mEO2TbztBLdGUaTVF1TF9W_5x2mv_uLkNa1PspLOeUQ5Fssgz6rgBuQUqpRT_GiRm/s1600/gate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGswxwIPvJeT-s2D_rpopmBLNdJK8dapfp2mH7uAxTYQqaFSLvtnUeYYTB63bMqdhlL1tevSF6u-7mEO2TbztBLdGUaTVF1TF9W_5x2mv_uLkNa1PspLOeUQ5Fssgz6rgBuQUqpRT_GiRm/s640/gate.jpg" width="264" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> The petal that is captured as it starts to decay,  </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgukp8vtLcLkvIKiqZ1_RrzSlAfZnBG58qHWpKkj3bUfntzusD2CDtLW7V04g62-MjokJXrZ-r4LSSR4XdShiHJM9YugLp3RuWpPkSEDCbEg2I_aHG9RNS3ZIfmTQXwEs_eOJT_T4AT5QxX/s1600/IMG_3036_01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgukp8vtLcLkvIKiqZ1_RrzSlAfZnBG58qHWpKkj3bUfntzusD2CDtLW7V04g62-MjokJXrZ-r4LSSR4XdShiHJM9YugLp3RuWpPkSEDCbEg2I_aHG9RNS3ZIfmTQXwEs_eOJT_T4AT5QxX/s400/IMG_3036_01.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">the rusted objects found in debris, the peeling layers of wallpaper in old homes, </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKyAO10trZySoyNoHPmayjy4GkdzsMkdA4sPjdawqKakBB1-bxTq9mCW1JHqLK3UdJRviLGSMBvFQcYBcZOA-qRLjfOi1RBw9-Ci9DQLI09483a_vY3poKbQ_vumf_am-oJsnTkyCuEROc/s1600/DSCN8671_01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKyAO10trZySoyNoHPmayjy4GkdzsMkdA4sPjdawqKakBB1-bxTq9mCW1JHqLK3UdJRviLGSMBvFQcYBcZOA-qRLjfOi1RBw9-Ci9DQLI09483a_vY3poKbQ_vumf_am-oJsnTkyCuEROc/s400/DSCN8671_01.JPG" width="395" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">  and objects no longer needed for their original function, the list is endless.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg08LrYGyWhW6YjfYbdpbJZ_zDXQqQa6zz2y6-Zxr2fe6M4JDFuJp7fTeTDv_Qg5eO6iQ1GoWdpIlmJbhyphenhyphentSIfv0yRKWfgUXDNfxOJcztfKVOzsPYX68u6IuBq72DijPGKhDsp4mQKZyeA9/s1600/47f811e852c7e17075282e0d7922fa24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Accepting  transience and  imperfection (flawed beauty) can also  relate directly to your living space.  The Japanese world view/aesthetic of wabi sabi   acknowledges three simple realities: nothing lasts, nothing is finished, and nothing is perfect.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Wabi Sabi  reveres authenticity. When you look for authentic furniture and objects for your home you will rarely find them  in big box stores.  Natural materials predominate in wabi sabi homes: paper, aged wood, linens, cottons, etc. Look for anything that celebrates the  marks of time , weather, and  the effects of loving use.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div></div><div style="text-align: center;">This graphic is a good summary of the characteristics of wabi sabi. </div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtiArpoCxL3RT0u7ZD0rKsHN85ARFRvi_XNUubrcgi_2opU3_0TtUwIO01pPvfGGg4bx9Zd-45gKuxQQks2lU6WlWEyW6Uy0CAyb6n6C7DYGvL0pN9YvXGVvj_9iAMXbHuQnjaSMjDGdA1/s1600/a249a805c8504a3acc2a6bc3d98ef113.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtiArpoCxL3RT0u7ZD0rKsHN85ARFRvi_XNUubrcgi_2opU3_0TtUwIO01pPvfGGg4bx9Zd-45gKuxQQks2lU6WlWEyW6Uy0CAyb6n6C7DYGvL0pN9YvXGVvj_9iAMXbHuQnjaSMjDGdA1/s320/a249a805c8504a3acc2a6bc3d98ef113.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Characteristics of wabi-sabi include: asymmetry, asperity (roughness, irregularity), simplicity, economy, austerity,  and appreciation of the integrity of natural objects and processes.  Look for: natural flawed beauty, patina, handmade, irregularity, bareness. How refreshing!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Ws53u72n6CwQDw6y6KiuATNEbFOt_R3kLzu6A9LbkT014zkL84Z0uTnOWrSABchRtNuZoR2cGZSbhr2eGCATl2UV2ptN33K30yAWxqSnjGcc_Ll8mx3r-VhIlfnueFKATPNgPKmLydos/s1600/06745de6704c0ba9370b8c48d16f460a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Ws53u72n6CwQDw6y6KiuATNEbFOt_R3kLzu6A9LbkT014zkL84Z0uTnOWrSABchRtNuZoR2cGZSbhr2eGCATl2UV2ptN33K30yAWxqSnjGcc_Ll8mx3r-VhIlfnueFKATPNgPKmLydos/s400/06745de6704c0ba9370b8c48d16f460a.jpg" width="307" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"> This aged cabinet maintains the marks of its history.  No effort could make it perfect.  The vignette on top is simple, asymmetrical  and references the beauty and temporality found in nature. While there is austerity in the products, there is also tranquility. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg08LrYGyWhW6YjfYbdpbJZ_zDXQqQa6zz2y6-Zxr2fe6M4JDFuJp7fTeTDv_Qg5eO6iQ1GoWdpIlmJbhyphenhyphentSIfv0yRKWfgUXDNfxOJcztfKVOzsPYX68u6IuBq72DijPGKhDsp4mQKZyeA9/s1600/47f811e852c7e17075282e0d7922fa24.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg08LrYGyWhW6YjfYbdpbJZ_zDXQqQa6zz2y6-Zxr2fe6M4JDFuJp7fTeTDv_Qg5eO6iQ1GoWdpIlmJbhyphenhyphentSIfv0yRKWfgUXDNfxOJcztfKVOzsPYX68u6IuBq72DijPGKhDsp4mQKZyeA9/s400/47f811e852c7e17075282e0d7922fa24.jpg" width="343" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Many  examples of wabi sabi contain little or no colour, but I feel  colour is not exclusive of this aesthetic.  Here's a good example that has all the characteristics noted above. The marks of time are evident, even more so on colour. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNGpIFypVekp-JlOQfkDV3wlA35hE0_JXMxt2gz38x9OKBC7v29_smGH3PjL3U482ITzB6OLWC3tF8L_4uA8RZZCrqhN0dHn01xSD2epumbv_A3xVS37-Y52jFRn409-kyzK1a8FUN0CLJ/s1600/fb99b7442d2f4560d7178beb56f08612.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNGpIFypVekp-JlOQfkDV3wlA35hE0_JXMxt2gz38x9OKBC7v29_smGH3PjL3U482ITzB6OLWC3tF8L_4uA8RZZCrqhN0dHn01xSD2epumbv_A3xVS37-Y52jFRn409-kyzK1a8FUN0CLJ/s400/fb99b7442d2f4560d7178beb56f08612.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The delicacy of pink blossoms against all the weathered wood pits naturalness against roughness. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Not every space that has  wabi sabi characteristics looks exactly the same.  All of these spaces have some wabi sabi elements.   </div><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmItbOziXQ6UrEtz4uDBr1jJyO6-t9Jp8tTxBPh1S9I4jJ_0Dpst-oOvEv05YI4GAT1g7Rr16-VOiL5v3MlFNCiNbVLwM3Pc3tEnsn2yn4CiCweF2KwpRQALnq733CSATGA3F8uHZqJS4n/s1600/d944d1ff894c0e52c01b358fe0d48d79.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmItbOziXQ6UrEtz4uDBr1jJyO6-t9Jp8tTxBPh1S9I4jJ_0Dpst-oOvEv05YI4GAT1g7Rr16-VOiL5v3MlFNCiNbVLwM3Pc3tEnsn2yn4CiCweF2KwpRQALnq733CSATGA3F8uHZqJS4n/s640/d944d1ff894c0e52c01b358fe0d48d79.jpg" width="424" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixPqqXGhMzojpOzgPRpD-cg6Y6eh1oWBOeXKFmNBl_8uCx6Nmzex5XKj-b4Tpg728GRApDT4fy_46JJnQuD61uBx1Aauns7ASQI7Eo91v4OQ6E4GUv-haYpfy-JanxELjWL8yIRGfzgAW4/s1600/0ab06d8805dc241275032d722deb6392.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixPqqXGhMzojpOzgPRpD-cg6Y6eh1oWBOeXKFmNBl_8uCx6Nmzex5XKj-b4Tpg728GRApDT4fy_46JJnQuD61uBx1Aauns7ASQI7Eo91v4OQ6E4GUv-haYpfy-JanxELjWL8yIRGfzgAW4/s640/0ab06d8805dc241275032d722deb6392.jpg" width="356" /></a></div> The wood console table is a hint of wabi sabi against the glass.  The space is simple and tranquil. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4x520sS3sSVpxJUZPKjB7nTjQhArUV-V2-bCxigRX2KUqIQMPc1cJ2F6qh-W8h_ezBsju7UiI9C-mul3akM_LWZn9Q2CJ4KHeQ9vgUmRQTwl1wDODYfKQy7tP7-wEzTuUw29-OrgFkjiV/s1600/19af2bc72cbb169e79f50b57b3926304.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPS5kr_7Q6DtX4iM7Je_0T8-1tS4K7NrpS2Ah9HLajFELMRmhyphenhyphenxecipyX60nRrEWxIQaiDLxq7IzQBzpbL1pxeF_Qisk0DbbLQhhWbabujK9PqhESzoXVYKJzpv0V7UAGB59NTEloQ93wd/s1600/2104ef96a50354c6764d5cf5b45ed7f9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPS5kr_7Q6DtX4iM7Je_0T8-1tS4K7NrpS2Ah9HLajFELMRmhyphenhyphenxecipyX60nRrEWxIQaiDLxq7IzQBzpbL1pxeF_Qisk0DbbLQhhWbabujK9PqhESzoXVYKJzpv0V7UAGB59NTEloQ93wd/s640/2104ef96a50354c6764d5cf5b45ed7f9.jpg" width="502" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">  I love the imprefection of this countertop against the modern, pristine cabinets.  Am I the only person who craves warmth in countertops?  Imagine the difference if this island were finished in granite. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxYx8tkKuJDsgENPg8dLxnoOQWruIafw7hNdQF-uKz7aicdD-rJz4E9u09rpjkD36SrmpLSdLrNDbB187MkMdQaNxPnGYXgLQDhSgRQ6kRZ1aWCkfCOADmDwfUXUAKZDD3Mc8NdxhUwgLa/s1600/28945cb411a1d406c8cd6dbe89324048.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxYx8tkKuJDsgENPg8dLxnoOQWruIafw7hNdQF-uKz7aicdD-rJz4E9u09rpjkD36SrmpLSdLrNDbB187MkMdQaNxPnGYXgLQDhSgRQ6kRZ1aWCkfCOADmDwfUXUAKZDD3Mc8NdxhUwgLa/s640/28945cb411a1d406c8cd6dbe89324048.jpg" width="440" /></a></div> Lots of natural materials, simplicity and economy is line and adornment, and a focus on the handmade.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkUGnoVJIZW3eFxiSmqxtbu7ZyKVyhJ8OrI2_MPkROtq0-PUtV3MaJLDTlPFMa7vsOuNUZ-gUZVzL2_J1dOhBFjmqO1T09nE263qvk2_SgjFFf5ErPlfvWBSQhBU-mNn9xzbYT8C8id1_A/s1600/41263ff7a5747b07ad36200f8cf5a3c9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_peWgd-gjgUm16LxdajtBBjmosYf7jDZFrRaTVYt_alJ32oJf9V7brK-mSWh4HIiX3sgHsZJK3udteOgaKBXfDjftEiBXgfALK6PtlN_0fWEpuUadeISD5fdWL7QCOOabiJADdienJGX8/s1600/e7496650ae386a0168f927a4af89d688.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> If you want a little wabi sabi in your home here are suggestions for a start:  </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkUGnoVJIZW3eFxiSmqxtbu7ZyKVyhJ8OrI2_MPkROtq0-PUtV3MaJLDTlPFMa7vsOuNUZ-gUZVzL2_J1dOhBFjmqO1T09nE263qvk2_SgjFFf5ErPlfvWBSQhBU-mNn9xzbYT8C8id1_A/s1600/41263ff7a5747b07ad36200f8cf5a3c9.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkUGnoVJIZW3eFxiSmqxtbu7ZyKVyhJ8OrI2_MPkROtq0-PUtV3MaJLDTlPFMa7vsOuNUZ-gUZVzL2_J1dOhBFjmqO1T09nE263qvk2_SgjFFf5ErPlfvWBSQhBU-mNn9xzbYT8C8id1_A/s400/41263ff7a5747b07ad36200f8cf5a3c9.jpg" width="400" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmItbOziXQ6UrEtz4uDBr1jJyO6-t9Jp8tTxBPh1S9I4jJ_0Dpst-oOvEv05YI4GAT1g7Rr16-VOiL5v3MlFNCiNbVLwM3Pc3tEnsn2yn4CiCweF2KwpRQALnq733CSATGA3F8uHZqJS4n/s1600/d944d1ff894c0e52c01b358fe0d48d79.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">If you want to find out more about this aesthetic .... </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4x520sS3sSVpxJUZPKjB7nTjQhArUV-V2-bCxigRX2KUqIQMPc1cJ2F6qh-W8h_ezBsju7UiI9C-mul3akM_LWZn9Q2CJ4KHeQ9vgUmRQTwl1wDODYfKQy7tP7-wEzTuUw29-OrgFkjiV/s1600/19af2bc72cbb169e79f50b57b3926304.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4x520sS3sSVpxJUZPKjB7nTjQhArUV-V2-bCxigRX2KUqIQMPc1cJ2F6qh-W8h_ezBsju7UiI9C-mul3akM_LWZn9Q2CJ4KHeQ9vgUmRQTwl1wDODYfKQy7tP7-wEzTuUw29-OrgFkjiV/s400/19af2bc72cbb169e79f50b57b3926304.jpg" width="315" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">And remember ... </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtjvtkL8cZRZc4NtzKRDO6teQMHEEqHYkZR1jE54EjnaBlNQbYXtYvris72SdpkzoSGHbE9KrcRvbugyTe_k55nxXW0nvW5xQz8ft8zJowESqnQnH4E5ya0Ga5px_PGwulWPR2vhorKNEJ/s1600/760701307df96b582278339817d73fb6.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtjvtkL8cZRZc4NtzKRDO6teQMHEEqHYkZR1jE54EjnaBlNQbYXtYvris72SdpkzoSGHbE9KrcRvbugyTe_k55nxXW0nvW5xQz8ft8zJowESqnQnH4E5ya0Ga5px_PGwulWPR2vhorKNEJ/s320/760701307df96b582278339817d73fb6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />And a lesson we can all learn from Wabi Sabi....you can also interpret it in a much looser fashion to accept what you have as beautiful and to live with only what you need.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b>All links to images and many more examples  on my Pinterest board <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/mryall/wabi-sabi/">Wabi Sabi  </a></b></div>

Is there beauty in imperfection?

I find beauty in imperfection and impermanence.  It's all over my art.   The petal that is captured as it starts to decay,  the rusted ...

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Simple Christmas table decorations

Some homes are so overdecorated for Christmas you don't know what to look at and come away with a jumble of impressions. How much better is it to present a simple display that gets noticed. <br /><br />Before you go out and buy new objects to decorate look at what you have with a creative eye.  There are so many possibilities.  I hope this collection gives you ideas of your own. <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Fresh Flowers</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtbnuaNi8cemNWeZx-nBo4SRYQ-zgix-ZqgfOLG9vxoQ3YuYQB_LWe_NfbK02Mhb9kJ5G8z6VnJv8RhseVYEo1qc7QSDMm9w7Gg3uNXVr2qXolwZaZBKrfy78HyTiNdW28uHHWTUG5jYM-/s1600/171277592048040348_Fd5GJZHp_b.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="cream green poinsettias green bottles Christmas table" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtbnuaNi8cemNWeZx-nBo4SRYQ-zgix-ZqgfOLG9vxoQ3YuYQB_LWe_NfbK02Mhb9kJ5G8z6VnJv8RhseVYEo1qc7QSDMm9w7Gg3uNXVr2qXolwZaZBKrfy78HyTiNdW28uHHWTUG5jYM-/s400/171277592048040348_Fd5GJZHp_b.jpg" title="" width="380" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cream poinsettias in green bottles</td></tr></tbody></table></div><br />I've always loved cream coloured poinsettias.  As you near Christmas they often go on sale and the longer you wait the less you'll pay.  If your deal looks a little bedraggled this is the perfect solution. Cut  the blooms and arrange separately in bottles or clear glass vases. Perfect.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="red amaryllis white candles Christmas table" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWXoi6yNJ0LhL36dlYApeQn2jHs5tzAe8laXWPqzbrRnDimbca0zaGfz4L3ZuhislBmyzShemX1xsajJxekJxHQoAsziZK8Sd865UZjQXwIEt8VatztBKkIDEgxly2N30ByuzcpW9RP_Im/s400/171277592048090311_SteI8UuW_b.jpg" title="" width="320" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amaryllis and candles</td></tr></tbody></table></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/274684/christmas-table-settings/@center/307034/christmas-workshop#/176120">Martha Stewart</a></span></span></span></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Keep your display simple and repetitive.  Amaryllis is the flower of choice here but carnations are relatively inexpensive and last forever. </span> </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Tiered Trays</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="silver ornaments tiered tray Christmas table" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5HCwJ7bZ-m2Ln18egtuDAiri9n-WL8axscjW5-yrzqe-wQeRMqguc78rQWw0tui_u1NXHF57xFwic8yTzj-ucRmPl3s3v7215mjUlOoW7F0zyFZAryJti2rq5KvFMS2sDOUSK4-2Vx2Ac/s400/171277592048075912_R4ewWOHx_b.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="" width="357" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ornaments and greenery with a tiered cookie stand</td></tr></tbody></table><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5HCwJ7bZ-m2Ln18egtuDAiri9n-WL8axscjW5-yrzqe-wQeRMqguc78rQWw0tui_u1NXHF57xFwic8yTzj-ucRmPl3s3v7215mjUlOoW7F0zyFZAryJti2rq5KvFMS2sDOUSK4-2Vx2Ac/s1600/171277592048075912_R4ewWOHx_b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;"> <a href="http://www.styleathome.com/shopping/great-stuff/10-christmas-tree-alternatives-and-other-small-space-decorating-ideas/a/33030/4">Style at Home </a></span><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="green ornaments stacked cake plates Christmas table" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3TVDxzpCA_Dh6yy5Fc7fWEHV_Z7jtT3Y9ieMtJnwwNJBhHK24MsYr9YXxiQ7wz-KFf6NLarsiEVx4NTPL_rNOwkARLw5fFCN4R-Bhz_ctVHF6gwRukcMQvwKCBNx4aRwIASl84yqEKCZa/s400/11329436532176202_sI0Pquvi_b.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="" width="308" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Green ornaments on stacked cake plates</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.womansday.com/home/holiday-decorating-ideas/5-minutes-to-merry-holiday-decor-101415">Woman's Day</a></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />Consider stacking several cake plates of varying sizes to make an arrangement similar to this one. </div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5HCwJ7bZ-m2Ln18egtuDAiri9n-WL8axscjW5-yrzqe-wQeRMqguc78rQWw0tui_u1NXHF57xFwic8yTzj-ucRmPl3s3v7215mjUlOoW7F0zyFZAryJti2rq5KvFMS2sDOUSK4-2Vx2Ac/s1600/171277592048075912_R4ewWOHx_b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Glass Candlestick Holders</b></span><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="glass candleholders mirrored tray Christmas table" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzZA7Z6cOHJsDvOJA1k8NYniRRiB8pDdtHur6DexH4Xz6LxJ0GwJoBIn5DcFYxBmoA6TC0E2lfCM7BpiosjjK2sQpsL4A3PGsaopp9aNOZvBniEryI5r_wDHH_VLW645XYIrtfecOwhKkb/s400/171277592048091267_LfYyrMJf_b.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="" width="300" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Glass candleholders on mirrored tray</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.bhg.com/christmas/indoor-decorating/sparkling-silver-holiday-decor/#page=18">BHG </a></span><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5HCwJ7bZ-m2Ln18egtuDAiri9n-WL8axscjW5-yrzqe-wQeRMqguc78rQWw0tui_u1NXHF57xFwic8yTzj-ucRmPl3s3v7215mjUlOoW7F0zyFZAryJti2rq5KvFMS2sDOUSK4-2Vx2Ac/s1600/171277592048075912_R4ewWOHx_b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="glass candleholders glitter candles Christmas table" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK4JseI2FI0chDMsD_yczISzKiM_xxGkS9hhHc9T7Xcl0-KmGH9PgPs5WgEqpoQGP_h0RG-p_-Rf6up2u05HmEo0o10pcn9ISofgjolkt9NU8TNRKJvgQ4Pni-Jus0vodZEHSrS3tGlIv_/s400/171277592048090319_0N9B1aLA_b.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="" width="320" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Glass candleholders with silver and gold glitter candles</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/274684/christmas-table-settings/@center/307034/christmas-workshop#/199000"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">Martha Stewart</span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Create your own glitter candles and display with glass candle holders. Place a few candles in a large box and coat with spray adhesive (sold at crafts stores). Spoon glitter over the candles to coat; let dry overnight.</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5HCwJ7bZ-m2Ln18egtuDAiri9n-WL8axscjW5-yrzqe-wQeRMqguc78rQWw0tui_u1NXHF57xFwic8yTzj-ucRmPl3s3v7215mjUlOoW7F0zyFZAryJti2rq5KvFMS2sDOUSK4-2Vx2Ac/s1600/171277592048075912_R4ewWOHx_b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Fresh Fruit </b></span><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5HCwJ7bZ-m2Ln18egtuDAiri9n-WL8axscjW5-yrzqe-wQeRMqguc78rQWw0tui_u1NXHF57xFwic8yTzj-ucRmPl3s3v7215mjUlOoW7F0zyFZAryJti2rq5KvFMS2sDOUSK4-2Vx2Ac/s1600/171277592048075912_R4ewWOHx_b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="oranges pine candles mirror Christmas decorations" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_ZxlR5DeICoK7gfdiym7S1KANbKTh8jQdRV0tEzYT1ux_Br8OsDOv8COEU7zzUJNf3EVweAT1xuVO18iU-qhBaY647ZCAzcySgXfgFNcEP0ZXtK6Xh-haPxmkI02iUbR0gcF_qrw0Z53j/s400/171277592048078610_rMeUpqn7_b.jpg" title="" width="300" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oranges with pine and candles on mirror</td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://divinedistractions.blogspot.com/">Divine Distractions </a></span><br /><br />Simple white candles of varying heights, oranges and greenery. <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5HCwJ7bZ-m2Ln18egtuDAiri9n-WL8axscjW5-yrzqe-wQeRMqguc78rQWw0tui_u1NXHF57xFwic8yTzj-ucRmPl3s3v7215mjUlOoW7F0zyFZAryJti2rq5KvFMS2sDOUSK4-2Vx2Ac/s1600/171277592048075912_R4ewWOHx_b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="pears and pink ornaments with cedar and candle Christmas table" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7jwv4NNkdm3MsGTByJVBlv9x9IzCaptRM_8PYfE4ouCHEz8L9aoQnBPL41WaS__ztHs59fqXUu9PnNh8rdE7m56F41oh7PWeInpbHB9JZYmplRUndmGBD4nrqsV4VhnxMin-Nx0b8CHD8/s320/171277592048091262_ZM5vrfIC_b.jpg" title="" width="320" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pears and pink ornaments with candle</td></tr></tbody></table><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_2010795276"><span style="font-size: x-small;">BHG </span></a><br /><br />The pink adds that special touch to this display of greenery and pears. <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5HCwJ7bZ-m2Ln18egtuDAiri9n-WL8axscjW5-yrzqe-wQeRMqguc78rQWw0tui_u1NXHF57xFwic8yTzj-ucRmPl3s3v7215mjUlOoW7F0zyFZAryJti2rq5KvFMS2sDOUSK4-2Vx2Ac/s1600/171277592048075912_R4ewWOHx_b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><b><span style="font-size: large;">Ornaments </span></b><br /><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="colourful candles in glass container Christmas table" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3GP_Nah0Z3NzcSWRTYesECeYsGjoMIYQVh2X9C17spIWqOyf0DK6vMg6aqx0FBTcotv3S8_M4djBRhVN7UUQckrAA5IYldd4wdt0ijdp5vkHkPoZ2p5_QiaymnQTcprIBOsUM3yt7cZQi/s400/171277592048091260_W42eHkhL_b.jpg" title="" width="300" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Colourful ornaments in a glass container </td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.bhg.com/christmas/indoor-decorating/sparkling-silver-holiday-decor/#page=2">BHG </a></span><br /><br />Layer a vase on a tray of similar shape and fill with ornaments.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5HCwJ7bZ-m2Ln18egtuDAiri9n-WL8axscjW5-yrzqe-wQeRMqguc78rQWw0tui_u1NXHF57xFwic8yTzj-ucRmPl3s3v7215mjUlOoW7F0zyFZAryJti2rq5KvFMS2sDOUSK4-2Vx2Ac/s1600/171277592048075912_R4ewWOHx_b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="pine and pinecones under glass Christmas table" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi310LKj91ZDaAfebYuWvUpD9O8-_DfAIMiBp_J7CQj9iaIQ1cgYZArH6QfSclC3mo9IqE4ONLWqMSUHLBd_0TZBUy0Utlh1xRNpNrJ1-OLyptxCiYboyIKKq-0ax2B1mcYM_xsPN7RcG3L/s400/171277592048085180_i3n6d1jP_b.jpg" title="" width="400" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pine and pinecones under glass </td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://goodlifeofdesign.blogspot.com/2011/11/nature-inspired-christmas.html">Good Life of Design</a></span><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="fruit and tall vases with candles and greenery Christmas table" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5lT1PdStnsvlZFVQctnp2GLswY6OoPgfqVgiji8fP_8GfmaiPSl4EcwON2Kuvcd-ohsW2B-Co8tAkQLI2Vq0mMVzqt7rDXXEM29WutMNlqMjd_4xAqgOmUSlkhdLemHir54yNDFBcPRyH/s400/171277592048044981_ikC4qZv7_b.jpg" title="" width="400" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fruit in tall vases with candles and greenery</td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.bhg.com/christmas/indoor-decorating/holiday-table-arrangements">BHG </a></span><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Tall glass  vases or jars are perfect for displaying ornaments  or fruits as a centerpiece.  Add in some greenery and few candles and presto- stunning centerpiece</div></div>

Simple Christmas table decorations

Some homes are so overdecorated for Christmas you don't know what to look at and come away with a jumble of impressions. How much better...

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