December welcomes us to the holiday season with the hope of celebrations with family and friends. Christmas at my house will be different this year, as it will be at yours.

I still decorated the house for the Christmas season and put up the Christmas tree as usual. I know some of you have decided not to.

This unique year of COVID isolation challenges our Christmas traditions and gatherings like no other. We’ve all learned to navigate and create new paths to be together safely and many times, remotely. I have learned to be more thankful for family and friends.

Importance of Christmas Traditions

I think it’s most important to hold fast to the comfort and joy of family baking days, hanging outdoor lights, creating a welcoming entry, and adding cherished Christmas decorations throughout the house, this year especially.

Traditions remind us of beliefs and customs passed along from generation to generation. In these uncertain times, they are important touch points of stability. Let’s fill our homes with wonderful memories of Christmases past, and promises of hope for the future and the generations to follow.

A Bit Of Christmas At Our House This Year

The centrepiece tray was made by my Jim with my design, then decorated in our traditional colours.
I’m loving our little “pencil” tree again this year. Quite a change from the big one we had for years before we downsized.
My kids gave me the Christmas creche many years ago, and it displays beautifully on the lower shelf of our glass coffee table.
A little bit of fresh greenery at my kitchen window makes me smile.
I always add some Christmas to the washrooms for guests to enjoy.
Our family baking day included shortbread cookies, Jim’s personal favs, and both of our adult kids each made a gingerbread house.

More Thankful This Year

I’m also grateful for you, my loyal clients, as well as my suppliers and trade partners who work so hard for us all year round. Together we overcome challenges and craft the perfect plan for your space while having so much fun together. I wouldn’t change the times we share for anything, despite the frustrations of empty shelves and long delays on orders.

Wishing You…

In the spirit of this holiday season, I extend my heartfelt thanks to you for being a part of my community and choosing Jill Carty Designs for your decorating needs.

Wishing you the very best this holiday season. May your homes know joy, peace, love and much hope for the coming year. Together we will get through.

Warm regards and a very Merry Christmas!