It's that time of year...

Isn't it funny that the thing I stress most about during the holidays isn't gift giving or having enough money for gift giving...

IT'S MY WINDOW DISPLAY!

Oops, sorry for yelling...

But the stress I'm feeling is funny because it's totally unnecessary. Yes my apartment building holds this contest with a nice cash prize... but the truth is, I could win with half the effort I've been putting into it. Three winners are selected and none of my neighbors do much to try and win... There is no competition.

I guess the only competition is between me and myself. I feel this need to top myself each year. Well last year, I went a little too over the top. I'm really proud of the display I made, but there is a point when too much effort becomes a waste of time.

Last years display... Gah! So much unnecessary detail!

So this year I decided that topping myself wasn't important. It would just keep getting out of control. So last week I came up with my idea and I went for it! And the stress didn't outweigh the fun, which is how it should be.

I need a photo from street level... It looks even better from down there! And I love how the decorations I put up a couple weeks ago ties in with the display. So now that I'm finished decorating my windows I feel like I can finally relax and enjoy the holiday season!!

Merry Xmas everyone!

it's starting to feel a bit like Xmas!

I love this time of year. I always have a warm place in my heart for holiday decorating. Even though I have been so consumed with our holiday window display to even put up our tree the last few years!!

This year I'm taking a slower approach to decorating, putting different items out slowly to not cause any Xmas overload.

I started by replacing my fall leaves in the window... I'll miss them so!

They had a good run. Leaves aren't so appropriate anymore. Even though we still have yet to see any substantial snow in Chicago. Which makes me sad!

So I strung up some multicolored lights, gold shimmering garland and added a few ornaments to bring in some of that Xmas spirit.

Obviously I've got a lot more to add to the windows if I'm going to win that contest, but I'm loving how it's looking now!!