Friday, January 31, 2014

Polar Vortex #2


Well, we survived another polar vortex here in Chicago.
The temps have risen and now the next snowstorm is on its way...


The sub-zero temps have meant lots of ice on the Chicago River.


These pictures had to be taken quickly so I could put my gloves back on :)


I thought that I would share my January mantle before it is time to pack it away.
I have a large Rubbermaid tote of "decorations" for each month of the year.(OK, some months have more than one tote lol)
I love to celebrate each season and the "special-ness" of each month.
 

I like to keep little white lights burning throughout January to help with Christmas Light Withdrawals and also to brighten those long January nights.


You can't see them here, but I have timer tapers in each of the punched tin lanterns to help appreciate the beautiful workmanship.


I also have a battery operated candle in my antique foot warmer as well.


I love my little antique box with hand-carved hearts and cross. It stays out all year long, but next month is its "special" month :)

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This is my newest "January" addition. 
I love the winter scene painted on this vintage bellows.

Sometimes it is sad to pack away a month, it feels way to soon to put items away - not to be seen for another year. But then as I open the February bin, I find old favorites that have been forgotten over the year.

Wishing you love, comfort and contentment this weekend.

"Bring joy to your servant, Lord,
for I put my trust in you.
You, Lord, are forgiving and good,
abounding in love to all who call to you.
Hear my prayer, Lord; listen to my cry for mercy."
~Psalm 86:4-6

Blessing, Patti

14 comments:

  1. Morning Patti, I adore your January mantle, looks so beautiful with the white lights,tin lanterns and love the foot warmer. I would not want to put it away :) Blessings Francine.

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  2. That is the most beautiful frost pattern on your window that I have ever seen! How lovely nature painted those swirls and points! Thank you for such an unusual photo!

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  3. Great idea to keep the lights burning! Would you mind sharing the pattern name of the wool piece on your header? Love the uneven tongues & the simple snowman!! I also find so much comfort in your scripture choices. My hubby's been fighting brain cancer for four years & it's only amazing grace that gets us thru. Your blog is a bright spot in my day....thanks for sharing!!!!

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  4. Oh Patti, I just want to move right in with you so I can see every month as you decorate for it. I think your Winter mantle is now my favorite mantle picture of all time. Your lanterns are just drool worthy and the foot warmer is simply stunning. I also decorate for each holiday and my neighbors just think I'm a crazy woman but like you I think we need to cherish everyday!
    Donna

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  5. That first pic looks amazing Patti!
    Love your fireplace mantel.
    I have always been a big fan of decorating for each season too!

    Hugs,
    Tanya

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  6. Love the candles on the mantle, so warm and perfect for long, cold days.

    Debbie

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  7. Patti your mantle looks great!!!!
    I can't wait for it to start warming up.
    Hugs
    Earlene

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  8. Please start to show your monthly mantels. This one is true inspiration!

    Kathy

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  9. WONDERFUL January mantle! Love the lanterns...not so much the cold and ice. Snowing horrible here in Michigan too. Janice

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  10. Beautiful Patti - I think the mantle is one of the hardest places to decorate and I don't know why. Great idea to have a tote for each month - sure makes it easy peasy and you can always add and delete if something new comes along.

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  11. Great collection of lanterns. I hope the next storm system fizzles out before it hits!

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  12. Your mantle is beautiful. You must share a photo each time you change it out.

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  13. Love those pierced tin lanterns Patti! And the idea of a box a month? Now you'll have to show us each month as you go. (Please?)

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