Stockings mean a little something special at our home.  As a little girl, seeing one filled to the brim on Christmas morning meant that Santa remembered me.  I felt special.  I felt loved.  And most importantly, I felt significant. So, in looking at the stockings that hang in my home today, it brings back those memories of a time where my wants were the only ones that mattered; and my hope was full in a red sock filled with gummy bears.  I’m sure you may have felt the same without even being aware; even though those days may seem like a lifetime ago. 

Let me just say, the beautiful thing about being a parent is that we get to bring that dream come alive in our children.  The first thing that I did on Christmas morning as a little girl was run down my stairs full of joy, hope and anticipation that Santa had filled my stocking with what I had asked for on my list.  And every year he did, I felt like I had mattered.  What did this really mean?  I was a kid that was a big dreamer who chose to believe in this Christmas fairytale until the 6th grade.  I know what you’re thinking…. The question is, what do I want for my children?  I want Kennedy to believe in the “magic” of the season; but I also want her to understand the reason for the season.  To our family, it’s to give thanks… In all circumstances.  Not to just have hope in a big man in a red suit whom enters your home through forced entry.  But first and foremost, for her to put her hope in Jesus.  That’s why I’ve designed this part of my home to reflect both.  Below you’ll see exactly what I’ve created to make this space come to life.

As you may know from my previous posts, I am all about layering in my designs.  Not only in textures but also as it relates to the meaning one space has in your home.  The first thing I had to do was think outside the box.  Stockings don’t necessarily have to be hung over a fireplace.  In this case, I’ve chosen to hang them on a wall of shiplap that serves as high wainscoting.  And, do you see that shiplap wall?  I actually decided to layer that in two colors of paint (paris grey & old white).  Then, I sanded these gorgeous boards down to see the beautiful woodgrain and reveal it’s natural beauty in a raw state.  Next, I hung our stockings with care; all to be paired next to a sign that gives meaning to the space.  This truly is the anthem for our home – giving, not just recieving.  And last but certainly not least, do you see that mango wood dish on the right end of the table? This is the bowl that for every day in November, our family can write one thing they’re thankful for.  It may seem cliche.  But my hope is to fill our home with positive thoughts and love that will fill their little hearts with happiness and joy that will lead them with a lifetime of memories.

My hope is that you’ll see I’m truly passionate about leading a purpose filled life.  And I hope by allowing these posts to pour into you, you’ll lead more of an intentional life as well.  Now more than ever, it’s important to focus on what is good in the world.  As Ghandi once said, “Be the Change in the World That You Wish to See.”  I couldn’t agree more.  It is my belief that Jesus came into this world to change the world; and for everyday that I’m alive, I hope to be just that.  Not talk about change… Be The Change.  My prayer is that you may answer His calling for your life wherever you may be.  And, that you may take a few ideas from this heartfelt inspiration above and implement them into the very place you call HOME.

Merry Christmas Friends,

Melissa