Decor Outdoor...spreading the Christmas Joy Outside!

Mr. Grits and I made the decision to decorate the outside of 
our home this year, even though we really won't be here to enjoy it 
that long.  But, I feel it's the "neighborly" thing to do.   
Almost all of our neighbors decorate their homes, and it's 
not unusual to see a stream of cars driving through the neighborhood most nights. 

So, I was wondering.... at what point do you start your 
outdoor Christmas decorating?

Some homeowners in our neighborhood had their Christmas 
lights up a few days before Thanksgiving.

I'm sorry - I just think that is a little too soon.

Generally, we decorate the first weekend after Thanksgiving.  
It takes us the better part of a day, and it's the one task that 
Mr. Grits feels like he has total control over.  :)

I will admit, when it comes to figuring out the whole maize of 
extension cords, I get a little brain-tied.

(That's like tongue-tied but with thinking)

Here is The Grits Porch from last year.  

The shot above is from Country Woman Magazine, where I 
was featured in last year's Special Christmas Edition.
(I will share those pics later this week.)
The tall, boxwood topiaries are a staple on our porch that 
get updated with each Holiday.  The white rockers get switched
 out occasionally with brown rattan chairs.  But, basically I 
just "add to" the elements already there.

Below are some pics which are truly inspirational to me. 
For example... 

I just love this rusted urn filled to the brim with 
evergreens and pinecones.  Gives new meaning to
"my urn runneth over."  :)

Here at The Grits House, we have a funky brick mailbox 

which I really dislike.  I want a small, quaint mailbox which

 I can envelop in greens and berries and add a big red bow....

just like above. 

As you might have noticed from my own front porch above,
 I also have a beautiful pair of vintage ice skates.  They're so versatile - whether you create a wreath or hang them from an antique sled as I did.

I love the textural effect of this burlap wreath.  

This could easily be placed on an outside porch

 or front door.

A vintage bistro chair offers a simple touch of 

Christmas with the addition of cut evergreens and a

centerpiece of pinecones.  The snow is a nice touch, too.  :)

I love the tall red branches nestled within the ring of 

boxwood at the base. Simple and Inexpensive!

A whimsical take on a front door wreath.

I am enjoying everyone's Christmas decor inside your home, 

but also look forward to seeing the outside, as well.