The weary world rejoices . . .

The lead up to Christmas is my favourite time of year – I love the sense of anticipation created by this special day. As we begin to feel weary and world worn as another year draws to a close, the hope created by the baby born in the stable so long ago quickens anew.  “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30

I’m sharing these photos from our annual bookclub Christmas party which I host each year. Styling a Christmas table combines a few of my favourite things : Christmas, entertaining and decorating! I like to pick out a theme and decorate with that in mind. This year I was inspired by the seven swans a-swimming from the Christmas carol, The Twelve days of Christmas. The seven swans a-swimming are a reference to the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit (wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety and fear of the Lord), which are found in Isaiah 11:1-2.

I am indebted to the very creative people at The House that Lars Built for inspiration. The link contains the tutorial to create the swan centrepiece and the free printable for the swan place cards. I also used some tea light holders as little individual vases at each place setting (these were gifts for each person to take home). Other table setting details included a set of the Twelve Days of Christmas plates from Pottery Barn and some “Wee Willie Winky” candlestick holders for added ambiance. I hung my daughters’ beautiful swan themed ballet costumes around the room (they were too pretty to be only worn once).

Do you love the anticipation of Christmas?