A Handmade Farmhouse Barn for my Christmas Mantel

This year,    I knew early in the season  what my vision was for our Christmas mantel.
     

There's no way my vision could be bought in any store,   so I turned to my very talented hubby and asked if he could make me a big barn for the mantel.     

I did a rough sketch of what I wanted and he made my sketch come to life.

After H got my barn cut out,    it was my turn to add all the little details!

Before.......................................................................After

Isn't it awesome........thank you H!

After the barn was in place,   it was time to decorate the rest of the mantel.

Most of the decor on the mantel you have already seen in my everyday vignettes,    but the metal tree's are new.

Now for a closer look at the other end of the mantel

I have some farm animals and a couple more metal tree's.

My pink tractor made it's debut last Christmas

I'm sure it will make an appearance for many Christmas's to come

It wouldn't be Christmas without some bows on the mantel.     This is the first year I've used grey ribbon.......and I like it!

The Santa's I have on each end of the fireplace got a makeover this year.      One was dressed in red last year and the other one was dressed in blue and pink.      This year they're twins!

The last time you saw this sweet horse,   he was pulling a sled.     

You've seen the garland I hung across the mantel before........

To give my garland a Christmas touch,   I printed poinsettia letters that spell out Christmas and pinned them across the garland

I have several projects in the works that are scattered around the family room.   
I have the wrapping paper and ribbon out in the hopes of getting some presents wrapped.    I always hope to have that done early,   but it seems like I always put it off until the last minute. 

I have a pile of bows I've made on the love seat.      It's about half of what I need to get done.      Most of them will be used in the yard decor,    and some are for my daughter.

My Noel chicken wire truck is still sitting on the coffee table.....empty.       I will put a floral design in it when I have time.......

I'm also trying to finish up the family living/dining room Christmas decor and post a tour in the next few days! 

   Sounds like I have a lot left to do this week!!!!

Who am I kidding..........I LOVE the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season!