Simple Christmas Decor

The Grinch made me do it. Who knew our traditional Friday family movie night would result in my favorite Christmas decor addition in our home? Contrary to the Grinch’s view of Christmas, the movie put me in the Christmas spirit early which I’m not complaining about. Whoville is so whimsical and unique which inspired me to doodle a few Christmas trees.

A few doodles later, I then turned them into a printable with a imple Christmas saying that I wanted to share with others. If you like to add simple holiday decor to your home, you can download the printables below.

These are made to fit an 8×10 frame and/or a 5×7 matte for an 8×10 frame if you wish to add a layered look to the frame.

Sage Green – O Christmas Tree

Black – O Christmas Tree

I’d love to see how you style your printable. Be sure to comment on this post how you plan to use it and also tag @4havenssake on Instagram and Facebook!

Tis’ the Season! -Amanda

Holiday Gift Guide for KIDS

Let’s be honest, if you have kids and/or nieces and nephews, kids bring new life back into Christmas. I can remember the first Christmas our first born was old enough to understand the meaning of Christmas and Santa. The pure shock and excitement on his face as he peered into the living room from the upstairs loft and then squealed “Wow! Santa came!”, is something I will never forget.

Now our boys are ages 5 & 3 so I predict this year might be one of the best Christmases yet.

I’ve gathered some of their favorite toys in the below gift guide that I hope will help with your gift giving this year. Below the image are labeled items with links I’ve sourced for the best deals at the time. Also included are a few items not pictured that are great gift ideas.

Magic Sketch Pad – Works well for carefree doodling and a learning tool with the interchangeable inserts.

Kindle Fire HD for Kids – Easily download learning apps, have access to Prime movies when traveling all while your little one can easily hold their very own tablet because of the easy grip cover.

Discover Rock Tumbler Kit – For the outdoor enthusiast and rock lover.

Strider Balance Bike– I kid you not, our oldest went straight from this bike to a big boy bike without training wheels or assistance. I nervously was forced to let go as he confidently said “I’ve got it mom, let go!” Then off he went around our cul de sac. We cannot say enough about starting your little off with one of these bikes.

3 Wheel Scooter– The three wheels are much easier to learn on. Another go-to favorite for both of our boys.

Magic Tracks with Remote Control Car – Options to build and change the tracks with easy to snap pieces. The best part about this one, they glow in the dark and the car has headlights. This toy has provided hours of entertainment for our boys. Highly recommend!

Dance Ribbon Streamers – We first saw these at our downtown music events. The family shared ribbons with our boys which then provided endless entertainment as they twirled ribbons, danced and made new friends. Great stocking stuffer idea also.

Magna Tiles – Hands down worth the investment. You can add on with other Magna tile bundles at anytime making this a gift that lasts for years. Our oldest has made some of the most impressive builds with these. They allow for your children’s imagination to run wild. Smaller start kit can be found HERE.

Dig It Up Eggs – Fun activity on a rainy day or a perfectly sunny day spent outside.

Fishing Pole – This has been the perfect starter pole for our kiddos (Spider Man themed of course). The rubber fish bait is a perfect weight for them to cast and reel back in before the real hooks and bait are added to the line for actual fishing.

Golf Clubs – This has been requested from Santa this year. Based on research, these appear to be a great starter set.

  • Golf Shoes – A great addition if your little is serious about the sport and taking lessons.

Ride on Plasma Car – Fun for all. We have had family friendly races down the driveway on two of these. You must get one for each kiddo.

Step 2 Roller Coaster – A fun activity to set up on a sunny day, birthday parties, and when friends are over for playdates.

Nature Bound Bug Catcher – Our boys love the outdoors and catching bugs. I like that this bug vacuum keeps the bugs from their hands. The chamber can be closed off then attached to the bug box lid, reopening the chamber for the bug to enter safely into the box.

Saucer Swing – fun and relaxing swing the kids love.

Walkie Talkies – Again, another toy that has provided hours of entertainment. Not to mention, it’s fun for parents to join in the fun.

Books – Wordy Birdy & Little Blue Truck

Little Tikes Trampoline – A great way for the littles to burn energy when outdoor play isn’t always the option. We have ours on the screened in porch as the weather has been fairly mild this Fall.

Here’s to hoping you and yours have a blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year!

-Amanda

Holiday Gift Guide for Her

Happy Wednesday friends. I’m sharing my first gift guide of the season for that lady in your life. I’ve selected items that have become staples in my life that are for the home, personal wear & for the active lifestyle that is a priority in my daily schedule. It’s also important to slow down and reset so I’ve included a few items that make cozying up in a comfortable chair for quiet time ideal.

My hope is to make it easy for you to shop for that special lady or for you to easily circle and forward items you want on your own wish list and make holiday shopping easy for your significant other.

Easy Lists + Links Below

Tips: If your buying for an active lady, think about items that will be used regularly. That will translate to a gift that will be well loved. For me personally, I love activewear not only because I prioritize the gym daily, but because I actually wear clothes for comfort.

I’ve linked some of my favorite items for the gym, cycle shoes for the avide spin studio/outdoor cyclist (which I LOVE because they slip on and off so easily and the clip is flush with the base of the sole making it easy to walk when I’m not on my bike), and I’ve linked simple classic clothing items that are staples in my wardrobe and perfect if you’re building a clothing capsule of items that will always be in style.

For fun gifts, think of things that are loved in her extracurricular time. If it’s getting good coffee, the Nespresso machine is a great addition for the home that can be used by everyone. We love being able to make our own espresso, lattes and cappuccinos. Get her this Yeti tumbler with an oversized handle. I was gifted this one for my birthday in February and have found it is my go-to when I’m home and running out of the door for the day. Add in a giftcard to a local coffee shop and pair both with a bag of fresh roasted beans for home brewing.

For the home decor lover that also enjoys quiet time reading, I’ve linked two of my new favorite home decor books. Also consider a magazine subscription. Magnolia sends out a quarterly magazine, Magnolia Journal, and it’s always filled with great content. Pair these gifts with an oversized blanket and a candle and your lady will be ready to find a cozy spot in the home and enjoy some quiet time.

Holiday Gift Guide for Her

Outerwear – Patagonia Jackets & Vest:

Athleisure Wear & Active Woman Style

Cozy Home Decor + “Reset” Gifts

Stylish + Comfortable Footwear

Favorite Classic Statement Items

Less than 2 months until C H R I S T M A S ! Can you believe that? I hope this first Holiday Guide helps you with your list planning and gift giving.

SEE HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE FOR HIM – HERE