my mantle's newest incarnation.....

 My mantle has changed once again for summer.

 After all the fourth of July color, I was perfectly happy with the mantle edited down to neutral, even enjoying my rice filled jars.

Then some beautiful 6 inch hydrangeas came my way.

At first I winced when I saw them, rather than seeing their magnificent beauty,

I saw more work.

It has been really hot here in Southern California recently

and I have spent much time 

tending the garden.

I brought the hydrangeas inside to protect then until I could find them a home.

Then it hit me,

I could use them on my mantle.

and sure enough as kismet would have it, 

I had six plants.

 Believing always in quick and easy decorating, there was no way I was going to plant these in the urns....

even if they would fit.

 Instead I simply wrapped the plastic containers with craft paper  that I rolled  and crunched....

and voila.

instant containers.

I love the look of the throw away paper

juxtaposed

with the classic iron urns.

 Now I am enjoying my beautiful white hydrangeas

that have found a perfect  and easy home.

 Aren't they gorgeous!

I actually prefer decorating with live plants,

rather than cut flowers,

because I can replant them outside afterwards.

My garden is overflowing for just this reason,

and....

 I have been here....

a long time.

Wishing you love and joy as you style your life!

thanks so for stopping by

Tamera