Text by Vicki Ingham
In Cathy Lindberg’s opinion, there’s no better Christmas tree than a Fraser Fir. She and her husband have been buying them from the same North Carolina tree farm for so long that the growers often have a tree hand picked and ready for them when they arrive.
Cathy likes the tree because its sturdy, stiff branches are perfect for showcasing ornaments. In addition to the star and a musical-note garland that the Lindbergs have had since their first Christmas, Cathy decorates with an ever-expanding collection of ornaments specially purchased for her three daughters. When they leave home, they’ll each have a box of “starter” ornaments to take with them.
Along with the magnificent fir, Cathy uses fresh greenery and rustic, natural textures to dress rooms for the holidays. In the living room, fluffy garlands of arborvitae, cedar, and pine drape the mantel and frame a mirror.
Decorations in the dining room intermingle with Cathy’s favorite poinsettias to capture the traditional red-and-green color scheme of the season, but she says, “I also like to get away from the traditional red, green, and gold.” On the mantel she introduces a hint of blue with antique Ball canning jars filled with dried white beans and candles—they add an old-fashioned charm to the setting.
On the screened back porch, a neutral color scheme partners naturally with fresh evergreens, candles, and burlap accents. Holiday pillows and a tiny tree complete the easy transformation into a festive gathering space.
