Making things beautiful

As I write this at 3am, before Hannah and I go on a special little trip, I am so filled with God's words...HE makes things beautiful in His time...What a comforting thought. So inspiring that it is Gods timing that we will wait on. In this world where we are flooded with things of THIS world, constant materialism through media and other means, His timing is such a beautiful thought.

I think the most beautiful thought in my life to date, is that he will make things beautiful in His time.

He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end. Ecclesiastes 3:11

Beautiful things is what you will find on Inspired Design's blog....but my mom always told me beauty is only skin deep...so beautiful things on our blog...will be beautiful things, but not in the "exterior" ways, but beautiful in God's eyes through His words...

Essentially making things beautiful through whatever means you have always putting others first...is what you will find in Inspired Design.

Romans 12:13 tell us to "Practice Hospitality", sharing with Gods people who are in need. I think always, you will find others who are in need of a little love and tender loving kindness.

Here are some simple ideas for placesettings for when you do have people over. Remember it's about honoring them, and showing love, not about the decor only! If you catch yourself thinking only about how it will "look", correct your thinking. It is about how you will make people feel that is real hospitality.

Simple red curly straws with a bow is so festive and shows some thought. Celophane is the best friend of those who like to do beautiful things and make them sparkle.

For each table top setting I try to do some "Inspired" and some "Design"...Here is some Inspired...

~Place cards

I love to use the ceramic place cards that can be written on with a wipe-off marker. You can quickly write people’s names, a favorite quote or sentiment. Friends love that you thought about them before the dinner and even something as simple as writing their names on the place cards really makes them feel remembered.

~Welcome Sign

It is so welcoming, to have a sign somewhere near the front door to greet your family and friends. From a very personal “Welcome Smith Family” or a seasonal “Merry Christmas” to “We are so glad you are here” on a casual chalkboard or an elegant mirror or glass framed, and write with a wipe-off marker, that welcome sets the tone for the rest of the event. I used an antique french cupboard door and painted it with chalkboard paint on the raised panel part.

~Quote or Scripture

The most inspirational part of the Holiday table is the beautiful quotes and scriptures. It depends on the occasion, but a quote that is either inspiring or focused on gratitude is the favorite. There is nothing like feasting your eyes, and then your thoughts, on what we can be thankful for, especially as an example for our children. Scattering them around the home (powder room, end tables, above door jam’s) is a great way to elevate your family and friends thoughts.