I got it!

Hello, friends! We had an amazing time traveling and celebrating with family over the last week. I stopped to count my blessings as I realized how fortunate we are to have family members we enjoy being around and who make hanging out and doing nothing lots of fun!

Before Christmas, I shared that I was hoping to decorate with magnolia leaves this year but couldn't find an affordable option. I told you all about it here and also told you I'd be stalking the after Christmas sales to snag some up for next year.

Well, guess what I found at Pottery Barn yesterday?...

The exact Magnolia Leaf Garland I was stalking hoping to score. But, wait, it gets better! They only had 2 left and they were pre-lit. I was so pleased to gaze at that little price tag and see that I was about to purchase 2 garlands for less than the original price of one. Yep, certainly a great deal and well worth a bit of delayed gratification!

I was hoping to pass this steal onto you guys but it doesn't appear to be on sale on the website. Guess you'll have to make a quick run to the store if you're interested.

Magnolia Christmas Decor

I hope everyone is recovering from their food comas and ready to face the week. I'm curious how many of you spent the last few days fast forwarding into December and already have your Christmas decorations up? I'm guilty to a degree. My house is decorated on the inside, but the Christmas tree hasn't been selected/purchased and the outside lights aren't up just yet.

This season I'm crushing on wreaths and garland made from this beauty...

{via}

Magnolia leaves! 

We have a Jewel Magnolia in our front flower bed and it's my favorite. The blooms are so fragrant and quite possibly one of the yummiest scents. The leaves are rich green and the underneath are velvety brown.

I spent the weekend searching high and low for an affordable version of this magnolia goodness. Sadly, I came up empty handed. When I turned my search to the web, I came up with several options but none were in my price range. Oh well, it gives me something to stalk in the after Christmas sales!

Here are some I'll keep my eye on...

{24" White Faux Tulip Magnolia Bud Wreath}

{Jackson & Perkins}

{houzz}

{Pottery Barn}

{Pottery Barn}

Here's an interesting fact, most magnolia products are sold live. Depending where you place them (direct or indirect light), determines how the leaves dry and what color they'll be. Then, you get to enjoy them for years to come.

So pretty and a nice alternative to traditional wreaths and garland!