Turning a house into a home is the secret to happiness of Ashley Thurman, co-author of the blog Cherished Bliss. While she says motherhood has filled her life with challenges, she wouldn’t trade it for the world! Every Christmas is filled with simple joys. Her to-dos for a happy holiday season include gazing at their marvelous Christmas tree, being in comfy pajamas, drinking hot chocolate, and cuddling – lots of cuddling!
Find out how our laid-back homemaker draws holiday decorating inspiration in this interview with Balsam Hill.
BH: What inspired you to start blogging?
Ashley: I got married and had children when I was pretty young. While I always loved vintage things, I had no clue how to decorate my home. When I was pregnant with my daughter I decided I wanted to be able to make her clothes, so I taught myself how to sew. This turned into not only a love of making things for my children, but making my house as beautiful as it could be on a very small budget! I love the idea of documenting my progress and sharing with others who might not know you can have what you want with out breaking the bank!
BH: Do you have a signature ornament you use on your tree year after year?
Ashley: I don’t have one specific ornament, but I do always add an ornament that shows the year for our family. I also love ornaments that show off my children’s beautiful faces!
BH: What’s your favorite family holiday tradition?
Ashley: We always get pajamas for Christmas. I am pretty big on being in my comfy pajamas, so I love finding some for my kids that express their personality. We also always watch Charlie Brown Christmas while drinking hot cocoa. You just can’t go wrong with those two!
BH: What’s one of your fondest holiday memories?
Ashley: One of my favorite Christmas memories was my daughter’s first Christmas. She and my son put bows on their head and pretended they were presents under the tree. They were so innocent and it was just a memory I will never forget.
BH: When you decorate for the holidays, are there any guidelines you try to follow?
Ashley: I almost always change up my theme each year. I don’t do well with rules, so I certainly don’t set them for myself.
BH: What’s your favorite spot in the home to decorate for the holidays?
Ashley: The living room. I love looking at the Christmas tree with my family while drinking something warm and cuddling on the couch.
BH: Who’s your favorite holiday designer?
Ashley: To be quite honest my style changes a lot so I love gathering inspiration from many. My mom always had a great eye for the rustic look, and I like to think I get some of that from her!
BH: Any gift-wrapping tips?
Ashley: I love to wrap in plain paper and decorate with ribbons, bows, and accessories.
BH: What do you look forward to the most during the holiday season?
Ashley: Spending time with my family and sharing in the little moments. I love watching Christmas movies while drinking hot chocolate and eating popcorn. And cuddling! Lots of cuddling!
Learn more about how Ashley decorated her Balsam Hill Shasta Fir with a touch of rustic glam on Cherished Bliss.
