Birds of a Feather

What a wonderful evening we had.  Although temperatures dropped to -31C (-24F) with a wind chill making it feel like -40 (which is just too cold whether its C or F) we had a lovely evening filled with laughter and reminiscing.  My parents and cousin were over for the evening and it was a fun, warm filled evening.

I had found this little leftover bird when I was decorating for Christmas and I immediately knew I wanted to use him after Christmas for my table.  So, this is what one little leftover bird inspired.

I started with a simple white tablecloth with a delicate design.  I picked this up at Wal-Mart on clearance since I needed a new one that would fit my table when it was fully opened up.

I added a decorative bird house that my mom gave to me a few years ago.  I usually have it in our porch but thought it would enjoy being the center of attention for once.

I added some winter branches that I borrowed from a winter arrangement I made before Christmas.  A few branches from each arrangement and you couldn't even tell the difference.

Then I added my "inspiration bird" to the birdhouse.  My little leftover bird now had a home.

I added my bright red cardinal which my mom gave me for Christmas and adorned our tree top. (I also had a beautiful white bird I was going to use that adorned the top of our second tree but hubby had already packed it up and sealed the box.  I was a little disappointed but he was just being helpful so what could I say.)

Packed away in my box of decorating flowers I knew I had some small birds from a wreath project I did a few years ago.

They were the perfect addition in between the branches.

Joining the mix of birds was my daughters blue jay which she received for Christmas this year.  She loves blue jays the way I love cardinals.

Now my leftover bird not only has a home but some friends.

I fell in love with this salt and pepper shaker when I first saw it and when found it under the Christmas tree I was thrilled.

And finally the table.  I kept it fairly simple.  I did get to use my new cutlery that my son gave me for Christmas.

And the napkins my mom made me for Thanksgiving.  I love the trim around the edge.

So as we gathered and visited one of our topics of conversation was the similarity traits in family, even to the 2nd and 3rd generations.  We truly are "birds of a feather" :)

I am joining Marty at "A Stroll Thru Life" for Tabletop Tuesday

I am also joining Susan at "Between Naps on the Porch" for Tablescape Thursday