December at Acorn Cottage: The Courtyard

 As 2026 begins to wind down, I thought it fitting to share the holiday decorations in the courtyard just beyond the rear of Acorn Cottage. This outdoor space becomes especially magical in December, dressed for the season in a classic palette of greens, reds, and crisp whites.

Each year, J and I continue our favorite tradition of purchasing a Fraser fir tree for the courtyard. Wrapped simply in white lights, it glows softly against the winter evenings, casting a warm and inviting sparkle that feels almost storybook. There is something about twinkling lights outdoors in December that feels timeless and comforting—quietly magical in the best possible way.

Touches of red velvet add richness throughout the space. Oversized bows and fresh green garlands adorn the vintage clock face that hangs proudly on the fence, giving it a festive new personality for the season. Even the deer get in on the holiday spirit, each one donning a red velvet bow as they stand watch over the courtyard with understated charm.

From the surrounding trees, red mercury glass orbs and gold jingle bells hang and sway, catching the light and spreading holiday cheer with every glimmer. These small details bring movement, texture, and just the right amount of sparkle to the space.

The courtyard has become one of my favorite spots to pause during the busy holiday season—a place to step outside, take in the glow, and savor the simple joys that December brings. As the year comes to a close, this little corner of Acorn Cottage feels like a perfect reflection of the season: festive, warm, and filled with quiet moments of joy. Cheers to holiday traditions and the magic of December.

The Courtyard, y'all!

It's Mardi Gras Time {Acorn Cottage: Courtyard}

 This is the rear courtyard at Acorn Cottage. It is the place where we entertain during the Mardi Gras season and during parades. A king's crown and a couple yard stakes help to add to the carnival spirit. I'll have to take some photos at night to show you the courtyard with purple, green, and gold lights.

2023 Mardi Gras posts:

Let's Get Lit | Daytime Facade | Front Porch | Mask | Courtyard |

Courtyard, y'all!

Springtime {In the Courtyard}

 I love the greens in the courtyard after a huge rain. The courtyard certainly looks lush and "happy."

Recently planted sunpatiens and white Christmas caladiums are thriving and add to the coolness of the courtyard. I cannot wait for the hundreds of caladium bulbs which were planted in mid-March to make their appearance soon.

A couple Easter egg yard stakes add to the spirit of the season.

Spring Courtyard, y'all!

Acorn Cottage {In the Garden: Courtyard}

 The summer heat and humidity is here, but I am enjoying my summer vacation. I recently snapped photos of the courtyard garden after the boxwoods were manicured. The greens are quite lush in the back garden. The ferns do so well especially with the excessive amounts of rainfall lately.

In the Garden, y'all!

It's Christmas Time {Acorn Cottage: Rear Courtyard}

 Though we do not spend a whole lot of time out back (we have plans for a massive transformation), it is fun to put touches of Christmas since you see the backyard when you walk into our home. The front door leads all the way back to the rear doors and a view of the courtyard.

We recently added a small frasier fir tree with white lights which looks spectacular at night.

Two deer purchased years ago from Ballard Design rest in front of the sugar kettle giving the backyard a Southern feel. Plaid bows decorate the necks of each deer to tie it into the ribbons used throughout the house.

At night:

2020 It's Christmas Time posts:

Acorn Cottage Facade | Chateau Lapeyre | Acorn Cottage Nightfall | Acorn Cottage Front Porch | Acorn Cottage Jingle Bells | Acorn Cottage Living Room | Acorn Cottage Sunroom | Christmas Memories: Ron and Colette | Acorn Cottage Dining Room | Acorn Cottage Den | Acorn Cottage Courtyard | 

Acorn Cottage Courtyard, y'all!

Let the Good Times Roll {Courtyard}

Amanda from Dixie Delights reminded me through her insta stories that I hadn't shared the courtyard in its Mardi Gras splendor. The courtyard, located to the rear of the house, is where lots of folks congregate when the weather is good, so pray for good weather. It is also the place where J and I set up the bar with all the fixins. It's an easy way to keep the splashing and spillage of alcohol to a minimum. On nice weather days, the courtyard is perfect for our guests to sit and visit.

2020 Mardi Gras posts:

Trellis Fence | Facade | Nighttime | Living Room | Sunroom | Den | Mardi Gras Punch
| Dining Room | Dixie Belle Visit | Fresh Flowers | Muses Shoes | Courtyard |

Courtyard, y'all!