[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Intro Text” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Bells are very on trend this Christmas season<\/strong>. \u00a0I can’t say exactly what I think it is that is making them so popular, except they are the very definition of joy and festivity! \u00a0It is the perfect time to start thinking of how you can create a Christmas bell DIY for your own home this season.<\/p>\n From a decor view, I love the symbolism they bring into our home. \u00a0They also add some interesting texture, shape, and the traditional golds of Christmas. \u00a0Keep reading to the end and I’ll share how we created this Christmas bell DIY idea for our dining room. \u00a0It’s one of my favorite focal points in my Christmas decor!<\/p>\n Also, it is a trend that I hope stays around for a very long time! \u00a0My husband hopes so too because he is really excited to help me hang these bells up again for many years to come. ???? (A little sarcasm there…????)<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Bells-close-up-1-scaled.jpg” title_text=”Bells close up 1″ admin_label=”bell close up pic 1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”what does a bell have to do with christmas” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Bells announce the arrival of something or someone important or can be used to proclaim an event or occasion. \u00a0Interestingly enough, the use of bells can be traced back to pagan roots. \u00a0At that time, bells were used to ward off evil spirits. However, the bells were so fun to use that they eventually made their way into municipal and church use. \u00a0For example, bells would be rung in good times, such as a wedding or coronation. \u00a0At the same time, bells would toll for hard times, such as impending weather or a funeral.<\/p>\n Now, bells symbolize the announcement of the birth of Christ during the Christmas season. \u00a0For our family, that is all the reason we need to make them a focal point in our home!<\/p>\n At the same time, I think Christmas bells also symbolize welcoming a season of good-cheer, peace, memories, and loads of fun to be had, too! \u00a0I definitely had a lot of fun with the Christmas bell DIY idea that I’m sharing with you at the end of this blog post today!<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Intro Text poem intro” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n I also love that the bells remind me of one of my favorite Christmas poems, eventually turned into a Christmas hymn.<\/p>\n In 1863, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow wrote “Christmas Bells”, right in the middle of the Civil War. \u00a0The text “hate is strong and mocks the song of peace on earth, goodwill to men” certainly rang true in those dark years.<\/p>\n 158 years later, there is a lot of darkness. \u00a0Division, frustration, cultural tensions, sickness…it’s all part of our 2022 Christmas, whether we want to admit it or not.<\/p>\n Thankfully, neither the poem or the story ends there. \u00a0Let’s take a look…and if you’re very familiar with Longfellow’s work, I still think it is worth a few minutes for a re-read of these words:<\/strong><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Dining-room-straight-on-pic-1-scaled.jpg” title_text=”Dining room straight on pic 1″ admin_label=”dining room straight on pic 1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_divider _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text admin_label=”poem 1″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow<\/p>\n I heard the bells on Christmas Day [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”poem 2″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n And thought how, as the day had come, [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”poem 3″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Till ringing, singing on its way, [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”poem 4″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Then from each black, accursed mouth [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”poem 5″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n It was as if an earthquake rent [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”poem 6″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n And in despair I bowed my head; [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”poem 7″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Then pealed the bells more loud and deep: [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Dining-room-side-angle-scaled.jpg” title_text=”Dining room side angle” admin_label=”dining room side angle pic” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_divider _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text admin_label=”reflections” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n Who am I to try to add to that poem’s end? \u00a0Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s words are full\u00a0of hope for peace and goodwill. Is there anything that can possibly be better than that during the Christmas season?<\/strong><\/p>\n However, reflection leaves us wondering just how we can do our part to create peace and goodwill. \u00a0Life quickly teaches us that peace, love, and goodwill do not just happen on accident. \u00a0In fact, without intentionality and purposeful living (and loving), peace and goodwill are impossible. \u00a0It brings us to ask the question, once again, of what our role might be in creating peace and goodwill here on earth. \u00a0How can I even make a difference? \u00a0Is that even possible?<\/p>\n I’m reminded of words I have said and written many times:<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Dining-room-straight-on-pic-2-scaled.jpg” title_text=”Dining room straight on pic 2″ admin_label=”dining room straight on pic 2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”wrap up” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n I can bring goodwill and hope and peace to my circle of influence. \u00a0Right now, my immediate circle of influence is right within the walls of my home.<\/strong><\/p>\n In the famous words of Mother Teresa, “If you want to change the world, go home and love your family.” \u00a0<\/p>\n Even though I would describe my blog and social media as a home decor account, it means more to me than that. \u00a0However, there is a bigger purpose. \u00a0<\/p>\n Christmas decorating actually isn’t just for all the fuss and show and perfectly festive touches. \u00a0To me, it is much deeper. \u00a0In the creative ways God has blessed me with and the resources at my disposal, I am doing my part to bring an environment of peace and hope and goodwill to my little family.<\/p>\n At the same time, I think of it as setting the stage<\/strong>. \u00a0Even though all of those things come from the heart, our environment and what we surround ourselves with does matter and it does make a difference.<\/p>\n The mission is clear: spreading goodwill to my family.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Bells-close-up-2-scaled.jpg” title_text=”Bells close up 2″ admin_label=”bell close up pic 2″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_divider _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text admin_label=”bell DIY how do you display christmas bells\/what can you make” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n Since this poem has become somewhat of an anthem and definite Christmas inspiration for me, I decided a few years ago to make Christmas bells a focal point in my decorating too.<\/p>\n Here are a few ways that I decorate around our home with Christmas bells:<\/p>\n I decided to create my own focal point with large bells in our dining room. \u00a0As promised, I will give you a quick tutorial on this DIY bell garland that Robb helped me make. \u00a0Admittedly, there was a moment (or two) where goodwill was doubtful.<\/strong> ???? But he figured out how to get it to stay and all has stayed peaceful.<\/p>\n However, Robb says that if those bells come crashing down in the night, “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day” would turn into “Do You Hear What I Hear?” ???????? Thankfully, they have stayed put and are making this whole space feel so festive!<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”bell DIY steps 1-4″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n First, I picked these bells up at Hobby Lobby back in October. \u00a0However, I’m not sure if they are still in stock. \u00a0For 50% off, however, it’s worth checking online and calling around the stores in your area!<\/p>\n Also, you can find some vintage-inspired ones online HERE<\/a> and HERE.\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n Tip: measure your space\u00a0and choose the bells in the right size and scale for the feature you are creating.<\/i><\/p>\n Secondly, we cut a small branch and stripped it of leaves. \u00a0You could also use a curtain rod or pole of some kind. \u00a0I loved that the branch was totally free (budget-friendly decor!). \u00a0At the same time, I love the juxtaposition of the crooked, rustic branch and the more formal look of the bells.\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n Third, I strung the bells in a way that would feel somewhat random but still be balanced visually.<\/strong>\u00a0 Next,\u00a0Robb wrapped twine around the middle and then it loops around the branches at each end a few times.<\/p>\n Lastly, he put one nail in each end of the cabinet, in a high spot where the small hole will never show. \u00a0I supported the branch and bells while he wrapped the twine around the nail as tightly as possible. \u00a0(This is important to hold it taut.). Next, he tied the twine to secure it.<\/p>\n I honestly wasn’t at all sure that we could get the bells to stay up without lots of nails and supports (which we didn’t want to do to this antique apothecary, of course). \u00a0Thankfully, it worked out very well because it’s one of my favorite things in our home for Christmas!<\/strong><\/p>\n The bells, the symbolism, and the reminder of hope and goodwill for each and every one of us means so much to me!<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Nail-and-twine-close-up-scaled.jpg” title_text=”Nail and twine close up” admin_label=”nail and twine close up pic” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_divider _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text admin_label=”how do you decorate with big bells” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n In addition to the ways that I mentioned that I use Christmas bells in our own here, here are a few more ways that I think would be easy and beautiful:<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”wrap up” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n We’ve talked about why Christmas bells are even part of the Christmas tradition. \u00a0History has inspired us with the purposefulness of using bells in and around our homes to celebrate the season. \u00a0Now, it’s up to you! \u00a0Whether you create a beautiful Christmas bell DIY idea, purchase some gorgeous bells ready to hang<\/a>, or add simple bells in a bowl or on a tablescape, I hope you do so with intentionality and purpose.<\/p>\n After all, if you are reading this blog post, you are probably as aware as I am that in this season of my life and my role in our family and home, I am largely responsible for creating an atmosphere and environment where peace and goodwill can thrive. \u00a0<\/strong>It would seem that if peace and goodwill can find their way into our hearts and minds at any time in the year, it would be Christmas.<\/p>\n Let the bells ring in your home and in your heart this Christmas. \u00a0At the same time, be intentional with your space. \u00a0Create an environment where peace and goodwill will ring true for you and your family!<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Dining-room-straight-on-pic-2-scaled.jpg” title_text=”Dining room straight on pic 2″ admin_label=”dining room pic” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Follow Me” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n I’d love for you to follow me on social media! \u00a0You can find my home decor inspiration on Instagram<\/strong><\/a>, Pinterest<\/a>,\u00a0<\/strong>and\u00a0Facebook<\/a>! \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Closing” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Blessings,<\/strong><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/h3>\n
What does a bell have to do with Christmas?<\/em><\/h3>\n
Why do Christians hang up bells at Christmas?<\/em><\/h3>\n
\u00a0<\/h3>\n
Why was “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day” written?<\/em><\/h3>\n
I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day: Christmas Bell DIY Idea<\/strong><\/h2>\n
I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day<\/em><\/h3>\n
Their old, familiar carols play,
and wild and sweet<\/span>
The words repeat<\/span><\/p>\nOf peace on earth, good-will to men!<\/strong><\/h3>\n
The belfries of all Christendom
Had rolled along<\/span>
The unbroken song<\/span><\/p>\nOf peace on earth, good-will to men!<\/strong><\/h3>\n
The world revolved from night to day,
A voice, a chime,<\/span>
A chant sublime<\/span><\/p>\nOf peace on earth, good-will to men!<\/strong><\/h3>\n
The cannon thundered in the South,
And with the sound<\/span>
The carols drowned<\/span><\/p>\nOf peace on earth, good-will to men!<\/strong><\/h3>\n
The hearth-stones of a continent,
And made forlorn<\/span>
The households born<\/span><\/p>\nOf peace on earth, good-will to men!<\/strong><\/h3>\n
“There is no peace on earth,” I said;
“For hate is strong,<\/span>
And mocks the song<\/span><\/p>\nOf peace on earth, good-will to men!”<\/strong><\/h3>\n
“God is not dead, nor doth He sleep;
The Wrong shall fail,<\/span>
The Right prevail,<\/span><\/p>\nWith peace on earth, good-will to men.”<\/strong><\/h3>\n
What is the meaning of “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day”?<\/em><\/h3>\n
Simple and Easy Christmas Bell DIY Idea<\/strong><\/h2>\n
How do you display Christmas bells?<\/em><\/h3>\n
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What can you make with Christmas bells?<\/em><\/h3>\n
Step One: Christmas Bell DIY Idea<\/em><\/h3>\n
Step Two: Christmas Bell DIY Idea<\/em><\/h3>\n
Step Three: Christmas Bell DIY Idea<\/em><\/h3>\n
Step Four: Christmas Bell DIY Idea<\/em><\/h3>\n
How do you decorate\u00a0with big bells? (In addition to a Christmas bell DIY idea, of course!)<\/i><\/h3>\n
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Are you ready to create your own Christmas bell DIY idea?<\/em><\/h3>\n
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