As the year draws to a close, I find myself thinking about those of you who visit me here on the blog and how your warm comments and thoughtful conversations have kept me encouraged to stay the course on this platform. Over the last few years we’ve seen an influx of social media use and I often wondered if blogging would soon be irrelevant or obsolete. But there was always this small inner voice reminding me how I felt more of a connection with my blog readers through our shared interests and slower pace.

I’ve gathered a collection of thoughtful gift pairing ideas; when you need a little something ‘extra’ for that special someone.

This is the year my holiday crafting is a big bust. I've had practically zero free time to get my craft on...and I have to say, I'm missing it. I just returned from location scouting in Phoenix and I'm heading to Oregon this week to shoot a home for Christmas..to appear in print next year. So my fa-la-la-la-la is really lacking. I'm sure some of you can relate. There are just those years when it doesn't all come together. At least not how we envision it in our heads. ;)

To make up for it, I've found a few great crafters, bakers, and diy'ers creating lots of cheery holiday handmades. Here's a few of my favorites!

Hey there friends! How was your Thanksgiving? I hope it was spent in the company of your loved ones...and with plenty of delicious homemade food.

We took a break from our busy schedule to head up to Big Bear with our extended family. It was a great way to unplug. And the weather was absolutely amazing! Some of my highlights were: Gathering apples from an abandoned tree. Making The Man's favorite Sweet Potato Casserole. Teaching one of my sisters how to make gravy. Antique shopping with another sister...found a silver & turquoise bracelet that I love! Played rounds and rounds of Yahtzee with some serious folks. (Got a Double Yahtzee and won!) Had a much needed coffee break with my sister and brother-in-law at this place. Hit every thrift store in Big Bear..bought nothing. But still fun. Scored a giant bag of free pinecones for a craft project. And spent lots of time in front of a wood burning stove. All in all, it was the perfect holiday!

Later, this week, I'm headed to NYC with a few girlfriends to celebrate my birthday and take in the beauty of the city during the holidays. I've been looking forward to it for months. Finally, travel for pleasure! We have a long list of places to visit...unique shops, markets and antique stores...mostly locally owned, brick & mortars to support.