HOORAY! THE HOLIDAY SEASON IS HERE!
Can you believe it? November has arrived. With it comes the warm and busy energy of the holidays. I’m excited to dive into the season, though this year looks a little different. Instead of spending every spare minute decorating and baking, much of my time will go toward decluttering, packing boxes and fixing things so we can put a “house for sale” sign in the yard. Yes — we are moving.
I NEED A HOLIDAY MIRACLE!
We’re relocating three hours away to another state to start a church and begin a new chapter. We’re genuinely excited, even though moving is not my favorite thing. Could we have picked a worse time to sell? The middle of winter, with a slow housing market and a long to-do list of projects still waiting on our home? It’s intimidating. We could definitely use a miracle.
A NEW ADVENTURE
Leaving Portland after so many years is a big change. While I love my kitchen — the only one I’ve ever designed myself — I’m looking forward to downsizing and simplifying. Paring down this large household and starting fresh feels like a positive challenge, and I can’t wait to share the process of simplifying and beginning anew with you.
EASTER EGGS IN MY LIVING ROOM
This weekend I started some pre-holiday, pre-moving cleaning. I went into the living room with a vacuum and a dust rag and found remnants of other seasons: Christmas pine needles behind a chair and even a plastic Easter egg tucked behind a stack of books (yes—I ate the jelly beans). It was a clear sign it was time for a thorough clean. For me, getting the house tidy is the first step toward feeling ready for the holidays. I can’t bring out decorations until things are at least somewhat in order.
CREATE BEAUTY IN THE SEASON
So hang on, friends. Even as I pull out moving boxes, I’m committed to making this a memorable holiday for my family. We don’t always have ideal circumstances for the “perfect” holiday, but that won’t stop us. I have plenty of simple, creative ideas to keep the season joyful even when time and money are limited.
Despite the economy, uncertainties, and life transitions, we can still create beauty in this season. Things don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. Our holiday will be simple, creative and authentic — full of heart rather than flawless details.
I’m already working on holiday plans at my kitchen table and ready to jump into the festivities. Are you ready to get going?
Let the holidays begin!
NEW FOR THE HOLIDAYS! Starting this week I’ll feature a special, hand-picked HOLIDAY LINKY LOVE post every Friday. If you publish a holiday post during the week, it might be featured. I’ll be scouring blogs for the best inspiration. If you think a post is worthy, feel free to email a link by Thursday night — please put HOLIDAY LINKY LOVE in the subject line.
BLOG NEWS:
ANNOUNCING A GREAT GIVEAWAY TOMORROW…come back Tuesday for all the details!
I’m thrilled to be embarking on new blogging adventures and collaborations with a variety of sites and businesses. More details will be shared soon. I’m excited to welcome new partners this month and to work together on holiday projects and inspiration. Their support will help bring fresh ideas your way.
- I’m honored to be teamed up with the wonderful women of Moms Unite for the holidays. Thank you for your support and encouragement.
- We’re also pleased to unveil a curated HOLIDAY SHOPPING GUIDE for thoughtful gift ideas and seasonal inspiration — take a look for ideas to simplify and delight this season.
