We've got a lot to talk about today so pour yourself something cozy and settle in. ​
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I’ve been working on a few fun things and couldn’t wait to catch up with you. You might remember that last year I used some of my paper plate palettes to create doves for a garland and for ornaments on my tree. I use paper plates as palettes when I paint, and once they’re covered in swirls of color, I can never bring myself to toss them. So I save them and look for ways to give them new life.

The dove garland and ornaments were such a favorite that I decided to use my palettes again this year to create a couple of new projects. The first one just went live on the blog today. I hope you’ll take a look. It’s not in its final spot yet, but I already love it where it landed, and it feels festive without being overly tied to Christmas. I think it will live in my studio long after the season wraps up.

I hope to share the second palette project after Thanksgiving. It’s fun, cheerful, a little quirky, and exactly the kind of thing that makes my creative heart happy.

On a completely different note, I finally got my record player set up and I am loving it. It’s bluetooth, which feels like magic, so I picked up this speaker to go with it. Vintage meets modern. I'm amazing at how well it works. Now I’m on the hunt for a vintage table so I can give the whole setup a proper home. I also ordered the Wicked and Wicked: For Good vinyls because I couldn’t help myself. And yes, I saw the new Wicked movie. Twice. What a gift these films have been. Loved them both!

And now onto even more exciting things. Be sure to scroll to the end to see what's new on the blog this week!

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Important Holiday Art Sale Update

As for my Holiday Art Sale, we’re nearing the finish line, sort of. Today and Tuesday I’m uploading the final batch of wreaths and trees, along with about eight traditional oil paintings. If any of these are on your wish list, this is your moment. I’m also working on my Bottle Brush Tree Oil Painting Ornaments. I have thirty painted so far, aiming for forty, and I’m waiting for them to dry. I’m hoping they’ll be available during the first and second week of December. I’ll share the exact date soon because I know many of you are looking forward to them. You can find my shop here.

I may also squeeze in a few more larger wreaths since they were so popular. And if time allows, I have a long list of other pieces I’d love to paint. We’ll see where the days take me. Again, because I can't say it enough, thank you for being here and for supporting my art. I’m endlessly grateful.

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A Few Treasures Worth Sharing

• 1820 Candle Co makes the most incredible candles. Pinon Pine is my favorite this time of year, but they just released a new scent called Tree Cutting and it’s wonderful.
• I picked up one of these neck lights and it has been such a help. My mom uses one for knitting. It’s perfect for evenings on the couch when I need extra light without turning on the big lamps.
• I also refilled my Battery Daddy and it brought me more joy than I care to admit. If you’ve ever had to hunt for batteries, this thing will change your life.
• Speaking of batteries, I’ve tried so many mini wire fairy lights over the years. I even tested a couple new ones this season, hoping to find a good deal. They all promise that warm white glow we love, but they never quite deliver. So I always end up returning to these. They cost a little more, but the light is exactly what I want warm, cozy, and nostalgic.
• And these hoodies continue to be a favorite. They’re affordable, cozy, and perfect for home days. I size up because I like a little extra room.

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New on the Blog this Week

​Paper Plate Palette Wreath​

If you are looking for a creative holiday craft that makes a big visual impact, this Paper Plate Palette Wreath is the perfect project. Paint palettes or painted papers are cut and shaped into layered leaves that wrap around a foam wreath form, creating a unique, colorful, and vibrant design. The finished piece is bright, festive, and one of a kind.

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​Non-Alcoholic Sangria for Christmas​

If you want a festive drink without alcohol, this Non-Alcoholic Sangria is an easy solution for your winter celebrations. The color is stunning and the combination of fruit and spice makes it something guests are always curious about.

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​Polar Bear Paws ​

If you are looking for an easy homemade candy that feels decadent these Polar Bear Paws (Caramel Cashew Clusters) check every box. The combination of cashews and caramel gives each cluster a chewy texture with just the right amount of crunch. White chocolate ties everything together and makes each piece look snowy and festive for the holidays.

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​Cranberry Marble Loaf​

This easy Cranberry Marble Loaf Cake is proof that delicious doesn’t have to be complicated. With its moist texture, cranberry flavor, and pretty marbled pattern, it’s a wonderful choice for entertaining. It’s easy, impressive, and just right for fall or winter gatherings.

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​Gingerbread Chex Mix​

Make your holiday gatherings extra special with this Gingerbread Chex Mix. This delightful recipe combines classic gingerbread flavors with the crunch of Chex, pretzels, and gingerbread cookies, all drizzled with white chocolate. It’s perfect for gifting, party snacks, or enjoying during holiday movie marathons!

More charming, festive, and handmade ideas...

• ​Easy Clay Christmas Ornaments​
• ​Adorable Bottle Brush Tree Stirrers​
• ​Peppermint White Chocolate Chex Mix​
• ​Gingerbread Napkin Rings​
• ​Vintage Glass Ornament Wreath​
• ​Pistachio Cranberry White Chocolate Candy​

I hope all of that is enough to keep you busy until next Saturday. Sending warm holiday cheer from my home to yours, and as always, thank you for being here. Chat then.