Little creative moments bringing more joy to this busy season. Plus an art-filled house, unique gifts, and what is new on the blog.​
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A few weeks ago I used some of my paper plate palettes to create a colorful wreath. Well, I still had more palettes waiting to be transformed, so I kept crafting and made these quirky little articulated figures. Their arms and legs can move, and in the case of the tree the trunk bends, and the cat has a long dancing tail.

I had the best time making them, and the possibilities are endless. I already want to create a few more. These ended up being the inspiration for my Christmas mantel this year. I shared the tutorial on the blog and a closer look at my mantel. You need to check it out.

Maybe that is why this holiday season feels like such a whirlwind. There are so many fun things I want to make, and not nearly enough hours in the day. That is not unusual for this time of year, but it feels especially full right now. There are so many creative things I want to make and share, and only so much time. I am still decorating the tree, still decorating the house, still getting blogs posts up, still shipping artwork, and my mom arrives this week which is always a joy. I just still haven't made the plan of what we're going to do. Oops! I am sure it will all come together. It usually doesn't.

More than anything, I want a little time to just play. To experiment. To make without a deadline. I have a feeling that kind of time may not happen until after Christmas, so I am working hard to carve out the week between Christmas and New Year’s for a creative reset. That is the plan, at least.

There's one more thing I wanted to share as it was such an inspiration to me. Emily Powell is an artist I adore. Her paintings are joyful and expressive with rich color and the sweetest touch of folk-art charm. I've taken a few of her workshops too which I love. For the past several years she has been painting her own house, room by room, and it is finally finished. She just shared a full tour and it absolutely blew me away. I had no idea she was doing this, so the reveal felt like opening a treasure. It is inspiring, beautiful, and such a testament to creativity. It really stirred up something in me I need to explore. The video tour is on her YouTube channel if you want to take a peek. The kitchen is my favorite.

That is all from me for now. Below you will find what is new on the blog this week along with a couple of gift ideas that might spark some ideas for someone in your life.

Gift Ideas I Think You’ll Love

For the artist ...​
An artist friend told me about these metallic watercolors and I think anyone who loves to paint would have the best time experimenting with them.

For the gamer ...​
Did you know there is a Nintendo Switch 2? I grew up in a Nintendo household, so when I bought a Switch a few years ago I fell in love with cozy games like Animal Crossing and Stardew Valley. They are cozy and perfect for winter nights.

For the baker​
I LOVE this rolling pin. It's a game changer. It has small caps on the ends that you can adjust based on the thickness of dough you need, which makes Christmas cookie baking so much easier. It would pair perfectly with this A Very Prairie Christmas cookbook.

For the decorator​
​This English Country House Style book is beautiful. It is full of inspiration for anyone who loves that cozy, classic look in their home.

For the organizer​
I bought a Remarkable 2 a couple of years ago and have loved it. It has become my planner, sketchbook, notebook, and journal all in one. I use it every day and highly recommend it.

On the Blog This Week

​Articulated Paper Figured for Christmas - NEW!

Create charming, articulated paper figures for Christmas using painted paper plate palettes. This easy, handmade project is fun for everyone and can be customized with simple craft supplies to create colorful, unique, and one-of-a-kind ornaments, garlands, or festive decor.

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​Easy Cranberry Pistachio Fudge - NEW!

This Cranberry Pistachio Fudge is such an easy candy recipe for the holidays. The creamy white chocolate base keeps it rich and smooth while the pistachios add crunch and natural color. Dried cranberries bring a tart contrast that keeps things interesting.

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Orange Sugar Cookies - NEW!

Bring a touch of citrus to your winter baking with these easy Orange Sugar Cookies. They have a soft texture, a gentle sweetness, and a fresh pop of orange that makes each bite feel special.

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​Homemade Peppermint Sugar Scrub​

Treat yourself or someone special with this DIY peppermint sugar scrub that’s both easy to make and incredibly effective. A natural exfoliator with moisturizing benefits, it’s ideal for glowing skin all year long. Add your own creative flair to the packaging to turn it into a heartfelt gift that’s sure to be appreciated.

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​DIY Clothespin Snowflakes​

Add a touch of handmade charm to your holiday decorations with these easy-to-make Clothespin Snowflakes. With a few simple materials (clothespins and glue) and a little creativity, you can craft unique ornaments that suit your holiday style. Perfect for tree ornaments, gift toppers, or window displays, these snowflakes are as versatile as they are beautiful.

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The holidays move fast, but I hope you find a moment or two to pause, create, and soak in the sweetness of this season. I am so grateful to be celebrating it right alongside you.