Well, how are you doing? We are officially in the final days. Me? About how you might expect. A lovely mix of cheer and mild panic. Ha. On top of everything else, one of my cats needs to have a tooth removed and as a result currently has a golf ball sized bump on her head, so we are managing over here.

I am still working on my tree, I need to buy a few more gifts, presents need to be wrapped, and cookies need to be baked. And somewhere in the middle of all of that, I am also trying to remember that Christmas movies should be watched, time should be spent crafting and creating, cocktails and cocoa should be enjoyed, and at least one evening needs to be set aside for driving around and looking at Christmas lights. We must make room for the magic, right?

I still have about five or six new blog posts in the works that I plan to share over the next couple of weeks. I realize a few of them may land a little late for this season, but maybe they can be tucked away for next year. As I mentioned in an email a couple of months ago, things always seem to feel either too early or too late. In the meantime, there were a few wonderful new posts on the blog this past week. As always, I have shared a preview of everything below to make it easy to find.

So here we are, right in the middle of it all. The lists, the lights, the little worries, and the good kind of chaos. I am trying to remind myself that this season does not have to be perfect to be wonderful.
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Final Holiday Art Drop on Monday

I will be adding the final art pieces to my shop on Monday, December 15th at 2:00 pm EST. This release includes the final lot of Bottle Brush Tree ornaments. I just love these so much.

I also have a small group of reindeer paintings. The reindeer are brand new, and I had so much fun creating them. They have such sweet personalities.While I am keeping a handful for gifts and personal keepsakes, I do have a few available since many of you asked. Most are 4 x 6 in size, with three slightly larger pieces that are 8 x 6. There are also still a small number of traditional oil paintings available in the shop.

At this time, Thursday, December 18th is the final day I can ship for Christmas delivery, so please plan accordingly. (Though I’m hoping to have everything in the mail by Wednesday.) And truly, thank you so much for your support this holiday season. Every order has meant more to me than I can say. Shop at michaelwurmjr.com​

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Gift Ideas I Think You’ll Love

I know time is running out for ordering gifts online, but I wanted to share a few more ideas in case you are still looking for something special.

For the sewer​
I actually ordered this one as a gift myself. It is such a clever catch-all container and would be perfect for any sewer or quilter. Functional, thoughtful, and something they will reach for again and again.

For the cat​
My cats are obsessed with this catnip. I recently ran out for a few days and let me tell you, they were not pleased. I just stocked up on the larger jar so that never happens again. A happy cat is always a good gift.

For the artist​
I have always wanted to try one of these glass dip pens. The colors are beautiful, and they feel like such an elegant gift without being overly expensive. I ordered the rainbow set for myself and cannot wait to use it.

For the Wicked fan​
I just discovered that you can buy the complete screenplay for the Wicked movie. This one is for the first film, but I imagine they will release another for the second. I picked one up for myself and it is such a lovely keepsake, complete with the full script and full-color stills.

For the coffee or tea drinker​
​A mug that keeps your drink exactly the temperature you want it for as long as you want. No more cold coffee sitting forgotten on the counter. Yes, please.

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​On the Blog this Week

​Glass House Christmas Ornament Collection - NEW!

A few years ago, I stumbled upon a set of four glass house ornaments at a store. I fell in love with them instantly, and into my cart they went. What I didn’t realize at the time was that those four little houses would spark a whole new holiday obsession for me. Check out my full festive collection.

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​Decorating for Christmas with Art from Friends - NEW!

Back in 2021, I began creating art again. It has been an incredible journey filled with such joy. I’ve met wonderful people, bought far too many supplies, and built friendships I treasure. What no one told me when I picked up a paintbrush again was that I would also begin filling my home with original artwork. It has become one of the most unexpected and rewarding parts of this life-giving hobby. Check out the art and how to decorate with it. ​

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​Apple Cranberry Bars - NEW!

If you enjoy desserts that feel warm and inviting, these Apple Cranberry Bars will fit right into your baking routine. The fruit layer has a bright, jewel-toned quality that makes each slice as lovely as it is flavorful.

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​Christmas Tree Cheese Ball​

Transform your favorite cheese ball into a holiday showstopper with this festive Christmas Tree Cheese Ball! With layers of savory flavors and fresh garnishes, it’s an easy yet impressive appetizer that doubles as a centerpiece. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet holiday gathering, this recipe will bring a little extra magic to the table.

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​Cherry Cheesecake Bites​

Looking for a dessert that’s easy to make but feels fancy? These Cherry Cheesecake Bites are it! With a creamy cheesecake filling, a crispy phyllo shell, and a sweet cherry topping, each bite offers a perfect mix of textures and flavors.

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​Cream Wafer Sandwich Cookies​

My favorite Christmas cookie EVER! Delightfully flaky and creamy, these Cream Wafer Sandwich Cookies are the perfect treat for the holiday season. With a buttery wafer on the outside and a smooth, sweet filling inside, they’re a must-bake for anyone who loves classic cookies.
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