WHITE FOREST POTTERY: eggshell dish
Nothing welcomes in spring better than this sweet eggshell dish from White Forest Pottery. Made from porcelain and designed to replicate the uneven edges of an eggshell, this bowl is a tiny, little treasure that would fit just about anywhere in your home. Inside the bowl is a frosted glass egg from China that bounces light from every beautiful angle. $20 each. Visit www.whiteforestpottery.com for more information on these eggshell dishes or to view their entire new spring collection.
ANTIQUING: buried treasures
Nothing is better to me than spending an entire day at a flea market, or browsing from one antique shop to another. I love practical items found for little money, unique items for my home and of course, all things kitchen. Dishes, bowls, linens, silverware. You name it. Some items are for fun, some are collectibles and some are for everyday. These little napkins caught my eye with their bold, graphic design. When you find your treasures, keep them out where you can see them. And of course, don’t forget to use them. They can make eating alone a little more enjoyable. For me, eating a hot dog will never be the same again.
ORGANIZE: datebooks
Start off the year in style with these cute datebooks from The Paper Source. Made from recycled leather and 100% recycled paper. these spiral-bound datebooks are a perfect way to get (or stay) organized. Available in 4 different colors, you’re sure to find one that’s right for you. Includes occasion stickers and reference charts to keep the organizing fun. 5 1/2″ x 8″. $29.95. Available online at www.paper-source.com or in their retail stores across the country.
HOLIDAY CARDS: a simple gesture
This time of year, life can seem really crazy with trying to get everything done but taking the time to write out holiday cards is a nice gesture to make to those that matter the most in your life. And these cards are simplicity at its best. Beautifully designed with a simple message of peace, these festive cards would be a welcome addition to anyone’s mailbox. And if it seems like writing out handwritten cards is too much effort, just remember how nice it feels when there’s one in your mailbox. Visit www.paper-source.com or their retail stores across the country. $16.00/box, with coordinating envelopes.
CANDLES: scents of the season
There is no easier way to add comfort and glow to a room than with candles and my absolute favorite one for the holiday season is the Frasier Fir candle from www.thymes.com. This candle absolutely smells like a Christmas tree without any of the mess and constant need for watering. And when you live in a small space, this is a quick and easy way to feel like you actually have a tree in your space. Long-lasting and wonderfully fragrant, this is a must-have candle for the holidays. Available wherever Thymes products are sold or through their website.
VINTAGE: holiday tin boxes
I love to decorate with antiques, and anything that looks like it tells a story. I love the history behind the pieces and the fact that whatever it is just seems to add instant warmth to my space. And these sweet little holiday tin boxes are no exception. These vintage-inspired boxes are not only beautiful displayed on their own, but they make for the perfect package for any special gift this holiday season. Available in three sizes from www.cspost.com.
JOURNAL: notes of gratitude
As the season of thanks approaches, what better way to remind yourself of what’s really important than with this sweet “Gratitude Journal” from www.paper-source.com. Created by one person’s experiment with a positive psychology exercise, the journal is designed to keep your happiness at the front of your mind with thoughtful sayings and inspiring quotes scattered throughout it. Filled with plenty of space for your own daily reminders, this journal is perfect for yourself or for gift-giving. $14.95.
LEMON TOWELETTES: refreshing
These individually-wrapped towelettes from Herban Essentials are made from pure essential oil, which makes them smell great as well as act as an antibacterial. Use them to cleanse your hands or face (keyboards and phones too!). Tuck them in your car or purse for use anytime. $15.00 for package of 20. Visit www.herbanessentials.com for more details.
FLOWERS: my favorite thing
One of the nicest, and easiest things you can do for yourself is to brighten your day with fresh flowers. And there’s no reason you can’t, or shouldn’t, buy them for yourself…or pick them right from your own garden. I love one-color flowers, in any season, simply displayed in a white vase or an old mason jar. It’s a simple, classic look that works with any flower.
RECIPE CARDS: for the kitchen
Here’s a great place to write down some of your favorite culinary notes. These charming index cards are perfect for keeping your favorite recipes easy to access and organized. The cards are double-sided and provide lots of space for ingredients and instructions. Pair with an old vintage recipe box for safe keeping. Package of 20, 4″ x 6″ recipe cards. Price: $6.95. Available online at www.paper-source.com or in their retail stores across the country.




