Making seasons bright

For me, Christmas isn't just about one day. It's about celebrating with the most important people in your life all season long. Tonight I'm kicking it off in a big way with Stephen...

We're exchanging gifts at one of our favorite Portland eateries, Clyde Common. I cannot wait to see the look on Stephen's face when he opens his gifts!


Soon after dinner we're journeying to the magical world of Ebeneezer Scrooge. Seriously can't wait for this twist on the classic tale!

The fun starts up again tomorrow when we go to Pittock Mansion. Every year they deck the fabulous century-old halls with gorgeous decorations. I can't think of anything better to get you in the holiday spirit!

I hope you all have amazing Holiday weekends and spend it celebrating with those you love!

(photo credits here, here and here)

Sexy scarf

During these chilly winter months, I always have a scarf on hand. However, I am truly inspired by this beautiful girl's ability to transform the traditional warm coat and scarf into something iconic. Amazing.

(photo by the supremely talented Sean Flanigan)

Kiss

Kiss the Groom has a *free* service that creates a customized kissing tree for guests. I think this would make a very sweet card for anniversaries or look great framed.

What would you do with your kissing tree?

Happy Monday!

As my Monday winds down, the thing that kept me smiling all day was the spirit of the Holidays. I have all my gifts and am getting ready to wrap them; however, what makes me happiest is spreading joy to those I love (even my cats).

How are you spreading joy this season?

(Christmas kitten via LOLCats)

Luck

I feel very lucky at the moment. My life is aligning just right. To mark the occasion, I wanted to share some of my favorite quotes about luck:

"I have been extraordinarily lucky. Anyone who pretends that some kind of luck isn't involved in his success is deluding himself."
- Arthur Hailey

"The doors we open and close each day decide the lives we live."
- Flora Whittemore

'Tis the Season: Secret Santa Gifts

I am so excited for my holiday-themed weekend. My favorite plan? A secret Santa gift exchange! This kind of gift can be tricky since there's usually a price limit (mine is $20), but there's still a plethora of fun things out there!


This monogram candle ($14) from the eternally perfect Anthropologie allows you to give a personalized gift on the cheap. Love!



Perfect for the foodie in your life, this mini fondue kit ($10) is practical and full of whimsy.

I have this little lamp from IKEA and it adds the sweetest touch to my dresser. I'd pass this $9 gem on to any stylish friend.


These fingerless gloves ($14) from Gap are perfect for the man in your life who "needs" to use his iPhone, even if it is zero degrees outside.

Have a happy *holiday* weekend!

'Tis the Season: Gifts for under $50

It occurred to me while writing yesterday's post that while a great gift for under $100 is fabulous, one for under $50 is heavenly. Here are my favorites:


An experience is my favorite kind of gift to give. Who wouldn't love a gift certificate for a manicure ($35 at Dosha in Portland) or tickets to a great show like Cirque du Soleil (coming to Portland in April)?


This wooden iPod case by Vers is super sleek, made from sustainable materials and reasonably priced ($39). Up the ante by slipping in an iTunes gift card.


Give the book worm in your life something to keep them occupied all year long. Abe Books sells new and used books for as low as a mere dollar.

There may be frost on the ground, but these sweet herb garden markers by The Brick Kiln will give a little patch of sunshine to your green-thumbed friend and your wallet (they're only $6 each).

Happy gift giving all!

'Tis the Season: Gifts for under $100

If you're like me, this season makes you wish there was a tax rebate for holiday shopping. While this may be a pipe dream, it is possible to find something for everyone without maxing out your credit card. Here are some of my favorites:

These Juicy sunglasses are perfect for your lucky friend who lives in California or your hopeful friend who lives for the 2 weeks of Oregon sunshine.



The workaholic on your list can fit everything in this gorgeous Banana Republic tote and still look fabulous.


Every family has that impossible person who "doesn't need anything" for the holidays. Enter this classic platter from Custom Sepia with your family tree.


I guarantee the man in your life will love this sweater from Banana Republic. Stephen has three. Seriously.


Finally, who doesn't love a case of wine? Trader Joe's has an amazing selection with very wallet-friendly prices.

Happy Monday!

Hello lovelies! This Monday post is coming to you late, as evidence of how much I need to focus on smiling through the grind.


What better to make me momentarily forget about deadlines than this too-cute baby raccoon photograph by Sharon Montrose?

How do you take mini stress vacations?

Keeping calm

I would love a Keep Calm and Carry On poster for my cubicle. Although it was originally created by the British government in 1939 to pacify citizens during wartime, I think its message is still poignant for everyday stresses.