The Family Tree: An Oakland Outing

For the past few years, we've bought our Christmas tree at a lot in Oakland.  We head out early on a Saturday morning to select the perfect pine and then head over to Pizzaiolo for some sweet treats and yummy coffee.  This has become a tradition that we all look forward to.  

I hope that you are also sharing many special moments with your family.  Moments that will forever mark your holiday seasons.  Happy Holidays from our family to yours!

Home Holiday Gift Guide: Cocoon Style

When it comes to buying gifts for the home, whether for yourself or others, look to vintage treasures, brassy accents, woodsy scents, cozy textiles, and big botanical books.  Here are a few of my favorite gifts for the casa!

1.  Vintage cocktail glasses to funk up the bar. 

2. A scent reminiscent of the California coastline. 

3. A black and white pillow to add contrast and focal interest to any space.  

4.  Sphere match striker to light a flame and decorate the hearth.  

5.  Textile art! 

6. Wood and brass serving spoons. 

7.  The big Book Of Palms.  (I'm hoping to find this under our tree!)

Wreath Inspiration: Part II

I had every intention of making another wreath for the holidays, but when I came across this branch at the SF Flower Market I quickly decided not to.  Laden with pinecones and cascading boughs, I immediately knew this baby would look great just as it was suspended above our massive hearth.  Using a bell garland that I picked up at my favorite vintage shop, I went ahead and hung it.  Simple steps, huge effect.  I did consider removing the crystals that live on our mantel, but decided they actually complemented the awesome branch. Holiday decorating doesn't need to cost a lot or take a lot of time.  Next week I'll show you another quick and easy way to dress your home for the season.    

Loki approves...

Gift Giving With A Purpose: Girls On Fire

This Thursday (the 10th at 7:30pm) at Brushstrokes Studios in Berkeley, a number of local artisans and vendors will be selling their wares to help raise money for Girls On Fire.  This organization empowers Kenyan women, many of whom have been victims of gender violence and dire poverty.  Through leadership camps, young women and girls are given the opportunity to travel, learn about nutrition and exercise, work as a team and, most importantly, understand and value their own self worth. I'm looking forward to this event and hope you can attend too.  It's the perfect opportunity to holiday shop with a worthwhile purpose.  

Here are few of the participating vendors:  Erica Tanov, Ginger Craftan, Ash Dry Goods, Good On Paper and Carrie Saxl. 

Wreath Inspiration

For the past three years I've made holiday wreaths to adorn our fireplace.  Each wreath a bit different from the previous one, but not any less beautiful.  This year, I'd like to put together something a little less traditional.  Here are a few that are currently inspiring me.  Take a look and stay tuned to see how mine turns out.

Images:  1./2./3./4.