I am thrilled to show you the latest installment in our Small Pleasures book series. The Tiny Book of Mason Jar Recipes is perfect for your bookshelf or coffee table and is a darling look at the beloved Mason jar. I got to chat with the book’s editor, Cindy Smith Cooper, and I’m delighted to share our conversation so you …
American Girl by Williams-Sonoma Giveaway
When my granddaughter was born, I immediately started collecting American Girl dolls for her. The first was Felicity, a doll that was being retired. Felicity’s story is based in Williamsburg and the her books teach a lot of American history. Then others followed! I adore American Girl as a company and brand. American Girl dolls are household items for families …
Starting the New Year Right
Oh my goodness, it is time for New Year’s resolutions! Or maybe you have already made yours and have already broken them. Of course, the first one is to lose weight. Ok that’s over. Then, to get organized is a popular one. That will take time. But it’s doable, maybe. How about writing the date correctly before March? 2016 not …
Saying Happy New Year with “Auld Lang Syne”
Tonight’s the night to sing “Auld Lang Syne!” It is always sung in holiday movies, in Times Square, on popular TV shows, and many times at New Year’s gatherings. But what does it mean? I did a little research and found this on www.Scotland.org. In sentimental American movies, Robert Burns’ Auld Lang Syne is sung by crowds at the big …
Merry Christmas Eve
Christmas Eve — it is the most enchanting night of the year. I can only imagine how cold it was centuries ago in Bethlehem when Christ was born. A little baby born in a stable was wrapped and placed in a manger while his mother, Mary, and Joseph hovered over him. Many times in the Bible it is noted that …
How to be the Perfect Hostess
Did you know we have some expert hostesses in our midst? After reading your responses to my last etiquette post, I can only imagine how wonderful being a guest at one of your homes would be. Your thoughts on how to be a perfect hostess are too good not to share. Graciously opening your home to others is as much …
Gleaming Christmas Antiques at the Wakefield-Scearce Galleries
Guest post from the editors of Victoria. The legacy of the Wakefield-Scearce Galleries—once a renowned school for young women—is perhaps best illuminated during the holidays, when the shops are gleaming with treasures and the property’s rich history comes alive with the jubilant spirit of the season. In keeping with the Kentucky landmark’s original mission, the site remains a wellspring of knowledge …
Celebrating with a Hanukkah Tea
The editors of TeaTime Magazine have created a beautiful Hanukkah tea for their recent Teatime Holidays special edition. With this evening marking the fifth night of the Festival of Lights, I wanted to share some of the beautiful décor and delicious recipes. Get the full menu and pairings for this Hanukkah tea on the TeaTime website. From the editors of TeaTime. As the Festival of …
Your Holiday Etiquette Guide Continues
When I posted a series of etiquette tips for being the perfect guest last month, I was so impressed to see your responses. We all know that good manners are essential at any time of year. The busy holiday season—with all of its parties and occasions for entertaining—means we have more reason than usual to be on our best behavior. …
Celebrating Early with a Holiday Sale
For those of you who love our magazines, I have an early Christmas present for you. It’s time for our “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year Sale”—as we like to call it—and it features big savings (up to 50% off!) on some of our most popular holiday magazines and books, as well as special deals on subscriptions. A …