Country Sampler Farmhouse Style

Growing up in the ‘70s and ‘80s in the Chicagoland area, we had some immense snowfalls. You could always count on at least one or two snow days off from school. That meant building huge snow forts, sledding on the old toboggan run and coming home to a cozy, decorated home to warm up. My mom loved to decorate (and redecorate when the mood hit her). My childhood home had a very country vibe (it was the ‘80s after all). We had a plaid checked sofa, braided rugs, wooden candleholders, oil lamps and wallpaper geese marching across the top of our kitchen walls. During the holidays, the outsides boasted bright red bows and greenery swagged over the front porch railing. When we were very young, we had a fake tree…

FIRST DAY HIKES First Day Hikes is an idea that has caught hold in state parks to encourage beginning the new year outdoors, from taking an easy walk to going on a strenuous adventure. Find a Jan. 1 event that suits your preferred location. https://www.stateparks.org/special-programs/first-day-hikes DINING DELIGHT If you're planning a few parties this time of year—and who isn't?—setting a pretty table is definitely part of the fun. Check out Lori's tablescapes, which she designs in a formal yet unstuffy style. Whether you're arranging for all the leaves to be put in the table for Christmas dinner or making a simple date night memorable, this decorator from British Columbia, Canada, is sure to spark an idea. https://www.instagram.com/dining_delight DR. LORI V Dr. Lori Verderame has a doctorate in art history and…

Add a touch of handmade festive joy to your holiday decor with the North Pole Cheer Wood Painting Craft Kit from Annie's Attic. Designed for all skill levels, this kit offers an engaging, easy-to-follow crafting experience. It's perfect for you to create some new holiday decor or to have little ones try their hand at crafts. The kit includes everything you need to make all the pieces: wood blocks, a small wood box, chalk paint in classic Christmas hues, a paintbrush, sandpaper, pompoms, ribbon, a rub-on sheet and a craft stick. Step-by-step instructions will guide you through assembling a “snowball” box, painting and adding a “Today I will be jolly” sentiment to a set of blocks, and embellishing mini gift props—no guesswork required. This kit provides a satisfying sense of…

Does sugar in the water really help cut Christmas trees last longer? The idea that adding sugar to your Christmas tree water makes it last longer is a common myth, but science says it's not particularly effective. Research from the USDA shows that sugar water doesn't improve needle retention or freshness. BOTTOM LINE Skip the sugar—just keep your tree well-hydrated and cool for the longest life. I was invited to a friend's last-minute party. I don't have time to buy a gift. What can I give the host? So you're scrambling to put together a small gift? Shop your home for some ideas. Do you have a cake mix you haven't used? Tie a big ribbon around it, print out in fancy fonts a recipe that uses a box mix…

Long before plastic baubles filled store shelves, Christmas trees glittered with delicate, hand-blown glass ornaments. Among the most iconic were Shiny Brite ornaments—brightly colored, lightweight globes that became a holiday staple in American homes during the 1940s and 1950s. Founded by Max Eckardt in the late 1930s, Shiny Brite brought affordable, American-made ornaments to the masses. During World War II, when metal was scarce, the ornaments were produced without their silver inner coating, giving them a softer, pastel appearance. Post-war, production ramped up, and these cheerful orbs—often decorated with stripes, stenciled scenes, or glittered stars—graced millions of Christmas trees. Their charm lies not only in their vintage look but in the memories they represent—family gatherings, crackling fireplaces, and holiday magic. But Shiny Brites weren't the only glass treasures. German and…

1 Woodsy Brown and Green Woodsy browns, deep greens, and soft creams create a warm, nature-inspired Christmas color palette that feels both rustic and elegant. This earthy combination brings the beauty of the forest indoors, perfect for a cozy look. Think pine garlands, wooden ornaments, burlap ribbon, and creamy knit stockings. Dark green evokes fresh evergreens, while browns add grounding warmth and creams soften the look. This palette feels peaceful and timeless—ideal for those who love a quiet, down-to-earth holiday style. 2 Fresh Pink and Pastel Green One of today's popular looks, pink and mint green offers a fresh, playful twist on traditional Christmas decor, bringing a cheerful and whimsical vibe to the holiday season. This trending color scheme blends retro charm with modern style, perfect for those who love…