Favorite Things...

One of the things I love most about Thanksgiving is the idea of gathering with loved ones to share a lingering around the table kind of meal where there's no rush, where we truly catch up and appreciate the moment. It makes sense that this major feast ushers in a full month of eating, drinking and  merry making with our favorite people. Today I'm linking up with Saved by Suzy's Favorite Things Link Party to share some of my favorite things to help celebrate this season of thanks and giving. Just click on the links to find out where you can buy any of the items.

For the Kiddos:

These gorgeous monogrammed dresses, by Rarebits are a favorite of mine. I love them because they're beautifully simple and classic. Made by our dear family friends, they are handmade and often reversible and have great longevity. Neve wore her first Rarebits Dress when she was 18 months old and again the next two years with leggings: an heirloom in the making.

Rarebits also has these great monogrammed, rollneck sweaters that my kids love wearing. They are warm, well-made and great for a family Christmas card!


My friend Katie has built a great kid-driven business, KT Steppers, LLC,  creating these adorable, custom step stools for kids. Santa brought Neve this yellow one two years ago, and it still looks and functions as good as new.

For the host or hostess:

We recently bought the Keurig Special Edition Coffee System.  Although I wouldn't consider myself  a huge coffee drinker, this thing has me hooked, and drinking more coffee than I have in years. This sampler pack would be great as a hostess gift or stocking stuffer.

My husband always includes a cheese course during whatever holiday we host. Although we usually pick up our cheese at a local Italian market, I did order some from Sur La Table once as a gift for him.  Some nice cheese, a bottle of port and a marble cheeseboard would be a great gift this time of year for someone who entertains and doesn't need more 'stuff'.

Each year after visiting Santa at the mall, the kids and I head into Pottery Barn and pick up this  ornament which comes with the year engraved on it. I put their picture in it as soon as we get home. I love looking at the collection of them growing on our tree each year and am always blown away at how quickly the time has passed. 

For nesting:

Thanksgiving and Christmastime mean one of these two Yankee Candles are usually burning in my kitchen anytime we're home. Love, love, love them. Yankee Candle often has great discounts and coupons, too for both in-store and on-line purchases.

These beloved Peanuts classics have been a staple in our house, long before we ever had kids. Luckily for us, they enjoy them as much as we do. Walmart seems to have the best prices around for this collection.

This comfy looking blanket from Land's End might just make it onto my wish list. It looks perfect for enjoying  a long winter's nap.

What are your favorite things for celebrating and gift-giving?  

There are some great ideas for holiday shopping and gift-giving over at Suzy's blog, so please drop by!

Have a great day and good luck to all of you who are in preparation mode!

Erin