Weekend Reading 12.9.23 | Centsational Style

I changed my ways several years ago and decided to make December about slowing down and enjoying the season. It meant I had to remove the pressure of perfection and people pleasing by dramatically shortening my to do list, and it’s made all the difference. I used to send out dozens of holiday cards, deck the halls from floor to ceiling, and throw a huge house party. Now I simply decorate the tree and hang garlands, greenery, and a few twinkle lights, then I sit on my sofa with my coziest blanket sipping something warm. The switch has helped me be more present, and it gives me extra moments of quiet and solitude that allow me to rest and recharge.

In that time I’ve reclaimed, I feel gratitude for everything in my life, my health, my family, my friends, and the warm home I live in. I also find myself thinking about the new year and the changes that are coming. Our youngest is graduating and headed off to college so we will be official empty nesters. We plan on spending more time in Florida fixing up our existing home and purchasing another fixer upper in the same neighborhood to renovate and rent. I want to take swing dance lessons and travel more, I’ve already booked a flight to Switzerland in April. I feel the shift that is coming soon and it feels really exciting. 🙂

Favorite links from the week:

This restored brick home has beautiful architectural millwork.

This dramatic kitchen remodel has the loveliest traditional elements.

Lots of blue and oh so breezy: the 2024 HGTV Dream House in Florida.

Pinterest predicts the trends for 2024.

It’s been a long time since I liked Pantone’s pick for Color of the Year.

Woah so creative: a floating Christmas tree.

What a great idea for decorating windows with sketched gingerbread houses.

Snow day recipes for warming your belly on the coldest winter days.

The history of drinking eggnog at Christmastime.

11 practices of highly successful people.

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If you’re still looking for gift ideas I have assembled a few on the Holiday 2023 page.