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Discover simple home decor ideas, style tips, and seasonal inspiration through The Curated Life…your guide to living beautifully every day.
Welcome back to The Curated Life…a cozy midweek pause filled with holiday inspiration, comforting ideas, and simple ways to make the season feel meaningful. As the days grow shorter and the weeks fill with activity, I hope this space offers a little calm, a bit of beauty, and reminders to slow down and savor the moments that matter most. I’m so happy you’re here.
1.) The Thoughtful Holiday Guide
If you like to decorate for the holidays with a theme, now is the time to decide. Some years I use a theme, and other years it’s more of a mix-and-match approach. There’s no right or wrong here, it’s a personal choice…but choosing early gives you time to plan or purchase anything you might need. Before the season is in full swing, take a look at your decorations and decide what to keep, donate, or repurpose. Clearing out what you no longer use makes it easier to see what you already have, and helps you decorate with a plan in mind. If you’re going with a theme, pull out the pieces that fit and make a short list of anything you’d like to add.
Finally, take a little time to organize. Gather everything you plan to use in one spot so it’s ready when you are. I do this every year, and it saves so much time later. Just remember…your plans don’t have to be set in stone. It’s still early, and if your theme or ideas evolve as the season unfolds, that’s perfectly fine.
2.) Words Worth Sharing
“When you feel overwhelmed, remember: a little at a time is how it gets done. One thing, one task, one moment at a time.” Found HERE.
3.) Magazine-Worthy Made Simple
A closer look at the cottage made famous in The Holiday, the now-classic Nancy Meyers Christmas film that so many of us adore. It’s my absolute favorite holiday movie, and this feature shares how to recreate that cozy, English-countryside charm in your own home. You might be surprised to learn how this storybook setting came to life, and how easy it can be to borrow a few of its most timeless ideas.
How to Get the Look
- In the bedroom: a painted iron bed, soft lamplight, and a collected-over-time mix of baskets, trays, and artwork make the space feel effortlessly authentic. Chintz lampshades and vintage details add just the right touch of romance.
- In the kitchen: open shelving filled with stacks of blue and white dishes creates instant charm. A small table and chairs in the center of the room makes the kitchen feel warm, personal, and perfectly lived-in.
- In the living room: mismatched slipcovered chairs, a colorful striped stair runner, and a long sofa overflowing with pillows set the stage for comfort. Layered fabrics, soft throws, and cozy lighting complete the “come in and stay awhile” feeling.
4.) Gather + Savor
If you ever find yourself with a little leftover pumpkin, you’re not alone. I’ve had readers mention they hate to throw it away, so I put together a few simple ideas for putting it to work. Some of them are sweet, some are savory, and all of them are delicious.
- Add to Pancake or Waffle Batter: stir a few tablespoons into your favorite mix for a subtle pumpkin flavor and extra moisture. A little cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice makes it even better.
- Blend into Smoothies: add a few tablespoons of pumpkin puree to your favorite smoothie recipe, or try adding it to this banana oatmeal smoothie recipe that OSP readers love.
- Add to Soup: blend into a pot of vegetable beef soup or chicken soup to thicken it and add warmth. It works beautifully with butternut squash or sweet potato soup too.
- Give to Your Pup: pumpkin is great for a dog’s digestion. Just a tablespoon mixed into your dog’s food is plenty…once in a while. (Always plain pumpkin, not pie filling.)
- Mix into Pasta Sauce: whisk a few tablespoons into cream sauce or mac and cheese for a subtle pumpkin flavor and lovely color.
- Freeze for Later: spoon leftover purée into an ice cube tray. Once frozen, store cubes in a freezer bag. Perfect for future baking or smoothies.
- Stir into Oatmeal: add a tablespoon or two to warm oats along with brown sugar and cinnamon for a cozy fall breakfast.
5.) THINGS WORTH MENTIONING
- What’s ahead on Sunday: I have a very special yet incredibly simple holiday craft to share. I can’t wait to show you!
- What you might have missed: I shared a collection of classic Thanksgiving ideas, and for A Sunday Well Spent, I sent the November digital calendars along with a look back at October happenings.
- Housekeeping Note: if you ever can’t see the sign up forms on my website, it’s usually an ad blocker or privacy setting on your browser. Look for the small note that says “Can’t see the form? Sign up here instead.” That link will take you right where you need to go.
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I love your The Curated Life series so much!
I love the beautiful ribbon on the Christmas tree. Can you share the source where you purchased it.
Hi Paula…I got the ribbon on Etsy. Here is the link: https://rstyle.me/+zIE1qMukVDVK-kUycVSskw (This shop has gorgeous ribbon but she sells out every year. So don’t wait!)
Ann, I am in the process of decluttering my “stuff” and to simplify my life after my husband of 52 years passed away last year.
Your blog has been a favorite of mine for many years. So as I am in the process of decluttering, just wanted you to know that your blog is a keeper as I have enjoyed your approach to life…plan and simplify.
I have used many of your recipes over the years. I just want to say, thank you for your wonderful blog.
You are welcome…and I’m sincerely sorry about your husband. 52 years together is a beautiful gift. XO
I am in love with the tree in this post. Where did you find the beautiful that is on it?
I got the ribbon on Etsy. Here is the link: https://rstyle.me/+zIE1qMukVDVK-kUycVSskw (This shop has gorgeous ribbon but she sells out every year. So don’t wait!)
Thank you so much! I love your blog. It’s so beautiful.
Christmas before Halloween….I don’t think so.
I’m a planner and a thinker. It takes me a while to figure things out, so I start early. Just trying to be helpful!
LOVE your website…..especially the English cottages this time. Thank you!
Thank you for these terrific suggestions for left over pumpkin. I really enjoy your posts.
The cottage from “The Holiday” is the home of my dreams. So cosy and romantic.
I made your chocolate chip pumpkin muffins a couple weeks ago. They were delicious!