December 2008

Between friends

As we were putting the finishing touches on this issue, I glanced across the pinned-up stories and remembered again why I love December issues. It's not just the rooms, the recipes, and festive ideas-- even though those are the things we're famous for. Somehow, if we're lucky and good, we also bring you something of even more value: the joy of the season, as reflected in real lives and homes.

Get the Very Best Christmas Cookies at BHG.com!

Spritz, ginger, thumbprint, shortbread... we have the best recipes for everyone's favorites. Whether you're a cookie queen or rarely venture beyond slice-and-bake, we'll inspire you to whip up tasty new Christmas traditions. BHG.com/christmascookies

Make It Merry

Don't have a lot of time to set a festive mood? Try these quick ideas to get in the holiday spirit.

All About Color

Candlelight colors cast a flattering glow, wrapping rooms in warmth and ambience

On the Rise

STYLEMAKER

"I tell people to decorate for the season instead of a specific holiday. Wreaths are common in winter, but the idea of layering and hanging them like a tassel is fresh."

Color Them Happy

Zesty colors and simple, unexpected touches brighten the holiday decorating for this creative family.

A Bright Future

Long winters don't stand a chance against this family's holiday spirit and light-filled living spaces.

Icy Hot

Bright flowers, twigs, and berries suspended in sparkling ice make naturally beautiful luminarias.

House Calls with Stephen Saint-Onge

Expecting holiday guests? Make a lovely retreat for family and friends with these easy tricks.

Setting Pretty

This year, dress up the dishes you already have with a few fun, affordable holiday extras.

LIGHT SWITCH

Green expert Danny Seo shares how changing out your holiday lights can change up your energy bill.

"Decorate your tree with cookie ornaments and strings of popcorn and berries that you can later feed to the birds or compost in your garden...

OUTSIDE THE BOX

ALL IS BRIGHT

The Gift of Order

These easy-to-assemble gifts are more than they appear-- each one also offers a way to stay organized during the holidays.

It's better to Give

IT'S THE THOUGHT THAT COUNTS, SO WE'VE DONE THE THINKING (AND THE HUNTING) FOR YOU WITH THESE 40-PLUS DELIGHT-INSPIRING SELECTIONS. ALL YOU NEED TO DO IS GRAB YOUR LIST AND START CHECKING IT OFF. HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Tag Team

Inexpensive craft supplies, plus free designs you can download, are the star players in this lineup of easy-to-make gift tags.

The Family Tree

This year, head to a farm to cut your own tree. You'll fill up on fun and fresh air.

Let It Shine

A CONNECTICUT FARMHOUSE SPARKLES FOR THE HOLIDAYS WITH SIMPLE-TO-MAKE TRIMMINGS. THEY'RE SO PRETTY, IT'S TEMPTING TO LEAVE THEM UP YEAR-ROUND.

Snow Glow

What matters most

HOLIDAY CHEER WITHOUT THE FRENZY? THIS FAMILY DOES IT BY LETTING A FEW FAVORITE TRADITIONS RISE TO THE TOP.

Just Imagine

Kids may be dazzled by the lights and sounds of the holiday's hottest items, but it's the simple toys that spark youthful creativity the most.

Letter Perfect

Make your family's holiday letter a must-read this year.

I Did It!