It’s officially November, and while I’m sad to see October go, I absolutely love this month. The anticipation of the holidays is in full swing, and the world is divided. To decorate for Christmas, or not to decorate for Christmas? I could write a dissertation on this subject, but I’ll keep it simple. Let Thanksgiving be Thanksgiving and let Christmas be Christmas. They shouldn’t overlap. You should do whatever you want, but know that my house will remain autumnal until the day after Thanksgiving.

On the Menu

We are headed full steam ahead into the holiday hosting season and I personally believe it’s so important to have a few easy meals up your sleeve that nourish both your body and your soul. My Broccolini and Sausage Orecchiette does just that. The recipe is easy enough for a weeknight but feels perfectly special. Even if you’re exhausted and getting home from your third holiday event that week, I promise you will be able to make this. The sauce is creamy but still a little light and the flavors are so satisfying. You’ll be adding it to your weekly rotation in no time.

In My Glass

This time of year, the food gets heavier, and I find myself craving a lighter cocktail. Something easy to make, satisfying to drink, and light and refreshing. Enter my pear martini. It’s the perfect cocktail to pair with heavier apps and meals.

Pear Martini
1½ ounces pear vodka
1 ounce St-Germain
½ ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice

Add everything to a shaker with ice and shake for 45 seconds. Pour into a gorgeous glass and garnish with a slice of pear. Cheers!

Currently Loving

In the spirit of November being November, I’m currently obsessing over my Thanksgiving table. The colors. The sparkle. The little details. I think it’s my best table of the year, and here’s why. It doesn’t match. Everything goes together, but not in an “I bought this all from one display at one store” kind of way. It has layers to the magic, and it plays on my favorite philosophy of high/low. The Bordallo Pinheiro chargers add recognizable elegance, the DIY sugared fruit adds a touch of whimsy, and the tablecloth adds texture and color and was from TJ Maxx! I think it truly embodies the season that we’re in.

If you want to get a similar look for your Thanksgiving table, click here.

One Last Thing

The next eight weeks are going to be some of the most chaotic and intense of the year, but also some of the most special. Remember to take a deep breath, say no to events, plans, or anything that doesn’t serve you, and make room for the season you’re in! Every holiday is what we make it, and if we take the time to slow down and savor these special moments, we’ll head into 2027 feeling refreshed, with full hearts (and stomachs, LOL).

Cheers!
Xo, Maura