To be honest, the last thing anyone probably needs right now is a gift guide. We were inundated with them over the Christmas season, and there’s a lot of other stuff going on in the world that deserves our attention. Nevertheless, I think right now, when it is so easy to feel lost and helpless and even alone, is the perfect time to celebrate love – to seek light and to spread joy and empathy to those around us.

So today, I wanted to share that there are still those striving to place some beauty back into this world. Enter Etsy, where small business owners spend hours crafting their designs, often with a worn hand, but almost always with a full heart.

You don’t need to go to a fancy dinner to celebrate your relationships. You don’t need to buy expensive jewelry or plan grand surprises to prove to anyone that he or she is loved (though all of those are okay too). Often it just takes one worn hand, reaching for another. Sometimes tired, sometimes breaking, but always with a beating heart.

If you do decide to gift a small token of your love – or simply support those who are following their dreams, who are trying to make this world a little bit brighter, I’ve rounded up some special treasures from around the world that might be worth a look.

Ceramic Hanging Planters – to breathe some life into a home, from Kansas

Espresso Cup & Saucer – to share a morning coffee with your love, from United Kingdom

Ceramic Vase – to hold those pretty clippings, from Israel

Geometric Candle Holders – to enjoy full meals by candlelight, from Italy

Extra Large Scarf – to stay warm on these winter nights, from France

As for us? This day happens to fall on Kipling’s birthday, so we often use the occasion to celebrate all the joy she has brought into our lives. Of course, pouring a glass of wine and smothering a cracker with brie and preserves is always a nice touch too. ❤

P.S. For the reader in your life and a fun date night.

-wonderland sam

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