Love in Every Corner: Affordable Valentine’s Day Decor to Cozy Up Your Home

Valentine’s Day has always been about the little things for me—like heart-shaped dishes and cozy decor that make home feel extra loved. 🩷 I’ve rounded up some of my favorite finds and linked them on my LTK to share with you.

What’s one small thing that makes this season feel special to you?

6 Cozy Hobbies to Nourish Your Soul This Year

The start of a new year feels like opening a blank journal—full of possibility and promise. It’s a chance to slow down, reflect, and add a little more joy to your days. For many of us, life gets so busy that we forget to make space for the things that truly fill our hearts. That’s why I’ve rounded up six cozy hobbies that aren’t just fun—they’re soul-soothing, creative, and perfect for turning your home into a sanctuary.

1. Embroidery or Cross-Stitch

There’s something almost meditative about the rhythm of needle and thread. Whether you’re stitching a sweet message, a floral design, or a simple monogram, embroidery lets you create something uniquely yours. Plus, every time you see your finished piece, it’s a little reminder of the love and care you poured into it.

2. Bread Baking

Baking bread is more than just cooking—it’s a warm embrace for your home. The smell of dough rising and the joy of slicing into a fresh loaf can make even the coldest days feel cozy. Whether you try sourdough or stick to a classic, baking bread is an act of love—for yourself and those you share it with.

3. Flower Pressing

Pressed flowers are tiny time capsules of beauty. Whether it’s a bloom from your garden or a wildflower you found on a walk, pressing flowers helps you hold on to nature’s magic. Turn them into bookmarks, art, or cards to remind you of those small, beautiful moments.

4. Vintage Thrifting

Almost my entire home is made up of vintage thrifted finds, and there’s so much joy in the process of finding those treasures. I visit local thrift stores almost weekly, keeping an eye out for unique decor and furniture. I’ve even made it a habit to shop off-season, grabbing items for holidays months in advance—because there’s nothing better than unpacking the perfect thrifted Christmas decor when December rolls around. Thrifting isn’t just a hobby; it’s a way to create a home that tells a story.

5. Candle Making

Imagine creating a candle with a scent that instantly soothes you—a soft lavender for quiet evenings or warm cinnamon for cozy mornings. Candle making is a hobby that fills your home with light and warmth, but it also gives you moments of creativity and calm in the process.

6. DIY Furniture Flipping

When I first moved out on my own, I didn’t have much money for furniture. Instead of buying new, I’d scour my neighborhood for pieces that others had thrown away—tables, chairs, and dressers with scuffs and scratches but so much potential. I would paint or stain them, giving each piece a new life and a place in my home. That experience taught me how beautiful transformation can be. Furniture flipping is more than a hobby; it’s about seeing beauty where others might not and creating something meaningful with your own hands.

In the hustle and bustle of life, it’s easy to lose sight of the things that bring us peace. But hobbies aren’t just about filling time—they’re about filling your heart. Whether you’re baking bread, pressing flowers, thrifting vintage treasures, or flipping furniture, each moment you spend on these simple joys is a moment spent on you.

So, which one of these hobbies feels like the right fit for your year ahead? Let me know in the comments, and let’s make this year one that’s full of warmth, creativity, and love.

Intentional Beginnings: Crafting a Joyful New Year

Happy New Year, friends! Can you believe it's already January 1st? A new year always feels like a blank canvas—full of possibilities, fresh opportunities, and the perfect chance to start anew. Whether you’re the kind of person who loves resolutions or you prefer to take things one day at a time, the start of a new year offers something special for everyone.

Reflecting on the Past Year

Before jumping into new goals, I like to take a moment to reflect on the past year. What went well? What lessons did I learn? What can I leave behind as I step into this new season? These questions help me to approach the future with clarity and purpose.

Personally, 2024 taught me the value of slowing down and finding joy in the simple things. Whether it was cozying up with a good book, creating a seasonal DIY project, or spending time in my garden, I learned to savor the small moments. What lessons did last year bring for you?

Setting Intentions, Not Perfection

This year, I’m focusing on intentional living. Instead of striving for perfection or packing my calendar with endless to-dos, I want to create space for what truly matters: family, creativity, and connection.

Here are a few of my intentions for 2025:

• Cultivate a cozy and welcoming home: I’ll continue sharing affordable decor finds, DIY projects, and ways to make even small spaces feel magical.
• Spend more time outdoors: Gardening brings me so much peace, and I’m excited to grow new plants and experiment with fresh ideas.
• Embrace simplicity: Whether it’s through decluttering, simplifying routines, or saying "no" to unnecessary commitments, I’m ready to focus on what truly brings joy.

Inspiration for Your New Year

If you’re looking for ways to start your year on a positive note, here are some simple ideas:

• Create a vision board: Gather magazines, print photos, or use a digital app to design a board that reflects your hopes and dreams for the year.
• Start a gratitude journal: Write down one thing you’re grateful for every day. It’s a small habit that can make a big difference.
• Tackle a small project: Whether it’s organizing a drawer or adding a cozy touch to your living space, accomplishing something tangible can be so motivating.

Cheers to 2025!

No matter how you choose to begin this year, remember that progress is more important than perfection. Let’s celebrate every little win and enjoy the journey along the way. I’m so grateful to have this community to share ideas, inspiration, and encouragement with. Here’s to a year filled with creativity, growth, and cozy moments!

What are your hopes or intentions for the new year? I’d love to hear them in the comments or connect with you over on Instagram @songtosingblog.

Happy New Year, Kari Anne

Winter home finds that I'm loving

 

Cozy up your home this winter with these beautiful finds! From plaid pillows to rustic accents, everything you need for a warm, inviting space is linked in my LTK. Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram for more winter decor inspiration!

Ring in the New Year with These 4 Crowd-Pleasing Appetizers

New Year’s Eve is just around the corner, and if you’re like me, you’re already planning your menu. Whether you’re hosting a big bash or having a cozy night in with family and friends, appetizers are the real MVP of the evening. They’re easy to share, fun to eat, and let’s be honest—they pair perfectly with a glass of bubbly!

I’ve rounded up four of my favorite appetizer recipes that are as delicious as they are simple. Each one is a guaranteed hit, leaving your guests happy and well-fed as you count down to midnight.

1. Bacon-Wrapped Dates

Sweet, salty, and utterly addictive, these bacon-wrapped dates are a must-have. They’re so easy to make, and they’ll disappear in seconds.

Ingredients:

20 pitted Medjool dates

10 slices of bacon, halved

Optional: 20 almonds or cubes of cheese for stuffing

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Stuff each date with an almond or a small piece of cheese (optional).

Wrap each date in half a slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick.

Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy.

Serve warm and watch them vanish!

2. Caprese Skewers

These are as festive as they are fresh! The red, white, and green colors make them feel extra special for the occasion.

Ingredients:

Cherry tomatoes

Fresh mozzarella balls

Fresh basil leaves

Balsamic glaze

Toothpicks or small skewers

Instructions:

Assemble each skewer with a cherry tomato, a basil leaf, and a mozzarella ball.

Drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving.

Arrange on a platter and enjoy the refreshing burst of flavor in every bite.

3. Mini Spinach and Artichoke Dip Cups

These bite-sized versions of everyone’s favorite dip are perfect for mingling and snacking.

Ingredients:

1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained

1 cup canned artichoke hearts, chopped

1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup sour cream

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella

1 package of mini phyllo cups (found in the freezer aisle)

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan, and mozzarella.

Spoon the mixture into the phyllo cups.

Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the cups are golden.

Serve warm for maximum cheesy goodness.

4. Everything Bagel Pigs in a Blanket

A classic with a modern twist—these are always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

1 package of mini cocktail sausages

1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed

1 egg, beaten

Everything bagel seasoning

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Roll out the puff pastry and cut it into small strips.

Wrap each cocktail sausage in a strip of puff pastry.

Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning.

Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Serve with mustard or your favorite dipping sauce.

New Year’s Eve is all about celebrating—the end of one chapter and the start of another. These appetizers are simple, delicious, and guaranteed to make your night extra special. Plus, they’re perfect for anyone who wants to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the people they love. Cheers to a fantastic year ahead!

Let me know which appetizer you’re excited to try. Or better yet, share your own go-to recipes in the comments. Happy New Year!