Connecting with nature this season...

One of the members of our team here at Figg Street Co. recently asked me what aspects of preparing for Christmas have the most meaning for me, and what I find the most fun. I love going out to a Christmas tree farm and cutting down a real Christmas tree. We did this as a family growing up and continue the tradition today (not every year, mind you). There's something special about a real tree, not to mention the smell is so divine....

A simple walk outside at this time of year can feel magical. Walking downtown along the shopfronts and cafés can make us feel part of our community. There are the decorations, music and creativity on display in so many forms.

Talking a walk through one of the parks, along the canal, river or lake, or in the woods makes us take in the time of year it is. As the leaves fall and the flowers fade, evergreen plants and trees really sing. It's their time to receive our attention and shine.

Natural elements are so inspiring, creatives often use them in making holiday items. Pine boughs, acorns, walnuts and woodland creatures appear on cards, gift wrap, as ornaments or printed onto fabric. You'll find appetizers, cookies and cakes shaped into their likeness: penguins made of black olives, carrot and cream cheese, shortbread cut out like reindeer, and bûche de noël, sometimes even with a meringue mushroom or two.