As the Christmas toy catalogs have come rolling in, my children have gotten busy with scissors and glue — cutting and pasting to create larger-than-life wish lists. They won’t get most of what they’ve collaged, and they know that, but there’s still something exciting and anticipatory about curating a little collection of wishes. I suppose even grown-ups aren’t immune :) In that spirit, I’ve pulled together a few items that would go on my own collage this year. Here’s hoping you might find something that would appeal to your sister, mom, mother-in-law, or friend, too. I’ve also rounded them all up here, if helpful! On my wish list: — A Jess Ray tee | I reach for a graphic tee most days in the summer and it would be fun to rep one of my favorite artists, especially around her hometown of Raleigh – I’m sure I’d run into no shortage of fellow fans! (I also highly recommend Walk in Love tees – I’ve snagged a few last designs as they prepare to close up shop later this year!) — Washable silk skirt | I have seen so many women rocking this or a similar midi number lately and they always look chic. I’m eyeing the “wine tasting red” color. — A Five-Year Journal | With time slipping by and kids who change so rapidly, I think this journal would be a lovely, simple way to remember our lovely, simple days. — Textured gold heart earrings | If the track record of my other Julie Vos earrings is any indication, these beauties would get a lot of wear. (I wear the small pearls daily!) — An anthology of poetry (or this one) | I’d keep either one on my bedside table and slice off a poem to savor each evening. — A family hymnal | I researched many options to find

How do gifts work in your families of origin these days? For several years, on both sides, we’ve moved to picking names for siblings. A few years ago, we incorporated John’s parents into the picks on the Thomas side. This year, for my family, we’re forgoing sibling gifts and instead getting together and going out for a nice dinner. (We’ll still gift individually to my parents.) I don’t know if we’ll do it every year, but it’s a fun experiment! Even though I’m giving (and receiving!) fewer gifts this year, I still thought it would be fun to share a few things on my personal wish list while Black Friday Cyber Monday sales are still in full swing. As in the kids’ guide, I’ve listed a few tried-and-true favorites below, as well. On my wish list: — A new set of mixing bowls | The glass set of 7 bowls we took with us when we moved to North Carolina is down to three. This pretty set would be even better for all the little bakers joining me in the kitchen these days.— A wool coat in a punchy color | I wear my down parka daily in the winter, but it would be lovely to have a dressier option to mix in. I have looked at these beauties for YEARS without pulling the trigger.— A tennis dress | John and I have rearranged appointments on Fridays to play together a few times, and I foresee more matches in our future now that June is taking lessons. The green is gorgeous!— A soft, chunky sweater | Again in the green. This one is a splurge, but I seem to have reached the season of my life where I’d rather buy one sweater every few years and make it an especially good