Best of 2025 {Most Viewed Posts}

 Though I didn’t blog as regularly in 2025, I always love taking a moment to look back at the posts that resonated most with you. Revisiting these favorites feels like flipping through a well-loved scrapbook—full of moments you were especially drawn to and stories that sparked connection.

As you might guess, the most-viewed posts of the year centered around the unforgettable snowfall in New Orleans last January. It was truly an extraordinary and exciting time for New Orleanians, and sharing that rare winter magic clearly struck a chord. From there, posts highlighting my love of seasonal decorating and glimpses of my travels rounded out the list—topics that continue to bring me joy and, thankfully, seem to interest you as well.

Below is a look at the most-viewed posts of 2025. As always, thank you for following along, for reading, and for being part of this little corner of my world. I look forward to sharing more with you in 2026 and hope to see even more of you in the year ahead. Cheers!

#10: December at Acorn Cottage: Living Room

#9: December at Acorn Cottage: Facade {Nighttime}

#8: December at Acorn Cottage: A Love Letter to Shiny Brites

#7: November at Acorn Cottage: Fall Doorhanger

#6: October at Acorn Cottage: Spooky Mummies

#5: Dinner at Little Bird {Fairhope, AL}

#4: Acorn Cottage {J's Bath Redo}

#3: Classroom Theme {Think Like a Scientist}

#2: SNOLA {at Night}

#1: SNOLA 01.21.25

Check out my "Best ofs"...

 Best of 2024 | Best of 2023 |  Best of 2022 | Best of 2021 | Best of 2020| Best of 2019 |Best of 2018 | Best of 2017 |  Best of 2016 | Best of 2015 | Best of 2014 | Best of 2013 | Best of 2012 

Happy New Year, y'all!

December at Acorn Cottage: A Love Letter to Shiny Brites

 There are few Christmas decorations more iconic than Shiny Brite ornaments. Long before themed trees and curated color palettes, these sparkling glass treasures filled homes with magic, nostalgia, and unmistakable holiday cheer. For generations, Shiny Brites were the ornaments—carefully unwrapped each December and hung with intention, telling stories of Christmases past.

I’ve always had a soft spot for traditional holiday décor, so when I stumbled upon a custom wreath made with vintage Shiny Brites on Instagram, I knew it was something special. Even better, it was created by a local artist whose work immediately spoke to me.

Claire Heap of @vintageshinybrite is the talent behind these stunning creations, and she offers her work through Southern Antiques—one of my absolute favorite shops—in Laurel, Mississippi. When I saw the wreath, I didn’t hesitate. Some things are simply meant to come home with you.

The wreath I purchased is filled with vintage Shiny Brite ornaments in classic hues of red, green, and gold. It feels timeless, joyful, and wonderfully nostalgic—everything I love about Christmas. I hung it prominently in the window of our dining area, where it can be admired both inside and out. It truly anchors the space and sets the tone for the season.

My admiration for Claire’s work didn’t stop there. I reached out to her to create a custom wreath for our front door. My requests were simple: the ornaments needed to be non-breakable, and the color palette all red. Claire absolutely hit it out of the park. The finished wreath is bold, festive, and looks perfect alongside the other balls, ball garlands, and bows used throughout this season’s décor.

And because one masterpiece deserves another, I also commissioned Claire to create a custom ball ornament tree for the sunroom. Once again, she delivered beautifully. The tree adds just the right amount of sparkle and charm to a room where we spend so much time during the holidays.

There’s something incredibly special about acquiring new Christmas décor that feels meaningful—pieces that are thoughtfully made, deeply nostalgic, and destined to be used year after year. Supporting a local artist while adding timeless beauty to our home makes it even sweeter.

Shiny Brites may be ornaments of the past, but in my home, they continue to shine brightly—carrying tradition, craftsmanship, and Christmas magic into many seasons to come. 

Shiny Brites make my season BRIGHT, y'all!