Some readers may not know that my Moss Mountain Farm is in nearby Arkansas. And while December is one of the most anticipated months of the year, it is also among the most hectic, especially since holiday activities are added to an already busy schedule of feeding chickens and chasing daylight. But even with the additional fuss, it still remains one of my favorite times of year. How could one not love the season of giving?
In the spirit of the season, I want to share with you my own special gift favorites, items naturally based and lovingly handmade. There’s something about them that adds a personal touch to the holidays.
Our season at Moss Mountain would not be complete without aromatic decorative candles from Arkansas’ premier candle maker, Aromatique. My favorites are The Smell of Christmas, Smell of the Tree and Pumpkin Spice—all smell of holiday cheer! Dillard’s and numerous gift shops carry them.
Southern Girl Soapery creates handmade bath and body products inspired by the traditions, stories and scents of the South. You can view the gift packages for both men and women online at southerngirlsoapery.com.
Sweet decadence on a new level: Lambrecht Gourmet’s award-winning Southern Pecan Toffee offers the richness of milk chocolate, roasted pecans and rich, crisp butter toffee. Available online at lambrechtgourmet.com
You’ll find functional rustic charm in authentic kitchen tools handmade in Quitman, Arkansas. Choose from spoons, spatulas, mortars and pestles, salt cellars, bowls and, my favorite: biscuit cutters. These heirloom-quality pieces are made of reclaimed wood and polished with a natural wood rub. Available from Eggshells on Kavanaugh at eggshellskitchencompany.com and The Green Corner Store (501.374.1111).
Photos: Jane Colclasure & Mark Fonville
[P. Allen Smith, host of two public television programs, is an award-winning designer and gardening expert. He is the author of several books, including Seasonal Recipes from the Garden.]