SMALL WONDERS, GREAT JOYS

Drape a fluffy Tibetan lamb pelt over a favorite chair or at your feet for cushy comfort and a warm, modern vibe. Our featured pelt, $140 at Hearts & Fire, is available in several colors, and a pillow version, too.

TEXT, STYLING + PHOTOGRAPHY CHRIS CHRISTEN We all could use a few creature comforts this time of year. After all, it is hibernation season. Add a pandemic, and it takes more energy than ever to grin and bear it. Thank goodness for small wonders that make spaces — and life itself — instantly cozy and warm.

(Opposite page) A scented candle can evoke all the feels of baked goods, the outdoors, even a favorite liquor. M.A.D Candle Co. turns a liquor bottle into a sandalwood-scented soy candle, $42. From Northern Lights, cork-lid Spirit Jars in scents that pay homage to craft cocktails, $20. Shown with a Tibetan lamb pelt, $140; various colors. All from Hearts & Fire.

soothing hues

Warm neutrals, from rich cappuccino to champagne, can change the temperature of a room without moving the thermostat. If the whites in your décor have blue undertones, opt for grays or navy. For an instant update, swap out or add pillows and throws. From left: Monaco woven cotton throw with tassels, $35, Fluff Market; navy and cream textured pillow with fringe, $49.99, Prairie in Bloom; Bedford Collections striped throw, machine washable and stain- and mildew-resistant, $150, Hearts & Fire.

effortless style

culinary pursuits

Cooking and baking are as much fun as eating. Find new family favorites in “A Century of Serving: A Centennial Celebration Cookbook” from the Junior League of Omaha. Stunning photography by Joshua Foo with Alex Aparo and students at the Institute for the Culinary Arts at Metropolitan Community College; $35, Hearts & Fire, Fluff Market, Beyond the Vine, Made in Omaha, and other places where gift and décor items are sold. Deliver a homemade dish or dessert wrapped in a towel that the recipient can keep. Set of three, $18.99, Prairie in Bloom. While you’re there, snag a set of copper-finish stainless steel measuring spoons, $7.99.

more

Make a batch of pretty cookies and enjoy them with a cup of premium tea. Copper-finish metal cookie cutters, $6.95 and $2.95, Prairie in Bloom. Manipura Chai blend from Artemis Teas, $16 for 12 servings, Made in Omaha. At right, more baking tools: Crocheted 100% cotton hot pad, $8.99; ceramic liquid measuring cups, set of four, $16.99, Prairie in Bloom.

tip

Use books to vary heights of objects on your tabletops. We elevated this stoneware pot, $22, with fabric-covered books, $19 and $23, from Fluff Market. To our surprise, the pages held actual published works!

houseplants, please!

Nature’s greens are trending, and it’s no wonder. Plants in interior design provide a sense of health and well-being. Bird’s nest or crispy wave fern is like a breath of fresh air — literally! It’s a natural purifier. Bonus: This fern is low-maintenance and thrives in low to medium indirect light. Above, from left: Hammered galvanized metal planter with stand, $60; plant sold separately; playful ceramic cat vase, $12.99; plant sold separately. Both from Earl May.

positive thoughts

“52 Lists for Happiness” keeps journaling focused on positivity, balance and joy, $16.95; add a cheerful pom-pom throw, $49.95, and settle into a cozy writing spot. Find both items at Beyond the Vine.

All of us probably wish we could see into the future, especially concerning the coronavirus pandemic (we were really trying to avoid that mention). But this gazing ball is a beautiful reflection on nature when placed near a window. At night, interior lighting dances off the glass; $79.95, Beyond the Vine.

thoughtful gestures

Did you know that stitching promotes relaxation and productivity? And happiness, when gifting is involved. Keepsake “I am blessed” canvas and silver cuff bracelet, $70; RN canvas, $50. All from Village Needleworks.