As the holidays inch closer — the gatherings, the travel plans, the winter gear dusted off again — many people start feeling a slow, creeping heaviness at home.

I'm a bit advocate for helping people get through the holidays in a way that's giving, fun and relaxing. And I think helping avoid as much clutter as we can -- while also shopping local -- is a great place to start! The holiday season is a beautiful time of giving, but it's easy to get lost in what "giving" actually means. Gifts are certainly a part of that, yes (if you have the means and want to express your love that way), but giving gifts doesn't always have to pertain to