Season’s greetings to our entire TCM clan! As the merriest month of the year begins, we can’t help but be swept away by all the touchstones of the season: decorations that glimmer and gleam, sights and smells that fill our hearts with delight, old traditions that span generations and new ones to carry on into the future. And what are the holidays without family? December is all about connecting with those we love most of all, the family we’re born with and the family we choose. It’s in that spirit we introduce this month’s guest editor, a woman who has become like family to us here at The Chalkboard: the lovely Jenni Kayne!
Over the last three years, we’ve shared quite a bit from Jenni on TCM. This fashion designer infuses her sensible and super-chic style into everything she does, from hosting creatively healthful dinners (her In The Veggie Kitchen series has become a mainstay in the Chalkboard lineup) to conjuring up the latest trends (we credit Jenni’s now-famous d’Orsays with popularizing our footwear obsession of the moment). But before her role as style maven, creative genius, or hostess with the mostess, Jenni is first and foremost mama of two and a family woman to her core. Her blog Rip + Tan (named after her kids, Ripley and Tanner) is our go-to for inspiration on how to turn a house into a home and create traditions that last a lifetime.
Stay tuned all month long for Jenni’s sage advice, innovative tips, DIYs to celebrate the season, and tons of ways to make this holiday your brightest one yet – including a Pinterest contest that starts today! From our family to yours, here’s Jenni…
Dear Chalkboard readers,
I am thrilled and honored to be guest editor for December. My connection to The Chalkboard and its founders runs deep – they are truly like family. Apart from the personal relationships, however, are other connections that are just as strong – I begin each day with a Greens 1, and do not go a single day without reading this beautiful study in living well.
I am learning as I go that living well is not simply a destination, rather a journey filled with new discoveries and, often, good lessons learned. As a wife, mother and designer, I am forever working towards balance and harmony in all areas – something that I know I am not alone in attempting to achieve. It is for all these reasons that I love The Chalkboard… not to mention the insanely delicious recipes and incredible finds.
Which brings us to December. Perhaps my favorite month of the year, it is a time filled with equal parts joy, gratitude and love. It is also a time filled with wrapping and gift giving, dressing up and decorating, and cooking and entertaining.
I’m so looking forward to sharing with all of you this month – from the perfect sip to the perfect gift, I’ll be doing my best to make sure your season is especially bright.
Jenni Kayne
