SOMA Living December 2025

INTERIOR DESIGN

THE HOLIDAY EDIT: MAKING MAGIC ON YOUR OWN TERMS

Okay, decor lovers… let’s talk holiday traditions— especially when the season looks different than you imagined. This year, I’m celebrating quietly with just my husband and son. I’d hoped to travel and see more family in Illinois, but I’m still immunocompromised after a bone marrow transplant in August. And while I’m thrilled to say I’ve officially hit Day 100 and am in full remission (!!!), big gatherings just aren’t safe for me yet. Thank goodness for FaceTime. Growing up, we decorated as a family while Johnny Mathis played in the background and my mom added greens, bows, and lights to literally everything. It was magic. I’ve kept that tradition alive—plus added a LOT more Christmas balls (I NEED COLOR!). My mom also gave each of us (my sis, my bro, and me) a mini themed But different does NOT mean less special.

tree for our bedrooms. This year, I put a small pink tree in our sunroom… because I’ve always wanted one. Because I needed a little whimsy. And because being ALIVE is a celebration. The past eight months have been a whirlwind. If you’re new here, I was diagnosed with leukemia in March (curveball!). So this holiday season feels different… it wasn’t guaranteed. But you know what? Nothing is. So bring out the tinsel. Hang the weird ornaments. Light every candle. Make your home joyful—for you. Because memories matter. And this season, that’s more than enough.

For more pics and tips… check out my IG: @KateTheDecorWhore

Kate@decorwhore.com www.decorwhore.com

GREG’S CROSSWORD PUZZLE

ANSWERS ON PAGE 24

Greg Snitkin is a dad with 3 small kids and a resident of South Orange. His puzzles have appeared in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Andrews McMeel Universal, and various indie outlets.

DECEMBER 2025 | SOMA LIVING 17

@somalivingmagazine