life at a bookshop in winter - 'my passion for reading heals me'

come visit my little bookshop - my weekend work life (+ a book haul)
🦊MY ETSY SHOP: thecottagefairyart.etsy.com
🍄My Patreon: / bythecottagefairy
I was meaning to do a QnA for this channel this week, but was delayed due to a microphone still giving me grief. I hope instead to share a little peep into my bookstore/bibliophile life as I plunge into the busy holiday season of bookselling. I used to work at a bookstore at my old city, and now love that I can work in a small town selling stories. I only work here a small portion hours each week as I have a main job to take care of, but love every minute of it. I may have to walk away from this job in the future due to other commitments, but in the meantime am enjoying my time here. I also thought I'd share my little book haul of the birthday season, and the books I'm planning to read this December.
Firstly, my own book The Cottage Fairy Companion can be ordered online on a variety of websites, including Amazon as well as my own little bookstore if you live in the US! They are happy to ship you signed copies. Links below:
The Cottage Fairy Companion
Amazon: amzn.to/3wUuaKA
Also available at my local bookstore, Trail’s End Books (I sell signed copies there): www.trailsendbookstore.com/bo...
Other purchase options (including international) available on my linktree: linktr.ee/the_cottage_fairy
Here is the list of the other books mentioned:
A Nest for Celeste: amzn.to/3HCZnZE
An Enchantment of Ravens :amzn.to/3BwXeLj
East of the Sun, West of the Moon: amzn.to/3YlZ3nX
Wild Swans: amzn.to/3Px0pID
Nevermoor: amzn.to/3iOYmDp
The Body Keeps the Score: amzn.to/3hpqLzy
Wolfwalkers: amzn.to/3WdEl7T
Odder: amzn.to/3uKcz7w
Oddfellows orphanage: amzn.to/3FrYYXb
Daughters of Ys: amzn.to/3iYvLM3
❤️No obligation whatsoever, but if you would like to donate to support this channel $8 will get a thank you postcard (my own art) from me in the mail (please note: you must include address in your note so I can send it!). It is much appreciated: www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_...
(Now and then a postcard has been returned to me or lost in the mail. If you have not received a postcard e-mail me at [e-mail]! I send them out once a month, so definitely don’t be too worried if it has been a couple weeks but do contact me if you have any concerns. )
Thank you!
🦋Instagram: / the_cottage_fairy
📚Do you love audiobooks? If so, I would love to refer you (as a former bookseller) to an alternative to Audible that supports small local bookshops and communities! Learn more here: libro.fm/referral?rf_code=lfm...
Business e-mail: [e-mail]
Information and conservation efforts in the beautiful Okanogan County: methowconservancy.org
🌎 Take action to protect our lands (no donations necessary): www.audubon.org/takeaction
🌙 My favorite charity: www.nrdc.org
☀️Take Action: www.sierraclub.org/take-action
Additional music found at @
artlist.io/Rohan-78230
and
www.epidemicsound.com/referra...
(Get a month free with my referral code)
Sometimes I use affiliate links, allowing a purchase to give me a small comission! Thank you!

[@lisamcfarland5751]

When I was younger I wanted to be a librarian. I imagined how delicious it would be to be surrounded by books all the time. That never happened but I still love books! Your little bookstore looks so cozy, and charming.

[@sandycheeks1580]

It’s not her bookstore. Is it??? Either way, I’m happy for her finding her own way.

[@marionopisso212]

Me too!

[@amyjones2490]

I checked into becoming a librarian and it’s very involved and opens up a much wider job opportunities than I expected.

[@princetonsnumba1g]

I got a degree in film and then became a librarian assistant some how. I love it and plan to get a masters in library science so I can become an official librarian. It’s great being around so many books and helping people as well. Also if you work for a college like me you can get a degree for free. ☺️

[@lilkirsche]

@@sandycheeks1580 she doesn't own it. 😉

[@batsanddewdrops]

Normalize adults loving children stories🎉🎉🎉 I love them too. I get enough scary adult stories every day! Loving reading your book btw! Congrats!

[@Glorydancer333]

The Velveteen Rabbit is one of my favorite children's stories. And just the other day I saw a nostalgic ad online that reminded me of my beloved Tinker Toys. It seems we had a lot more imagination in those days. Childhood is the birthplace of imagination and creativity. The key is to not lose them as we grow older. I have a sign that says "Creativity Takes Courage." It does sometimes as an adult, but as a child it just flows naturally. May we never be so married to societal norms that we lose our expression of personal imagination and creativity.

[@batsanddewdrops]

@@Glorydancer333 I loved the velveteen Rabbit also! All you said is so true and inspiring💖 so important to hold onto your imagination like your life depends on it!

[@JeffJensen55]

@@Glorydancer333 OMG, Tinker Toys! I loved them, and probably would now as well.

[@lisasolo7114]

Me too- recently retired elementary school teacher here who can’t part with my many beloved children’s books.

[@debbieconnelley342]

Couldn’t agree more!!! I grew up reading The Secret Garden and it’s still a favorite to this day. I too am thoroughly enjoying Paola’s book!!! I started reading it today while subbing, and am halfway through. I want to slow down and savor it ❤️ Merry Christmas to all!! 🎄

[@TheCottageFairy]

While I only work at my bookshop a bit on the weekends apart from my other jobs, it’s one of the most meaningful days of the week for me, as I love being surrounded by books! I was planning on doing a QnA this week, but my new microphone arrived too late to finish it. Therefore, I will post it next week if possible: please do include any questions you have for me below that I can include! In the meantime, I made a video about my favorite winter pastime: reading and working at my little bookstore ❤

[@kenobeans]

What brings you the most joy in life?

[@Amanda-jd8xs]

Do you have any desire to travel? If so, to where?

[@ukameetslife]

This is probably not a QnA question. But I was wondering if you have any advice for someone who is just starting out on KZbin. Thank you for making these wonderful videos for us! ❤

[@greenwallclock]

As you mentioned once that change is not easy for you. I related to that sentiment. How do you deal with it?

[@greenwallclock]

If there was a situation where we can save only 3 books for ourselves and the rest would just disappear into oblivion, what would your picks be?

[@GJdeC369]

I am 63 and my wife is 61 living in South Africa and we are thoroughly enjoying watching you share your life with meaning. It has made us reflect, at this age, on our own life and how we are living it. A huge thank you and may 2023 be a magical year for you and the journey that you are on.

[@brendasorrelles3253]

A woman after my own heart ❤️ I grew up with a small but beautiful library of faery tale books. The embossed covers, the illustrations by the masters of the golden era simply lit up every story, poem and prose. During high school I had the dream of writing and illustrating children’s books, so naturally my present day library includes lovely children’s books…not mine yet. Closing in on 70 yrs, my heart is still filled with a child’s wonder along side the desire for gentleness. Being a sensitive myself and finding it even more difficult to live in this world as time goes by, there’s comfort and affection through your videos, as well as inspiration to remain true to myself, kindly so. It’s okay to be wondrously different from how we’re taught and how we’re expected to be. Shine on, dear one 🌟 Thank you! And many blessings to you and your family.

[@LB-ku6ry]

“…more difficult to live in this world as time goes by.” ❤

[@peterleprevost2154]

A woman after my own heart! Susan

[@JulianaMartins-eq6je]

many blessings to you and thank you too. it is not easy, i know. the world is still wonderful, but society is a heavy deal. i hope i'll able stay hopeful and honest as you and Paola all my life, and find some incredible support just by finding people like you online.

[@shantatendulkar1871]

I am 73 & share your view. Thank you.

[@peterleprevost2154]

@@shantatendulkar1871 ❤ Susan

[@tbrown2302]

Reading is never a problem. As a child I escaped the real world of a dysfunctional family life by reading and imagining myself as my favorites characters. Enjoy the books. Blessings.

[@Anonymous-gt1eq]

Excuse me for any spelling mistakes or misstypes. I am typing all on phone. Another thing for me to try to get to feeling more relaxed and peaceful would be to get simple phone and stop with the Intenet and all....hmm yeah gotta seriously do something about that. It is not inducive to feeling relaxed and getting some rest...

[@tbrown2302]

@user-cj8…… agreed! I’m working on that too, especially in the evening when I need to turn my brain off not stimulate it it with world news!

[@deborahminter6231]

💕📖

[@the.selfteaching.artist]

Fantasy can be such a save harbor. I think as 'adults' we belittle it too often

[@barbi6747]

How exciting to feature YOURSELF at your bookstore this year! I’m so proud and excited for you!

[@TheCottageFairy]

It was so amazing! I still can’t believe it, thank you so so much ❤

[@AllShallOBEY]

@@TheCottageFairy I adore you by mindy gledhill

[@lilcricket4379]

☺️🌼 yes! Paola...pinch myself 😊

[@sarrahlee4118]

Yes 🥰 brilliant

[@sarrahlee4118]

@@TheCottageFairy 🌮🍲☕🥰🥂...yes, brilliant 👏 👌 🤟

[@belwynne1386]

Your hair is pure glory! I am sure it is something you need to care for, but it is absolutely glorious. You are fortunate.

[@DaphneYuille]

I love this video! One of my friends and I decided we’re going to do jolabokaflod this year, which is an Icelandic tradition around Christmas where you gift each other a book and then set aside time that day to read and drink hot chocolate together! I gifted her a book and hot chocolate from a local bookstore and a local chocolatier, and while we won’t be spending Christmas together, I’m definitely looking forward to reading on the plane when I travel for the holidays! 😊

[@coreysgirl04]

What a lovely Icelandic tradition! 📖☕️

[@Amanda-jd8xs]

What a perfect tradition. Iceland is on my list of cultures to visit 😊

[@gabriellavargas9894]

What a lovely tradition. I am telling a few of my “bookworms friends” they would love to do that!

[@Churumbelita]

What a wonderful tradition! I was lucky enough to visit Iceland this year, truly a magical place.

[@lina5699]

That sounds wonderful! Have a merry time

[@williambent9636]

My experience as both a bookseller and librarian has taught me that there is no nobler work than opening the world of books to a child. Magic is real, and anyone can find it in a good book! Thank you, dear fairy, for sharing your love of books with others. I hope every one out there has one to unwrap this Christmas!!

[@williambent9636]

@@Frauenhaus You got me there. Spending time with kids in nature is big on my list, too. My baby granddaughter and I spend a lot of time with the apple tree in her yard. It was blooming when we brought her home from the hospital, it bore fruit, and even the apples that fell to the ground made meals for wild tortoises, rabbits, all kinds of wild birds including two families of bob whites, and a coyote--who ate 8 of them in about half an hour!

[@williambent9636]

@@Frauenhaus And I remember thinking the German forests looked so clean when I was a little kid. People litter all over where I live now in Colorado, Beer cans, wrappers, cigarette butts, even shot gun shells, it's truly disgusting. I make a point to pick up at least a little trash every time I go for a walk. People should treat the world like their own home, because it is!!!

[@miyaelsewhere]

That is my favourite part of this channel :)

[@eddieh1530]

I am a slow reader as well. The one thing I have noticed about that is that the books that I like and stay to the end remain with me in my mind and are priceless.

[@amymls1981]

I have to pause the video quickly to tell you I love your dreamy, sleepy little town! It looks so magical. 😊 I wish every shop looked as nice. I loved how the books are lined on the top of the building 😃. And the other building you passed looked so lovely too 😁. I love all the little details you add! Okay…. Now I’m gonna resume the video and enjoy 🥰. Ps. Congratulations on your book! 😊

[@TheCottageFairy]

I’m happy to hear that! I do love it in the winter, it gets so busy in summer and then just sleeps for several months, much needed! I’m glad you enjoyed it, best wishes ❤

[@amymls1981]

@@TheCottageFairy 💕 Thank you Paola. Best wishes to you too 😘😊.

[@gloriagomez2327]

Oh Paola, I am only 69 years old and fortunately, I never grew up. I adore children’s stories and have always adored animation. In college I took a children’s literature course and fell in love with Laura Ingall’s Wilder books, The Witch, the Lion and the Wardrobe, The Wind in the Willows, and also love Black literature as well ! I love to read as well, am a teacher and artist and have always had a special place in my heart for fables, fairies, and fantastic imagination! I have watched The Song of the Sea on Netflix and loved it soo much ! Loved the newest version of Pinocchio and if you can’t tell by now, still very much a child at heart. Happy Holidays my friend, and wishing you the very best always !!

[@amyvaccaro2761]

Reading has no age limits. We should read what makes us happy. 😊

[@jamilaxavier4536]

Every video is like being transported into a magical place, thank you so much x

[@pugpreslar711]

As a youngster I read Black Beauty and wanted to be around horses. Riding,training and loving them. Then at an older age I started reading Agnatha Christie books and soon wanted to be a spy or detective. It is fascinating to me that books can so influence us at all times of our lives. ❤️❤️❤️

[@GreenNatureTrails]

So true!

[@evam9080]

Have a wonderful Christmas, you make lovely videos and I really enjoy the peaceful sound of your voice.

[@ElizabethPoet]

The Body Keeps the Score is fantastic. Especially if you have chronic pain related to earlier trauma. Thank you for recommending this very important book.

[@MrsElinDamgaard]

My 4 year old daughter watched the video with me. She didn't understand a word because we're swedish but when you started speaking she said i awe "wow she's beautiful, she's really really beautiful". Children always say exactly what they think and I couldn't agree more. Thank you for another wonderful video, I always look forward to the next one 🥰

[@Existentialnausea]

The way you feel about your books, is how I feel about my childhood toys. I love books too, but my toys were like my friends. They kept me busy for hours in a world of my own. I've been building a collection of my favorite childhood stories too. There's a whole community out there for this too. In my generation, we are all holding tight to our past, as it is when we felt simple & magical, simultaneously. To give you an idea, I'll be 39 a week from today.

[@carnifaxx]

Isn't it a sign of emotional deprivation in childhood, being attached to objects/past rather than to people?

[@Existentialnausea]

@@carnifaxx I don't know. I'm attached to certain people in my life that are important, or were, but have since passed on. I think when one's happiest memories are found in a specific place & time, there's nothing wrong with holding onto it fondly. When we grow up, we tend to lose that magic that was part of our childhood purity.... before life changed us, whether that's a good or bad thing. But memories are forever.

[@christmashereandnow]

@In Progress - I still have the teddy bear my grandma gifted me when I was 3, as well as "Mommy Fox," one of the first stuffed animals my mom gave me. I'm getting close to 53!

[@Splin7er_the_ninja]

@@carnifaxx I don’t know either. I still have some old toys, my old game consoles and cartridges, books and vhs. I have a display in my home office with them in. Brings back good memories. But I have an amazing wife and two beautiful kids, great friends and loving parents. My parents helped me develop my imagination through these toys, games and books. I hope I can do the same with my kids.

[@songbird5266]

These things remind me to hold on to wonder. My mom loves a book she used to go to the library to smell. She doesn't even remember the story or title. She's nearly 80. As people pass away, it's good to have a thing or two that connects me to good times.

[@brittneylamar9864]

I worked at a small bookstore a bit before getting married. I loved it and always came home with so many books I still treasure.

[@ashelyapples]

I love to relax on my sofa, cuddled up with my dog and enjoying a hot cup of something tasty, to listen and watch your videos. It is always just the short break I need to feel re-centred around enjoying life. Thank you. Sending my love to you!!! ❤

[@ritagreene8376]

My mother always said, "you can never go wrong buying a book". That is why my walls are coved with shelves and books. I love you and hope to see you often here but please care for yourself.

[@meredithheath5272]

Rita: I have a lot of books, too - language, art, garden design, crafts, music instruction.... Well said Rita.

[@miyaelsewhere]

I agree with your mom :)

[@angelahagood3639]

It’s good to know there are others that read slowly and savor a book. I have to pace myself, especially when it is a book in a series and the author hasn’t even written the next installment! I simply adore reading children’s books. C.S. Lewis wrote “A children’s story that can only be enjoyed by children is not a good children’s story in the slightest.” My parents weren’t avid readers. My aunt, who worked in the library, is the one that created my love of reading. Your channel is simply enchanting! Thank you! 🧚 ✨ 📚

[@anitasunda3823]

Books were so vital in my life growing up but I seem to make less and less time for them now, whilst encouraging my children constantly to read, and buying them books...seeing this has made me realise that I also need to make space in my life for reading again.

[@deborahminter6231]

I loved books as a child. It was a magical experience for me.

[@amn8827]

My parents instilled the love of books and reading a gift that’s been handed down to my children and grandchildren. Books and reading is a treasure to hold onto all through our life.

[@livelikeliz]

Even though I am a content creator myself I agree that books just convey an entirely different kind of magic. The images that appear in our heads while we read are entirely our own, no video or tv series could ever match them. They excite us, puzzle us, calm us down and so often leave memories that thoughts that stay with us for the rest of our lives. Making more time for switching everything off and just reading a good book is one of my top resolutions for 2023. Much love and thank you for sharing your passion for books with us here 💕

[@THEMAX00000]

She looks so adorable holding up her book. She’s so happy. Good for you dear

[@yvonnebirch6026]

What an accomplishment to have your book in the bookstore ! It couldn’t happen to a more deserving person Paola ! Congratulations 💕🌷

[@mariademartinstauffer372]

I love seeing people while there are reading. It gives me a feeling of peace and warms my heart and I ask myself in which inner world this person is. While watching your videos dear Paula I have sometimes tears in my eyes because you touch me so much. You have a wonderful, deep soul. I wished I had a friend like you are ❤️ Thank you for sharing a part of your life. I cherish that a lot. Please take care of yourself and stay warm in and outside. With love, Maria

[@elizabethwidlund3859]

Books have been my delight and solace my entire life. One of my earliest memories is of sitting with my dad in a big armchair as he read Edith Hamilton's "Mythology" aloud to me. I read voraciously and feel cheated if a day passes without being immersed in a book for at least a short while. I taught preschool for 15 years and developed my own thematic curriculum based on picture books. My husband asked me what I wanted for Christmas, and I'm getting your book! I can't wait! Thank you for your enchanting videos. You're an oasis in my day.

[@DodgesAndDaisies]

I absolutely love that you read and love children's books. I am another adult that loves children's books and more simple reads. Maybe it's because life is so complicated. Sometimes I want my reading escape to be simple.

[@lilypurdum9927]

The Body Keeps the Score really helped my dad so much in getting past many things! It really is a great book!

[@ruthieshields189]

Hi! I love all your videos. They relax me and create a sense of peace that I sometimes find elusive in my chaotic life. I’m an introvert, so reading is a genuine love of mine. Thank you sharing some of your favorite books. Wishing you a Blessed Yule season. 🥰🎄❄️📚

[@carlienvandernet7902]

I absolutely love all these bookideas, thank you very much ❤. Children books have always been my favorite books, but I do read also a lot of other books and I’m always looking for new ones 😊.

[@annjones345]

Your videos and your book are so needed in our culture today. I love your book! You give people permission to discover the beauty in our world all around us Blessings!

[@Ellary_Rosewood]

Always love a good book haul video, especially when it's super cozy! I love seeing what others are reading and the things they are passionate about. I recently made my first book haul video and it was so much fun to make! I'd love to see more videos like this in the future. 🥰

[@kathleenroberts7972]

Thank ypu for saying there is no such thing as too many books! My over loaded book cases have spilled over to tall piles in each room.books are like friends.great gifts!

[@febblepebble]

It's nice to hear that you're a slow reader, I am too. I often feel like there's an expectation that if you love reading you have to get through books very quickly but I simply don't. It's just encouraging to hear that the person who most inspires me to read has the same reading style as me :)

[@neurolotte2406]

I love all your book related content, but the bookstore videos are my absolute favourites: the place seems cozy, quiet and enchanted in a way, would love to visit it! Also, what you say in the end about how important it is for self care to take time in the evenings to do what we love... Totally spot on!

[@brightpurpleviking]

Little Miss has grown a magnificently plumed tail! How quickly kittens grow up 😢❤

[@catherine5541]

Each year my grown son asks me for ideas of what to get me for Christmas. Answer is always the same “I don’t know”. Well this year I finally had a suggestion, your new book. He was very happy, and I am looking forward to seeing and reading this beautiful book.

[@evangeline3152]

When I was a young woman I would stay up all night to finish a book but now it takes me a week to read a book. I still love reading but I get sleepy now. I got your book but I am saving it for my Christmas weekend. The cover is beautiful!

[@arianahoule7223]

Hi, beautiful Paola. Love your glasses. One of the main reasons I watch you is because of your child-like qualities. I've always been child-like. At "74," it is one of my most prized qualities. Sending loving and peace-filled thoughts to everyone.

[@sarahmanning525]

What really entices me into a bookstore is seeing the window display. I love when seasonal books are use for a festive effect. This looks like an awesome place to explore and look for gifts to give away or keep.

[@saiko_1]

I don’t know if you’ll ever read this, but I’m from Portugal and I bought your book online on the beginning of this month and received it today in my mailbox and I couldn’t be happier! I can’t stop smelling the pages haha I also bought a Tasha Tudors book, and it came together with yours. A perfect match. Thank you for existing ❤️

[@shirleyadamson9326]

Many years ago one of my nieces gave me an armful of books, one of which is “The Body Keeps the Score”. I have not read it yet but I keep it and look at it often, knowing one day I will….it seems that “one day” is getting ever closer. Blessings and keep well.

[@vagabondtom2969]

Watching your videos brings me so much peace and calm when I'm feeling anxious...thank you

[@deskgamesix]

I grew up in ranchlands of West Texas in a family that loved books. In college one of my favorite places was an out-of-the-way used bookstore. I would literally spend hours there warmed by Dearborn gas heaters while listening to the owner's eclectic taste in music. He was retired military and would sit contentedly behind the counter reading. He had found his peace. When I graduated from college in 1986, I went directly into law enforcement and haven't stopped yet. My shoulders and knees are blown, my left hand doesn't work correctly and a little boy I couldn't save comes to me in my dreams. I'm tired. Last weekend my wife and I drove by the place where that bookstore once was. The owner has long since died and the building is vacant. I will retire in the next four years and if I were to buy that store now I could begin stocking it and perhaps find my peace. Perhaps. In the meantime I will continue watching your videos. We all have problems and it is wonderful how you deal with yours. Thank you.

[@carolinelawrie7142]

Your cat grows more beautiful with every film 💗💗💗

[@cuckibliss]

Hi, congratulations on your book. I love everything about your town and the book shop. It is looking so magical . I am happy to see this video. Love cucki x

[@alifeofpoetry]

Your videos always make me feel super cozy and warm. Thank you for sharing snippets of your day at your library job ❤

[@kellycallahan5770]

I teach elementary school and always love reading the books that are made for them, particularly graphic novels. It's so fun when we can talk about what we liked best!

[@Lola19]

I love you videos! It feels like an escape into a magical world for a couple of minutes. Thank you for putting so much effort into it. I wish you a wonderful Christmas time! ❤😊

[@meredithheath5272]

What a gorgeous quote, at the very end of Poala's video 💝💗💕💌💞💓🥰

[@parry3231]

Simply lovely .thank you for sharing this video with us and enjoy your new treasures.

[@olivialudke9985]

Hi! I came across your channel last year and I subscribed. Your videos are truly so sweet and I absolutely love the charming town you live in! I dream of living in a place like that someday. ❤️

[@lanachristiansen2782]

Paola, I have so enjoyed your videos, for such a young woman, you have such a keen and calming insight on life. I purchased a couple of your beautiful prints for two of my grandaughters, they are beautiful. I ordered your lovely book as a just because ..... for my daughter. Blessings to you and your family this beautiful season .

[@Native-Kitty]

There’s nothing wrong with the types of book genres you like to read. We all like what we like. That’s what makes reading books so great! I’m curious as to how many books you read in a year. Thank you for another beautiful video Paola ❤❤

[@peterleprevost2154]

The walls in our home are lined with books and a goodly portion are childrens books not only for the stories, but also the art work. I love words, and tend to form pictures in my mind as I read. I would ask all who can to encourage real, hold the book reading time with the children you know. I’m 77 years young and the child I was, I still am and learning to read one of the greatest gifts ever. Thank you for sharing your messages with us. Many blessings. From Susan

[@OrianaAnjou]

I just paused on Paola's picks - 1 of your is an all time favorite (Name of the Wind) and my daughter just gave me Mistborn to read. I just pulled The Signature of All Things off of your shelf....and am going to give it a go! Thanks!

[@inspired9239]

Thank you, Paola, for including your kitty in this video. As I'm missing mine, who passed on a couple of months ago, your precious one tugged at my heart @5:44. Cats are so peaceful, curious, and loving, they will always hold a special place in my heart.

[@meredithheath5272]

So sorry for your loss of your kitty.

[@inspired9239]

@@meredithheath5272 Bless you, Meredith, and thank you for your condolences. In my quest to understand how she became so sick, I discovered cats can experience PTSD.😿 I had no idea, but it certainly explained her behaviorial issues during the 8 years I had her. As with all rescues, we never know what they've been through. My only consolation is that she's now in a better place, no longer suffering.🙏🏻

[@BookButler]

We always judge our work more harshly than others do. I recently did a wood-burning project as well. The ornaments I made were clumsily done, as I don't use my burner often, but one of the recipients teared up on receiving it - she was that touched! If it's not perfect, just call it "rustic" and move on with your day. :)

[@rhondabeaman1]

Thanks for sharing with us even during this season of family time and festivities. It is always such a delight and reprieve to see you have uploaded a video! ♥️

[@janetbrock8240]

I'm very excited to say that on my book list is my newly acquired cottage fairy companion which came through the mail yesterday. Thank you Paola for this beautiful book. Happy holidays to you and your family.

[@totallytanji]

I live for your videos Paola. They keep me calm and make me feel like I can slow down my mind, which is always in a state of crisis hehe 😅. I forget how often I have your content playing when I cook, do dishes, get ready for work in the morning. You are a huge part of my mental health. Thank you!

[@tammyroyal7547]

How enchanting your little town is & looks so beautiful with the snow!! I love to go into a bookstore!! The smell of the books, the different front covers & colorful spines, & of course, the stories that wait inside to be read!! Such a delight!! Glad you are doing well!! Kitty is so beautiful ❤️ Take care sweet fairy girl 💚

[@peggysmith8346]

I miss going to the bookstore. A cousin of mine and I would go once a month to the local bookstore and buy arm loads of books. Then we would go next door to a coffee shop for hot cocoa or tea. The bookstore and coffee shop are gone now. I miss them so much and the quaint, small town ambiance.there is nothing like curling up with my cats and getting lost in the magic of a book.

[@marysmith8876]

Oh my goodness, I am so happy to have happened across you. I am 70 and I love fairies 🧚‍♂️ cats and books and children's books. What a wonderful book store you work in and congratulations having your book published. It is all so lovely and you have duch a love gentle kind manner. Thank you. I'm sure I am going yo enjoy following you on youtube. Have a great week 😀

[@Rainydays-and-Rainbows]

Love hearing your book recommendations. I believe in nurturing the child-soul that lives in our hearts no matter how old we get. What a beautiful way to live life. Lots of love to you. 💖

[@sheilavanduynfote5539]

I love your quaint town, I would love to work in a bookstore as I am a voracious reader. I am 71 and have enjoyed reading as far back as first grade. Thank you for your book suggestions. I am wishing you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and your husband.❤️🎄🎄📚

[@randynester7933]

Thank you for your video. Moments into your video I realized I had lived in your little town in my youth 1978/79. I looks as if the town has not changed much at all. My parents moved around a lot, and out of all of the places I have lived that was my favorite. Such a beautiful valley. Nothing but fond memories from there. Glad to see you are enjoying it also.

[@tel-gram-thecottagefairy]

👆Thanks for your comment, Send me a direct msg following the handle above🎁❤

[@jillychandler]

How exciting that your book is out! I have ordered one, so looking forward so much to reading it! That cat of yours is sooo beautiful. I love reading books, and get lost in the pages, so glad that you can do the same. Thank you for your lovely video. Blessings and warm hugs to you, from a freezing, yet beautiful, Devon. England. xxx

[@DianEnglish56]

Your videos are always so calming to watch. I love the little glimpses into life in a small town. It looks so serene especially in winter. Would love to see the list of books you recommended in the bookstore.

[@paulschiavone77]

Your videos show such a compassion and caring love in all you do, so wonderful to see yourself as a healthy centered person. Amazing thank you 🙏 ❤

[@cerridwencottagediary9194]

What a wonderful quote-I couldn't agree more. I also love childrens' picture books and I am 50! Greetings from cottage life in Wales x

[@moongold9025]

What a lovely bookstore. Congratulations to you again on your own book! Your wood book mark turned out nice. Enjoy the🧡 treasure of books you purchased. All the best to you!

[@joannewolfe5688]

Congratulations on becoming a published author! I have ordered your book as a Christmas present for myself! Can't wait!

[@ms.minimalistic9102]

This is so calming to watch. Everything in this video is what i want in my life to happen. Feels like living in a dream, a bookstore, a simple house, peace and contentment. Someday, i will achieve this too. Thank you for always putting a healing vlog.

[@JulianaMartins-eq6je]

Paola, thank you one more time for being who you are and sharing your graceful spirit through your videos. i've been reading The Highly Sensitive Person and i have no words to express how thankfull i am, this book is saving my life at a very fragile moment. i think HSPs are the ones who keep their inner child alive and struggle because of it. i also love 'the sound of the sea' a lot, pangur ban! i wish you all the best, and thank you one more time, you're a lovely being

[@ElizabethPoet]

Excellent point about HSPs keeping their inner child. Will write that in my journal. Thank you!

[@ginaalesha2]

Thank you so much for being a kind gentle soul, you always bring such value in your videos that are heart warming!

[@baleek4367]

Song of the sea was one of the only DVDs we had lying around in the house we quarantined in. We watched so many times! Love from France !

[@amyjones2490]

A good book is a good book no matter what age group it is “meant” for. Combining books and art is my favorite thing.

[@oliviakay2936]

I LOVE wolfwalker and song of the sea. the beauty of the animation, the accents, everything. The books are amazing too!!

[@SweetieTarian]

Oh Paola how I needed your counsel and soothing words this morning. Thank you fairy ❄️💜

[@flowerpixel]

I love hearing your book lists! This time a year ago I read the snow child bc of your rec and it was amazing ❄️

[@Tasmetu]

I live on a small island and I miss cozy bookshops so, so, SO much. They are such wonderful, peaceful places. Thank you for taking us along. 💜

[@andreasissons7766]

Thanks for all the great book suggestions. I'm 64 and I love reading children's books especially since I have 8 year old twin grandkids who are avid readers and I'm always on the look out for something new. The Body Keeps the Score is also a fantastic book. I first got the audio book and then the paper book...so much useful information which explains so much about how people adjust to trauma in their lives.

[@bonnieofbluebellbarn4181]

You are perfect for this job. You love the books and your display style is lovely. Weekend fun.

[@robinmp8300]

Your cat is so good and so enthralled with all your projects

[@laurensturgill9149]

Went to Trails end today and got your book! Im so excited to read it, thanks for the postcard!

[@katmoons]

Once again, I thoroughly enjoyed joyed visiting your small town. I truly appreciate the reminder to slow down and cherish our books! Thank you.

[@jaclynevans4869]

I love song of the sea ! And I agree is very enchanting thanks for the recommendations 🧚🏻‍♂️🌳🌲

[@proyectatujupiter4987]

I love what your videos convey. I love that small things that you show us with that so relax music. Very inspiring. Thanks

[@rockyroad3665]

Watching your videos always brings me back to my childhood and a simpler time. I adore children’s books and have many. The Wind in the Willows is one of my favorite. ☺️

[@shelley7975]

I'm reading, The Body Keeps the Score, as well. It's a book that reaches deep within, and one I have to keep putting down. I'm sure it will require a second reading. Thank you for sharing, you always leave me feeling peaceful. Love from Michigan.

[@karunadd]

? For your Q&A. How do you avoid wasting time & not get sucked in on social media & internet? You seem to live in a tranquil timeless dimension where you are able to pursue so many of your interests without unnecessary distractions. 💓

[@idabustamante7081]

love you taking us along to your book store . . fyi Miranda Mills Favorite Things December Edition vlog she purchased your book and also watches your channel . . have a wonderful day 🐈‍⬛❤️🙋‍♀️

[@copperpenny0209]

Great quote at the end! I'm not a fast reader either and if I put a book down for too long, I have to go back a few pages to refresh. I have a tendency to get sidetracked and then struggle picking up the book I started.

[@Elizabeth-arb22]

Oh, Thank you, Paola! I love it when you share book lists with us. I feel that you are a kindred spirit, particularly when it comes to your book preferences. Good Yule -- Happy Winter Solstice! 💗

[@aseekersjournal]

Your cat has grown up so much! It's lovely to see the transformation over the course of your videos. Quite a wise character now but still full of play - as we all should be :).