Have you ever had a friend that just always knows what you need, right when you need it? My friend Renee is that kind of friend. Renee brings me a little something special every time I see her, and whenever she comes to my door with a bag in her hand, I get pretty giddy.

Renee’s goodie bags run the gamut, but many usually include something handmade, something thoughtful beyond measure and something crafty. From wall art she created for my son when he was born to vintage glitter that makes me smile every time I look at it, a gift from Renee is something I know I will always treasure. She and I share a love of stamping, crafting and antiques. She personalizes everything she presents down to the tag with my name stamped on it. When I had my son, she always made sure I had a craft magazine to read.

Nestled sweetly in a gift bag she brought on one of her visits was Somerset Life magazine. When I flipped open the first page, I was struck by my connection to the content. Every page, much like Renee’s gifts, seemed personalized for me.

The subtitle for Somerset Life is “Authentic and Creative Living” and I couldn’t describe it better if I tried. What I love most about Somerset Life is the feeling that immediately washes over me the minute I dive into its pages.

The magazine showcases crafts and tutorials, but it goes a step further into the heart of the creative life with poetry, photography and more. The features are a lot like a glimpse into the creative life I want to lead. Each issue is bursting with examples of people immersed in imagination and creativity.

What sets this magazine apart is its commitment to creative living as a whole. The approach is well-rounded and elegant. The structure is engaging and the articles beautifully written. My favorite article was entitled “My Neighborhood” and it took the reader on a picturesque tour of the author’s street, introducing wonderful characters and painting beautiful pictures of this peaceful neighborhood.

There are so many craft magazines available these days, but there are a few that really rise above the rest. Somerset Life jumped to the top of my list this year because of its thorough dedication to the aesthetic of its readers and a passionate desire to present something of worth. The magazine, like my friend Renee, is a gift in and of itself.