A page to paint while the tree lights sparkle and a favorite Christmas movie plays in the background, the kind of quiet you don't get much of in December.

The idea for the Watercolor Workbooks started with kids in mind: simple outlined sketches they could paint with watercolors just like with crayons in a coloring book. What was surprising was how many grown-ups took to the books, too. Grandmothers painting with grandkids, girlfriends gathering together, first-time artists who needed something less intimidating than a blank page.

This one is made for the season, however you find your way into it. Some paint around the table with family, the one hour everyone sits down together with no phones. Others keep it by the couch for a quiet evening alone, or pass an afternoon on it with a friend and a steaming cup of cocoa. However the workbook is enjoyed, it's a nice way to slow down in a month that rarely lets you.

Just the right amount of instruction, and plenty of room for creativity.