Hubs and I learned a long time ago that writing out lists for each other really helps during the holidays. Sometimes, however, I find that I don’t know WHAT the heck I want for Christmas. I want healthy, happy kiddos and a reason to smile each day. I want jokes and kindness, sprinkled with peace and quiet from time to time.
BUT….
For many of us, gift giving is a love language.
So, I’ve gotten into the habit of simply asking for a restock on items I already love. Here’s a list of some of my favorite things this year! Check out some of the Amazon Links below.
Beauty
I have a hard time finding great moisturizer. My sister swears by snail slime, but I’m not ready to try it yet (though I bet it will be my next purchase). In the meantime, I have really enjoyed Biossance Squalane and Omega Repair Moisturizer. I use it at nighttime, after a gentle facial scrub. This stuff doesn’t smell like much, and I appreciate that it doesn’t clog my pores.
Mind
I love to read, and lately my favorite has been Elizabeth Strout. I especially loved her last book, Lucy By the Sea, which talked about a couple’s experience with the pandemic. It was fascinating to read about someone else’s perspective of the whole ordeal, since I still think I have post traumatic stress from all that business. This book was graceful, intriguing and full of life. I recommend it.
Body
When it comes to yoga, I’ve been pretty picky about my mats in the past. I was a hard-and-true Jade Mat user until Hubs bought me a Manduka Mat. This bad boy is awesome. I love it for hot yoga, power yoga, and aerial. It doesn’t absorb your sweat and is easy to keep clean. Amazon is running a slight deal on these guys….I usually see them in the $130 range. I definitely recommend this guy!
fashion
I love a clean, crisp, slightly fun sneaker for all the running around I do. Cole Haan has been a favorite for a long time. I have narrow feet, so they work out well for me. I feel a little more upscale when I throw these guys on….even if I’m still in my yoga pants. There is an outlet store close by at the Philadelphia Premium Outlets. But when I can’t make it out there, I can sometimes find a deal on Amazon, too. I like this shoe and keep buying a newer version each year. I think I’m on my third pair. Totally recommend!
from the kids
Hubs always asks what the kids can get me. That means less expensive, fun little finds that make everyone feel great. I always seem to be out of hair ties, clips, socks, and scarves. But fun jewelry is great, too. The kids feel pretty special when they see me wearing something new and jazzy they picked out. Here is a favorite dainty little find that I find myself throwing on every day.
for fun
I’m a kid at heart. So, this idea may seem a little silly, but it sure makes me happy! The kids have a few Rubiks Cubes laying around the house. One year, I finally got into it. Admittedly, I needed to watch a few videos on YouTube to figure out what the heck I was doing. I’m not sure my brain thinks like that naturally (memorizing algorithms) but it was VERY stimulating and exciting to learn how to do this puzzle. I find that in life, we all need a few things that help us to escape and rediscover our childhood. Total A+ for this neat toy.
I hope this helps make the season a little easier! Have fun for all you gifters out there!!
4 the Love of Peace 