When my boys were little I was one of those early shoppers. By that I mean that on this date I would have had all or at least MOST of my shopping done. Everything put away in neat bags organized for each boy, stocking stuffers bulging in bags and everything all hidden away. My gift closet would be full for the rest of the family and whatever event might come along. I was a pretty organized being . . . back then.
Fast forward to today. Here is the tree in our home.
Notice anything missing? Well, there is no garland, ribbon or other much decoration on the tree. I decided to go the simple route this year, so, yes, that is missing. But, there is nothing under this tree. Absolutely nothing. And there is nothing hidden away in little bags in my house. Nada. There is nothing in that gift closet. Nada. I am at a loss this year. I think as our boys get older it gets a little more difficult to surprise them with fabulousness on Christmas morning. That makes me sooooo sad. I love to give a fun, unexpected surprise. I usually shoot for that and this year I am in much need of inspiration. Sigh. I know it will be fun and frenzied and wonderful even if there isn’t that stupendous present under this tree. In the meantime, I’m brainstorming on other “forced family fun” events to do while everyone is home and together this month.
Just because I have nothing under my tree as yet, doesn’t mean I’m not beginning my lists for others and haven’t been thinking of my favorite things to share with you that might be perfect on your list – either for yourself or someone on your list.
So, in the best of Holiday spirits, here goes a few of my favorites from this year – some I have and love and a couple I’d love to have!
For the creative soul, or book lover or someone wanting to create or who just likes Elizabeth Gilber books:
I read this book this year and am glad I did. I waffled back and forth whether to purchase and read or not. I was afraid I would be disappointed. . . and I think this is the very reason Harper Lee did not write more books after To Kill a Mockingbird. How do you follow that success? This makes a great gift for the reader on your list.
Along the same lines, I LOVE my kindle, and would not want to be in a carpool line, doctor’s office, sitting by the fire, on vacation or even deer stand without it. Sure, I love the feel and smell of a real book, but the convenience of always having a book, being able to have a running list of books you’ve read or want to read and the ability to get it at the tip of your fingers . . .priceless. I love the non glare of the kindle and this one, unlike mine, has a built in light. Nice.
I’ve been looking at spirilizers for quite some time and am not sure why I haven’t bitten the bullet. My life would surely be a lot easier making these wonderful veggie noodles and other fun things.
One of my favorite things are the wireless earbuds I have from Powerbeats. Not having to worry about getting tangled in a chord while working out is huge! I have crazy little ears that never work with those earbuds anyway – and then when they get sweaty refuse to stay in! The wireless ones wrap around the ear and stay in perfectly. I use these to walk the dogs – and when you walk two and three dogs at a time you need all hands at all times! I wear them around the house doing chores, outside gardening and, of course, while working out. They are great for listening to audiobooks and podcasts, too, which are my new favorite things. Here are some similar ones.
I bought this beautiful book recently as a gift. However, I loved it so very much I had to keep it for myself. I’ll be buying it again for that gift . . . Not only are the paintings in the book beautiful, but the stories behind each and the inspirations are beautiful.
Angels in our Midst by Anne H. Nelson
Hoka Running Shoe – I’ve been looking at this shoe for quite some time. I’ve never worn them but really want to try. I am having some foot pain form plantar fasciatis, a bunion and some pain on the bottoms of my feet. Not sure what’s going on, but I have talked to folks who LOVE this shoe who also have some of these feet issues. If you saw the shoe shelf with my running and training shoes, you’d think I was nuts for wanting to add another, but when trying them on they feel sooooo good! I am all about comfy shoes these days!
Speaking of shoes, and comfortable shoes, these are my new favorites! These Sorel boots are waterproof, super comfortable and don’t feel bulky. The fur lined makes them super warm. I’m just hoping for some colder weather so I can wear them every single day!
A friend of mine recently introduced me to BeautyCounter products. I am a huge fan of supporting women and their businesses and also this company’s philosophy of using all natural, organic ingredients. If you aren’t familiar check them out! One of my favorites is the body wash . . .
I love the description, “Every ingredient selected for safety. Each ritual created for beauty.”
I also have the lip gloss and lip sheer. Since I always have chapped lips and am a lip biter these two lip products have been wonderful for me!
While we are on healthy beauty products, I have been a fan of Rodan & Fields for quite some time. If you search my site you will see I’ve written about this company and their products in the past and even had a Giveaway of some great items. One of my very favorites is the Rodan & Fields Micro-Dermabrasion Paste.
ENHANCEMENTS Micro-Dermabrasion Paste is a high-glide, oil-free formula designed to promote maximum gentle exfoliation. Use intermittently to enhance cell turnover and improve skin tone and texture. Lucky Magazine reports that it smoothes away rough spots. All I know is that when I use it my face feels as smooth as a baby’s. Sometimes I keep it in the shower to use and others I use it as my face wash. It’s always so nice!
I’m sure I could come up with more! You will notice that this list is NOT just fitness stuff! There is a little bit of everything here – you can share this list with your hubby or use it for someone on your list!
I’d love to hear what is on your favorites list!
How much shopping have you done? See anything here that tempts you? What are your favorites this year?
Enjoy Your Day!
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