Tag: gift guide

Here’s the latest installment of a few of my favorite things that I’m currently enjoying or coveting. I hope you find some inspiration for your gift-giving and new things to discover for yourself!

1.    LeBon Socks: These are my favorite socks. I’m into the cute design and the cozy factor. I like the Boyfriend Socks Vintage Pink and Blue Grey; Girlfriend Socks Bellini and the trouser sock style, Her Socks.

2.   Eastfork Pottery: East Fork combines rustic, handmade beauty with dishwasher-safe, microwave-friendly ease. The Everyday Bowl is the one I use the most. The perfect size for pretty much anything! The 7-Piece You’re-All-Set Set makes a great wedding gift. Some of their colors sell out, so if you see something you love, snag it. East Fork has stores in Asheville and Atlanta.

3.   Dilo Candles: Dilo candles are good quality, the fragrances are well-curated, and the price is very reasonable. The monthly candle subscription is only $10.00. Many retailers stock the candles. You can visit the flagship store in Philadelphia or order online.

4.   Nati Ribbed Tank Tops: The perfect accessory to pair with a blazer. Tank Tops are a must-own layering staple. The Olivia Ribbed Tank from Nati comes in several colors. The tank is a fitted ribbed finished with a high crew neckline for a clean look. It’s a timeless style that works with just about everything in your wardrobe.

5.   Spicewalla Spices: My favorite ground spices created by Chef Meherwan Irani in Ashville, North Carolina. The 10 Pack Spice Essentials Collection makes a great gift!

A few of my favorites include Sicilian Sea Salt  / Cyprus Flake Salt / Himalayan Pink Salt, Extra Small Grain / Kashmiri Chilli Powder / Za’atar / Herbs De Provence / Amore Pizza Seasoning.

6.   Living Libations Essential Oils: My preferred choice for essential oils is Living Libations. The oils do not contain fillers, diluters, artificial colors, or petrochemicals. My favorite essential oils from Living Libations include: Frankincense First Friend / Illume Hotberry /  llume Classic / Zest the Best.

Here’s a link to an article about how to know if your essential oils are top quality.

7.   FinaMill Spice Grinder: The FinaMill Spice Grinder means one grinder for all of your spices. It comes with reusable pods that you can fill with the spices and herbs of your choosing.

8.   Stanley Adventure Quencher Travel Tumbler 40 OZ: I’ve purchased many water bottles over the years. This one is   my favorite. This design is trendy and sells out fast. Check the website for a restock. Amazon has a limited stock.

9.    Taika Latte: Taika is an adaptogen-infused coffee that’s designed to provide a boost of energy without making you feel wired. Taika offers four drinks: black coffee, oat milk latte, macadamia latte, and matcha latte. The oat and macadamia lattes are sweetened with allulose and monk fruit.

10. Breville Bambino Plus or Bambino Regular Espresso Machine: The Breville Bambino Plus or Breville Bambino Regular Espresso Machine is the best espresso machine for beginners. You can explore three heat and milk texture settings without a device taking up half of your kitchen counter. It’s ideal for apartments, offices, and small kitchens. I like the Baratza Encore grinder.

As an added bonus, it’s a popular machine so there are tons of tutorials online around it. Some great tutorials include Whole Latte Love’s machine-specific tutorials, Seattle Coffee Gear’s videos on making specific drinks, and European Coffee Trip’s how-to on making latte art.

Check with your local coffee shop about classes for the at-home barista.

11. Cast Iron Conditioner and Chain Mail Scrubber: I use Field Company Cast Iron Skillets. It’s essential to care for cast iron properly. I use this cast iron conditioner and chain mail scrubber. If you are looking to invest in quality cast iron, I recommend Field Company.

12.  Bulletproof Creamer: Bulletproof Original Creamer is a keto coffee creamer made with grass-fed butter and MCT oil. When you combine these quality fats with coffee, you get Bulletproof Coffee: a rich, satisfying drink that kick-starts your day and keeps you going strong. I like the vanilla and hazelnut flavors. I also use the Bulletproof Vanilla Collagen Protein Powder. I like the vanilla flavor. The creamer tastes better in coffee. I prefer the collagen protein powder if I make a protein shake.

P.S. What are some of your favorite things?

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Newsletter #1: Health and Wellness, San Antonio Travel Guide, Supplements for Immune Support

Newsletter #2: Best Buys 2021, Savannah Travel Guide, Rum Cake Recipe

Newsletter #3: Favorite Books, Movies, Shows, Podcasts, Apps, Food of 2021, Portland, Marine Travel Guide, Green Smoothie Recipe

Newsletter #4: Morning Routines + Santa Fe Travel Guide + Recent Purchases

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Newsletter #6: Super Bowl Dip Recipes + Valentine’s Day Recipes + Non-Alcoholic Spirits + Laurel Miss Travel Guide

The latest installment of favorite things that I’m currently enjoying or coveting. I hope you find some inspiration for your gift-giving and some new things to discover for yourself!

1. Gorjana Diamond Pavé Heart Necklace: Treat yourself, or a loved one to a 14k gold heart necklace that shines thanks to an array of pavé cut diamonds.
2. Veronica Beard Dickey Jacket: I have a pink Veronica Beard dickey jacket that I pair with jeans. The dickey jackets have great structure and are so well-tailored to the body. They elevate any simple tee and denim look and are a great addition to a corporate wardrobe.
3. Mignonne Gavin Wynnive Crystal Hoop Earrings: I have several pieces of Mignonne Gavin jewelry. I love the vintage design of the crystal hoop earrings. I also have a pair of pearl hoop earrings.
4. Lake Pajamas: I have a few pairs of Lake Pajamas. I purchase mine during their annual sales. Not only do they offer some of the cutest pajamas, but the pima cotton is so soft. They do shrink a bit so keep that in mind. Machine wash with like colors on the delicate cycle in cold water. Do not use bleach or OxyClean. Lay flat to dry. Your pajamas should be treated as delicate and should not be washed with heavy items such as jeans and towels.
5. Rolla Jeans: I constantly get asked about my Rollas East Coast flares. They are so comfortable and flattering.
6. Caddis Eyewear Readers: I wear the Caddis Miklos tortoise reading glasses. They fit great and include blue-light-blocking HEV-coated lenses. This protects against eye strain and potential issues like headaches, tension, and sleeplessness.
7. Bulletproof Vanilla Collagen Protein Powder: I use this collagen protein powder in my coffee. I like the vanilla flavor.
8. DÔEN Wyatt Belts: I have both the conga and black designs. These are investment pieces that can be worn for a long time due to their high quality.
9. Bhu Foods Keto Semi Sweet Chocolate Chips: These keto chips melt properly for baking and taste delicious.
10. Nature’s Way Supplements: I keep this brand of cold and flu supplements on hand during cold and flu season. Umcka (Pelargonium sidoides) roots, a member of the geranium family, have long been used to relieve respiratory and digestive ailments.
    Nature’s Way Cold and Flu ChewablesNature’s way Cold ChewablesNature’s Way Cold and Flu SyrupNature’s Way Cold Care Soothing Hot Drink Mix

    Nature’s Way Cold Care Drops

11. Athletica Winthrop Glove: I use this running glove to keep my hands warm on my morning runs during the winter.
12. Coconut Milk Dark Chocolate Bar: This dairy free dark chocolate bar is delicious.

P.S. What are some of your favorite things?

P.S. I write a weekly newsletter packed with obsessively-curated recommendations. Sign up if you like and get my newsletter delivered right to your Inbox via this link.

Latest Newsletters:

Newsletter #1: Health and Wellness, San Antonio Travel Guide, Supplements for Immune Support

Newsletter #2: Best Buys 2021, Savannah Travel Guide, Rum Cake Recipe

Newsletter #3: Favorite Books, Movies, Shows, Podcasts, Apps, Food of 2021, Portland, Marine Travel Guide, Green Smoothie Recipe

Recent Blog Posts:
Best Buys 2021

Austin Travel Guide

*Products purchased through Amazon links may earn a very small commission. This is used to pay for the expense of running the website. I only share products I use or recommend.

Here are the best products I purchased in 2020:

1.     STEAMER: This steamer does not leak like some of the other compact sizes. It’s small enough that it can be used for travel. I also love the design.

2.    HAND WARMER: I purchased this electric hand warmer because I was using so many disposable hand warmers. It has three adjustable temperatures and can last for up to eight hours. It also works as a phone charger.

3.    TOUCAN HAT PACKABLE WIDE BOW SUNHAT: This is the perfect packable hat for travel. The bow is available in several colors.

4.    BISSELL STEAM MOP: I use the Bissell Steam Mop to clean my tile and hardwood floors. It cleans and sanitizes hard floors with the natural power of steam instead of harsh chemicals.

5.    PILATES IQ REFORMER: Since my local Pilates studio closed, I decided to invest in this reformer. There are several online pilates reformer classes. I like Pilates on Fifth and Pilates Anytime. Both offer a free trial subscription.

6.    FELLOW ELECTRIC POUR OVER KETTLE: This kettle is so beautiful displayed on my stovetop. It heats up super fast and will hold its heat for 60 minutes. You can even adjust the temperature, with the range being 135°F to 212°F.

7.    HEILALA PURE VANILLA PASTE: For serious bakers, this is the best vanilla ever! I use Heilala Pure Vanilla Extract and Heila Pure Vanilla Paste.

8.    MIELE COMPACT VACUUM: Since my Dyson vacuum needed to be replaced, I ordered the Miele Compact Vaccum. It is so powerful and has multiple settings for rugs, tile, and hardwood floors.

9.   ChiliPAD SLEEP SYSTEM: The ChiliPad Sleep System has made an enormous difference in how I sleep. The ChiliPad Sleep System is a mattress pad with a cooling and heating temperature control system. It regulates the surface temperature of your mattress by actively circulating water through a network of micro tubes. If you are having hot flashes or night sweats, the ChiliPad Sleep System may help you sleep better. I like to use it instead of an electric blanket during cold nights.

10.  SECRET TREASURE TIGHTS: I wear these tights with my work uniform. They are a great price and very comfortable.

11.  MEGASPOREBIOTIC: I have consistently taken probiotics for many years. This brand works well for me without side effects like headaches and bloating. I also recommend the MegaMucosa Support Formula for anyone with digestion issues like IBS, Leaky Gut, and constipation.

12.  BULLETPROOF CHOCOLATE DIPPED COLLAGEN BARS: These bars taste so good. They are also keto friendly.

Best Buys 2019

What products did you fall in love with in 2020? Tell me in the comments.

You May Have Missed:

Favorite Things

Favorite Beauty Products

Link Love: Can Your Employer Require Shots? + Glutathione and Immune System + Recipes + Tech Tips

Products in this post may contain Amazon affiliate links.

The latest installment of products that I’m currently enjoying. I hope you find some inspiration for your gift-giving and some new things to discover for yourself!

1.    MAISON de SABRÉ PHONE CASE: My favorite new iPhone case. MAISON de SABRE offers complimentary monogramming in gold or silver foil. Never grab the wrong phone from the table again.

2.   LELE SADOUGHI MASKS: I purchased several packs of Lele Sadoughi masks for work. I like the designs and more importantly the fit and comfort of these masks! I’ve gotten so many compliments on all of them! Most designs feature a contoured fit, two-layer design, super soft t-shirt lining, adjustable elastic ear straps, and an opening for a filter pocket. Here’s a link on where to order filters online.

3.    BOY SMELLS WICK TRIMMER:  I use this wick trimmer which is pretty enough to leave out by candles on a countertop. Once you open up a new candle, the first thing to do is trim the wick. It should be about 1/8″ high. Keeping it short means you’ll have more control of the flame, therefore keeping the candle clean.

4.    HOUSE DRESSES: I love the designs from Hill House Home.

5.    GLASS STRAWS: These are so pretty and great for travel. They also don’t leave an unpleasant metal taste in your mouth like stainless steel straws.

6.    CUYANA WALLET: I invested in the Cuyana wallet to match my Cuyana tote. I also love the zipper wallet. Cuyana products are a great investment.

7.    OSMOSIS HAND SANITIZER: This hand sanitizer does not irritate or dry out my skin. Alcohol-based rubs are also generally less irritating than constant hand washing.

8.    YEAR & DAY: If you’ve been on the hunt for a full set of dishes that are minimal and chic at the same time, Year & Day’s product offering is it.  You can mix and match the full semi-matte ceramics collection because the brand specifically made the line in colors that all look good together. I use the Millenial Pink design.

9.    LELE DADOUGHI PEARL EAR WARMER: Since I do not like wearing earmuffs, I ordered this stylish ear warmer. It is soft and fits perfectly. I also get so many compliments on the style.

10.  VIGILANTE TIN LIZZIE ESPRESSO: I use this espresso at home with my Breville Espresso machine. Tin Lizzie espresso is inspired by the Italian-style of espresso, known for its heavy body, deep chocolate, and caramel tones. When combined with milk, the espresso stands out creating a toasty and chocolatey sweetness in each drink. It tastes great with any nut milk. I use the Nutramilk to make nut milk at home. Vigilante offers free shipping on orders over $25.00. Check their social media accounts for specials.

11.  TRUE COMFORT: Kristen Cavallari’s new cookbook contains over 100 easy recipes. Kristen collaborated with Chef Mike Kubiesa. The recipes are gluten-free and most do not contain dairy or sugar. You can also make substitutions for dietary restrictions with these recipes.

12.  JENI’S DAIRY FREE COLD BREW WITH COCONUT CREAM ICE CREAM: This ice cream is made with a coconut cream base and tastes like a latte.

P.S. What are some of your favorite things?

You May Have Missed:

My Favorite Beauty Products

Some links may contain affliate links.

The latest installment of some of my favorite products that I’m currently enjoying or coveting. I hope you find some inspiration for your gift-giving and some new things to discover for yourself!

1.    PORTER CERAMIC TO-GO MUG: I use this mug when I travel. The slick style is made of BPA-free plastic and dishwasher safe. Most coffee shops offer a discount for using your mug..

2.    THERA-GUN: TheraGun is a unique handheld device applied to the surface of the skin to boost healing and recovery. I use it after exercising and at night before I go to sleep.

3.    REBEL KETO ICE CREAM: The most delicious low carb, high fat, keto, no sugar added ice cream.

4.    PELETON BIKE: I am crazy about this workout. I tested the Peloton bike in a hotel gym. Peloton partners with hotels across the U.S. You can also schedule a test class at a Peloton studio.

I can work out at home anytime and choose from over 100 live classes each week and access on-demand rides from the massive library.  My favorite instructor is Denis Morton. I like working out to country music, and Peloton offers country rides. They also have fun theme rides.

Peloton is not going anywhere. They just made a public offering on the New York Stock Exchange. If you are visiting New York, you can take a class at the Peloton Studio in Chelsea. You can also schedule a class using Class Pass. I use Class Pass when I travel to take fitness classes at a reduced rate. Instead of paying $25 or more for a class, I can take classes for $10 or less depending on demand.

Peloton offers a no-risk 30-day trial. If you purchase the bike, you pay $39 a month membership for the classes. The Peloton app includes full-body workouts, stretching, yoga, running and more classes you can stream.

5.    CUYANA LEATHER ZIPPER TOTE: The Cuyana is elegant and relatively affordable, costing less than $200 for a bag that’s made in America out of Italian leather. I use the tote organization insert to keep my bag organized.

6.   URSA MAJOR DEODORANT: I tried several natural deodorants and Ursa Major was the most effective. It eliminates underarm odor while absorbing excess moisture and does not irritate my skin.

7.    MADE IN COOKWARE: The cookware line Made In features premium-quality cookware at a discounted cost made in America. It’s popular with chefs. I really love my Made In Cookware. I think it’s better than All-Clad.

8.    PRIMAL BLUEPRINT PROBIOTICS: I use these probiotics developed by Mark Sission. This particular probiotic contains Bacillus coagulans. Many probiotics cannot survive the harsh conditions of the stomach and never reach the gut. Bacillus coagulans are extremely tolerant of acidic conditions and survive transit to reach and colonize the gut.

If you have digestive issues, I can’t stress enough the importance of taking a probiotic supplement.

I also recommend Primal Kitchen Salad Dressings, Avocado Oil, Protein Bars, and condiments. Be sure to read Mark’s Daily Apple. Download the Feedly app to read your favorite blogs.

9.    MAISON FRANCIS KURKDIJAN AQUA FABRIC SOFTENER: It adds the best smell to workout clothes and sheets.

10.  EUFY ROBOVAC: This affordable robot vacuum is quieter and fits under more furniture than many others.

11.   SONOS SPEAKERS: Sonos speakers work seamlessly with your favorite streaming services. The Sonos One is the perfect starter speaker for most people. It’s reasonably priced and can be moved from one room to another with ease. It’s easy to set-up using the Sonos Controller app on my iPhone. The sound quality is amazing.

12.  VORNADO FAN: This fan is so great I don’t need an air conditioner. I mostly use it when I ride my Peloton bike.

What are some of your favorite things? Tell me in the comments.

P.S. YOU MAY HAVE MISSED:

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Here are my favorite items I purchased in 2018:

1.    TARGET FIELDCREST RESERVE BATH TOWELS: If you want to spend less for plush terry towels, the Target Fieldcrest Reserve Bath Towel is a good-quality towel at a bargain price.

2.    DYSON AIRWRAP: I have made an effort to protect my hair from heat damage by investing in the Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer and Dyson Airwrap. The Dyson Airwrap is easy to use. It’s clipless and sucks your hair onto the wand, and as you move the wand closer to your scalp, it automatically curls hair around the wand. No twirling, clipping, or wrapping. I also recommend the Dyson Supersonic hair dryer. Both products keep my hair smooth and healthy looking. By investing in quality products, I am saving money by styling my hair myself. I do not go to blow dry bars. I also use Oribe styling products.

3.    APPLE AIRPODS: The clarity and sound-quality for conversations is unparalleled. Already have AirPods? Install this cool program on your Mac computer so you can connect your AirPods with one click.

4.    KIRKLAND SIGNATURE EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL: The best olive oil according to chefs. This is the best deal at Costco. It is also the olive oil Chef Samin Nosrat recommends in her best-selling book Salt, Fat, Acid Heat: Mastering the Elements of Good Cooking. If you are looking to improve your cooking skills, it is a must-read. It also makes a great gift for newlyweds and college grads. She also has a show on Netflix.

5.    SIETE TORTILLAS AND CHIPS: The best grain free tortillas and chips on the market. I prefer this brand over any other brand based on the taste. If you have celiac disease or follow a Paleo diet or similar program, you must try their products!

6.   BREVILLE ORACLE ESPRESSO MACHINE: I decided to invest in a good quality espresso machine for my home. I was spending way too much money at local coffee shops when I could make my own drinks at home. The Breville Oracle is remarkably easy to use, despite how complicated and fancy it looks. It’s also great for entertaining guests in your home.

7.   NORWEX ODOUR ELIMINATOR: Odour Eliminator from Norwex is an enzyme-based, organic odor-remover that can be sprayed in the air, around or on the source of the odor. Odour Eliminator works to remove the source of the odor, rather than simply masking it. If you have pets, this works great to alleviate pet odors. I love that the smell does not give me a headache.

8.   NURTAMILK: The Nutramilk makes a variety of nut butter and milks in a short amount of time. You can use a VitaMix to make nut milks, but you have to soak the nuts overnight then strain the milk, while this does everything for you. It will save a ton of money after a few months of use and is worth the investment.

9.    WEATHERMAN UMBRELLA: I finally found an umbrella that is durable and stylish. It’s truly the best umbrella you’ll ever use. Weatherman was designed by a meteorologist.

10.  PALEO CHEF KETCHUP: This ketchup tastes delicious with NO added sugars or high-fructose corn syrup. I also use the steak sauce for marinades. Check out Steve’s other products. Everything is gluten-free, and Paleo approved.

11.  LASKO HEATER: I use this heater in my bathroom and when I’m working at my desk. It provides just the right amount of heat during the cold winter months.

12.  IKEA DISH TOWELS: I use this insanely cheap cloth for everything from cleaning up spills to drying herbs. They are a steal at 80 cents each. Buy several at a time like I do and don’t fret when it’s time to toss one.

What products did you fall in love with in 2018? Tell me in the comments.

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