Things I Love Thursday // 1.16.20

• Harvest & Moon - Mariah Oller is a cellular biologist turned Tarot card reader who happens to be incredibly talented, absolutely darling, and an amazing conduit to connect you with your spirit. Yep. All of that and more. Tarot is something I've always been curious about and celebrating my birthday this year, I decided to treat myself (and my girlfriends) to Tarot readings. If you've ever considered Tarot as an approach to tapping into some clarity, do check out Harvest & Moon. Even if you're not in Charlotte, Mariah offers virtual readings too!
  
  
  
  
  
• Pillow Talk - Ok. Yes. I do enjoy pillow talk but the type I'm referring to in this case is Charlotte Tilbury's lipstick that I found in my stocking on Christmas. (Combo with the liner is no longer available but you can buy it separately here.) I can't tell you how many glosses, lipsticks, balms, and stains I've tried. You already know how much I LOVE Stainiac (so good!) --and now you can add this combo from Tilbury to your short list. I first heard about this color from another blogger, I'm sure (who may have read one of the multiple praises from beauty reviewers like this one). What I find great about it is that the neutral-pink tone looks good on lots of skin tones. The lipstick is creamy and smooth without any stickiness and it lasts too (admittedly though, not as well as a stain). This shade is a great step up from a basic nude without looking like "too much." I'm a fan.
  
  
  
  
  
• gorjana - Our family spent the holiday on the west coast, sharing time between Portland, Oregon and Southern California. When we were with our friends in Laguna Beach, I was introduced to the Laguna-based jewelry company, "gorjana." Love, love, loved the pieces --especially the layerable, delicate necklaces. (I'm a sucker for a necklace!) However, it was literally just past Christmas and while I was taking advantage of some of the sales, I really wasn't doing to much shopping for myself. Flash forward to the day after we returned from our trip: My girlfriend, Tracie, took me out for an early birthday lunch and gave me THIS. Unbelievable. "You've heard of gojana??" she asked. And so I launched into the story as I unwrapped a most perfect necklace with the biggest smile on my face. (It's adjustable even!) Sadly, gojana does not yet have a storefront in North Carolina; however, they do have a great online store and lucky for you, Nordstrom now carries the line in case you want to have a look in-person.
  
• City Stems - (Making a second appearance here on TILT because I'm obsessed.) The secret is OUT. Not only is she one of the *best* people I know and love, but Laura Hughes of City Stems is so outrageously talented that if you want to get on her schedule for a holiday or big event, then you best get in line. Laura creates the most beautiful plant and floral creations you've ever seen. I think the magic about City Stems is that Laura is not only exceedingly gifted with an eye for style and detail --she an incredible listener. She works to understand your style/vibe/vision and then executes something that captures the idea and makes you feel completely understood. Listen, I know I'm a bit crazy about plants and this little ballad to Laura might seem a bit over-the-top but I'm telling you: This is special. Remember her name. Follow her Instagram. Get on her list. Treat yo' self and those you love. 
  
  
  
  
  
• Hemleva - Speaking of loving plants, this little number arrived in the sweetest birthday package from my friend, Simone, and she couldn't know be better. Ha! I also have this beauty on my keyring and wouldn't mind adding this to my Hemleva collection. 
  
  
  
  
  
• Warm cake in bed - Thanks to my friend, Gretchen, our family has adopted the tradition of waking up the birthday person on their special day with warm cake. Depending on the day of the week when the birthday falls, it can be an early morning --especially for me who is the cake-baker and sharer of birthdays with our youngest. ;) It's and easy and sweet tradition (pun intended) and if you use the box mix, like me, than not too difficult to execute. Just remember to serve your frosting on the side because it will melt or crumble the cake if you try to smear it on top. And remember to put the candle in the frosting and not the warm cake, as the wax will melt inside the cake and the candles will fall over before you can quietly crack the bedroom door open and start the quiet singing of the birthday song!
  
  
  
  
  
• Dermot Kennedy - Not only to have Gretchen to thank for warm birthday cake in bed, I also have to thank her for introducing me to Dermot Kennedy. She mentioned him like 2 days ago and I've been listening nonstop. Before that, I was living under a rock. Here he is performing Outnumbered on Jimmy Kimmel and here's a link to listen to him sing Power Over Me on Ellen (from May of 2019!). If you like those and are interested, here he is acoustically performing with a small gospel choir on NPR's Tiny Desk Concert. Yeah... so "HI! It's me... just crawling out from under this rock." AND... Dermot is coming to Charlotte in February and I'm going! *Fangirl swoons*
  
  
  
  
  
• Bloody Mary Bar - I love when a vision comes together in the way that you imagined. That's what happened when I put together this bloody mary bar last week. I looked at all kinds of ideas on Pinterest and found a bit of this and that around the house (tray, stand, jars, letterboard...). The fun part was deciding what to offer as garnishes (photo taken before the plate of bacon was set out). While I usually start with a V8 base, adding spices, heat, fresh lime juice, horseradish, worcestershire, etcetera... I took the easy way this day and was SO pleased with (locally made) Bruce Julian's pre-made mix. Anyone for brunch??
  
  
  

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What I've Read Recently | December 2019

Off to a good start in 2020. 

Here it is, not even halfway through January, and I'm putting the finishing touches 

on my list of books from December. {takes a bow} 

It was a lovely month of holiday planning, travel, celebrating, and family. 

I found lots of opportunities to read and I hope you did too. 

May this new year offer you plenty of time for stories!

The First Girl Child by Amy Harmon

From Goodreads:

From ​the New York Times bestselling author comes a breathtaking fantasy of a cursed kingdom, warring clans, and unexpected salvation.

What I thought: 8.5/10 (Listened to on Audible)

As soon as I finished listening to Amy Harmon's What the Wind Knows, I chose another novel from her to listen to next. Though a completely different book than the first, The First Girl Child was also amazing! The story is sweeping, the characters so so interesting, and the drama is balanced beautifully by the relationships that are described so richly. Even if Sci-Fi/Fantasy is not your jam, do yourself a solid and give this book a chance. I think there's something for everyone. 

Ask Again, Yes by Mary Beth Keane

From Goodreads:

A profoundly moving novel about two neighboring families in a suburban town, the bond between their children, a tragedy that reverberates over four decades, the daily intimacies of marriage, and the power of forgiveness.

What I thought: 7.5/10

Parts of this book were very compelling and the character development was excellent; however, I felt like the story dragged at certain points and I had a hard time understanding some of the motivations. Having said that, I think Keane did a great job putting the reader within the messiness of a complicated family drama that deals with some very heavy themes: alcoholism, mental illness, abandonment, and infidelity... This novel demonstrates the ways in which life is complicated and fluid. There is also a lot of forgiveness, love, and tenderness here as well. This one is not a "light read" but if you feel like taking up a sweeping family drama --this is perfect for you!

The Pigman by Paul Zindel

From Goodreads:

In The Pigman, what begins as a teenage prank soon becomes a timeless examination of grief, acceptance, and the transformative power of friendship.

What I thought: 8.5/10

My 7th grader was assigned this book for her Language Arts class. It has been compared to The Outsiders and Catcher in the Rye and the tone feels similar to these two works. The Pigman was written in 1968 and until she told me I needed to order her a copy, I had never heard of it. So when the unassuming little paperback arrived from Amazon, I decided to sit down and read it. With its honest and sparse prose, first-person narrative through the lens of the two main characters, and a plot that is simple yet emotionally challenging, it's no wonder this little novel is considered a "groundbreaking young adult classic." It's hard to say more without giving too much away. If you're interested, this quick read would definitely be worth your time.

The Dutch House by Ann Patchett
From Goodreads:

Set over the course of five decades, The Dutch House is a dark fairy tale about two smart people who cannot overcome their past. Despite every outward sign of success, Danny and Maeve are only truly comfortable when they’re together.

What I thought: 9.5/10 (Listened on Audible)

This book (on Audible) launched to the top of my "To Read" list when David Sedaris sang its praises and those of Tom Hanks (narrator) when I had the pleasure of hearing him (David) speak in Early December. I just realized that this is only the second book by Ann Patchett that I've read. The first was Bel Canto and if you've been following along, you already know that Bel Canto is one of my all-time favorite books. I'm adding The Dutch House to that small list of perfect books and finally getting the message: I need to treat myself to more of this author. Some reviewers have mentioned they felt The Dutch House was slow at times. I never felt anything less than completely wrapped up in the story --given even the fact that I listened to it in "stop and go" spurts as I ran errands and lived my normal car life. This is a sibling story that is told with incredible warmth, depth, and honesty. The relationship between Danny and Maeve is what you might dream of for your own children. Obviously they're not perfect and perhaps there are other relationships in their individual lives that suffer because of their bond --or perhaps they're destined for challenging relationships because of their childhoods and thank goodness they have one another and their unshakable love (which is how I choose to see it). This book is a gift.

Nothing to See Here by Kevin Wilson

From Goodreads:

Kevin Wilson’s best book yet—a moving and uproarious novel about a woman who finds meaning in her life when she begins caring for two children with remarkable and disturbing abilities.

What I thought: 9/10 (Listened on Audible)
You guys! This book! I'm telling you... it's SO very good. I don't know how Kevin Wilson was able to write such a heartfelt, (darkly) funny, endearing, and warm (pun intended) novel about a pair of 10 year old twins who occasionally burst into flame --but that is what he has done. I loved this book. Ultimately, I found the story to be about love, acceptance, loyalty, and faith. The fact that the kids caught on fire never distracted from the heart of this story --it became instead, a perfect way to demonstrate what love ought to look like when you've found the people with whom you belong. To top it all off --the narrator was brilliant and I laughed my ass off. (Also, if bad words offend your senses learn to get over that because you're missing out.)

Catch and Kill: Lies, Spies, and a Conspiracy to Protect Predators by Ronan Farrow

From Goodreads:

In a dramatic account of violence and espionage, Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative reporter Ronan Farrow exposes serial abusers and a cabal of powerful interests hell-bent on covering up the truth, at any cost.

What I thought: 8/10
Wow. If you think you know about the #metoo movement and what you know absolutely pisses you off --then pick this book up and light your anger on fire! This book was so disturbing. How these men got away with such blatant and disgusting behavior for as long as they did is baffling --and yet not so unbelievable, really. Sadly. The writing and the research are excellent. I think this is an important read no matter who you are --but if your the parent of a daughter, then especially so.

Lock Every Door by Riley Sager

From Goodreads:

No visitors. No nights spent away from the apartment. No disturbing the other residents, all of whom are rich or famous or both. These are the only rules for Jules Larsen's new job as an apartment sitter at the Bartholomew, one of Manhattan's most high-profile and mysterious buildings.

What I thought: 7.5/10
So many good books in December! Don't leave this one off your list. I was not expecting to enjoy this book as much as I ultimately did. In fact, when I was finished reading it, I kept telling everyone about it because I found it to be unique and entertaining. This page-turner has a few flaws (I'll let you decide for yourself) however, it was captivating and each twist left me trying to re-piece the puzzle. Lock Every Door is the first book by Riley Sager that I've picked up. Several reviews were quite scathing as they compared this work to his other two novels: The Last Time I Lied and Final Girls. Sounds like I'll be adding those to my short list!

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Things I Love Lately

This is the last Things I Love for 2019... It’s been so nice to get back to the blog this year and carve out this simple time for myself writing my lists, sharing some recipes, and reflecting on the books I’ve read. Thank you for reading along!

• Family - My family. Our family. Your family. All of the families in any composition. The holidays can be hard for so many people. Many of us have “complicated” relationships with family members. We all have loved ones we miss —especially during this time of year. While we needn’t wait to remind those around us how much we love and appreciate them —the idea of wrapping up the year and embarking on a new one certainly lends itself to reflecting on our relationships and taking stock of our blessings. This time with one another is a gift that I try not to take for granted. So hear this: I love you!
  
  
  
   
• Snoogling (verb) - Through the holidays and all of the year, physical affection fills my bucket. Winter break means lazy mornings, pajama days, movie-watching, visiting family and friends... all of the situations that create opportunities for extra hugs, cuddles, and curling into our loved ones. So grab a blanket and get your cuddle on!
  
  
  
  
  
• Snacking - This time of year is full of all of the yummy things! While I do enjoy sweets from time to time, my weaknesses are more on the salty, creamy, rich and crunchy end of the Sinful Spectrum. I love homemade ChexMix (that I grew up making with my cousins in my grandmother’s kitchen and now enjoy because my girl, Sara, gifts us this favorite). I completely overdid it this December on Neese’s Sausage Dip (which couldn’t be an easier crowd-pleaser). I dare you to have just one chip-full. For the fancier occasion, I could have made and devoured several of Half Baked Harvest’s Brie and Cranberry Pull-Apart Breads. Good grief! This one will delight the savory and the sweet cravings in every delicious pinch! We rang in our Christmas Eve (a day early —given our travel itinerary) with our traditional viewing of Die Hard and Piper made the cutest Santa Hat Brownies! Christmas wouldn’t be complete without my mom and sister’s homemade brittles. And nothing beats a beautiful cheese and charcuterie board (with Oregon honeycomb, pickled veggies, and marcona almonds served alongside a chilled glass of champagne)! Cheers to enjoying the season with every BITE!
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
• People Who Work on Christmas - New this year, we traveled across the country on Christmas morning. It wasn’t exactly the way we planned it (flights were moved after booking) but it was fairly painless. From the Uber driver on the East Coast at 5:30am to the car rental agent on the West Coast upon arrival, everyone we interacted with was cheerful and friendly (and genuinely delighted by our little mint gifts).
  
  
  
  
  
• H&M Sweater - I packed two of these for our trip out west and have been reminded how much I appreciate the simple details that make this cozy and affordable sweater one of my go-to items. I love the v-neck and I love the seam that runs down the front. Give it a French tuck into your waistband and you’re nearly set to go. They do run on the big side. I have one in orange (XS) and one in a darker brown (S) that for some reason isn't offered on this link (but the lighter brown looks tempting).
• A Well-Received Gift - I could not have been more delighted to receive a sweet text from my friend Megan about how much her family is enjoying the gift of Rosemary Olive Oil that I delivered in the week leading up to Christmas. *such happiness* She had been drizzling it over tons of holiday yumminess and the most recent addition was to Oysters Rockefeller. Look at this! 
  
• A New Year - It’s easy to love a new year —especially when your birthday falls within a week of ringing it in! I’m not one of those people who cringes at the idea of “another” birthday. On the contrary, I love my birthday. Anyone who knows me knows that I’ll celebrate just about anything (and my birthday celebrations typically last most of January). The fact that our youngest shares my birthday only makes it more special. While I do joke that I GAVE her my birthday (almost) 13 years ago —leaving me “forever 33” ...the truth is, I’m happy to be growing older and enjoying this life we’ve built. I honestly never imagined one so full and satisfying. I look forward to pausing throughout 2020 to think about and acknowledge all of the “Things I Love...” —whether it’s a book, a recipe, a lipgloss, a hug from my kid, a date with the hubby, the kindness of strangers, or something that made me giggle... I hope if it makes you happy, you’ll read along. Cheers to 2020!
  
  
  

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What I've Read Recently | November 2019

Here we are again at nearly the beginning of January and I'm just getting around to telling you 

about what I read (and chose not to finish) in November. 

Better late than never?

The Unbearable Lightness of Being by Milan Kundera

From Goodreads:

This magnificent novel juxtaposes geographically distant places, brilliant and playful reflections, and a variety of styles, to take its place as perhaps the major achievement of one of the world’s truly great writers.

What I thought: 0/10 (Listened to on Audible)

I couldn't even finish this book! Ugh. First translated to english in 1984 and winner of the Los Angles Times Book Prize for Fiction, it is rated over 4 stars (out of 5) on Goodreads by more than 300,000 readers. Obviously, I'm not clever enough to "get it." The story (if you could call it that) is about infidelity and the writing jumps around all over the place. The only think you can count on is being annoyed by the author's philosophical musing that litter the pages and try to spoon feed the reader a specific interpretation of the events. I didn't care about any of the characters and they certainly didn't care about one another either.

The Islanders by Meg Mitchell Moore

From Goodreads:

Over the twelve short weeks of summer, these three strangers will meet and grow close, will share secrets and bury lies. And as the promise of June turns into the chilly nights of August, the truth will come out, forcing each of them to decide what they value most, and what they are willing to give up to keep it.

What I thought: 6/10

This was a solid "Beach Read" but the trouble was, I wasn't at the beach when I read it which may have left me longing for a bit more substance in the story. Told from the point of view of three people living on a small island during peak tourist season, there's lots of quintessential settings brought forth on the page (loved that) and the character development was good, given the brevity of the book and the number of voices in the story; however, it dragged in some spots and in the end, felt a little too "Hallmark Movie" for me. This book is for those who love a breezy read, (To be clear, I sometimes do enjoy a breezy read myself. I guess I just wasn't in the mood this time.)

The Huntress by Kate Quinn
From Goodreads:

From the author of the New York Times and USA Today bestselling novel, The Alice Network, comes another fascinating historical novel about a battle-haunted English journalist and a Russian female bomber pilot who join forces to track the Huntress, a Nazi war criminal gone to ground in America.

What I thought: 9/10

I loved this book. I've read my share of WWII historical fiction and have been a fan of most of it. What I found to be special about The Huntress were the strong female "leads" and the fascinating female villain. This book explores a dark and upsetting aspect (as if there were any other kind) of the Nazi program of which I had been ignorant. Additionally, I learned of the Soviet Night Witches --a remarkable and very real all-female regiment of the Red Army lead by Marina Raskova. This book was told from the point of view of three main characters and Kate Quinn does so masterfully. 

A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness

From Goodreads:

Deep in the stacks of Oxford's Bodleian Library, young scholar Diana Bishop unwittingly calls up a bewitched alchemical manuscript in the course of her research. Descended from an old and distinguished line of witches, Diana wants nothing to do with sorcery; so after a furtive glance and a few notes, she banishes the book to the stacks. But her discovery sets a fantastical underworld stirring, and a horde of daemons, witches, and vampires soon descends upon the library. Diana has stumbled upon a coveted treasure lost for centuries-and she is the only creature who can break its spell.

What I thought: 6/10

This is the first book in the All Souls Trilogy that had been on my "to-read" list since early 2013! I love a good vampire/witch story and this one had its moments. There was a lot here to sink your teeth into (pun totally intended and presented to you without shame) in terms of story detail and weaving a web to support the forthcoming story (big build into what looks to be a war between witches, vampires, and daemons all living among humans). Having said that, the "romance" and relationship angst between many of the characters came across thinly in both dialogue and internal thoughts. You know how everyone loves Star Wars but if you just concentrate on the dialogue then it's kinda laughable and juvenile? Yeah, that's how this felt. Which is to say, I will definitely watch the television series and might pick up the next installment, Shadow of Night, someday (perhaps 6 more years out?).

What the Wind Knows by Amy Harmon

Adapted from Goodreads:

Anne Gallagher grows up in America with her Irish grandfather. After his death, she returns to his childhood home to spread is ashes and is pulled into another time. She finds herself in 1921. Ireland is teetering on the edge of war. Upon awakening, Anne finds herself hurt, disoriented, and under the care of Dr. Thomas Smith, guardian to a young boy who is oddly familiar. Mistaken for the boy’s long-missing mother, Anne adopts her identity, convinced the woman’s disappearance is connected to her own.

What I thought: 8.5/10 (Listened on Audible)

I really enjoyed this book! I listened on Audible and the narrator was exceptional. If you liked Outlander, I imagine you would like this too. Both are time-traveling Irish stories --but please don't let that be a turn-off for you either if you've never read any of the Outlander series and are immediately disinterested in "sci-fi time-traveling." To be honest, I didn't care for the Outlander series. (In book form, that is. I did enjoy the first few seasons of the television series.) What the Wind Knows was romantic and rich in storyline and the historical happenings of the time. I learned so much about the Ireland in the early 1920s as tensions grew with Britain. This story is heartbreaking and passionate and told beautifully. I hope you pick it up!

Normal People by Sally Rooney

From Goodreads:

At school Connell and Marianne pretend not to know each other. He’s popular while she is lonely and intensely private. A strange and indelible connection grows between the two teenagers. Later, they’re both studying at Trinity College in Dublin. Marianne has found her feet in a new social world while Connell hangs at the sidelines. Throughout their years in college, Marianne and Connell circle one another, straying toward other people and possibilities but always magnetically, irresistibly drawn back together. 

What I thought: 8/10

I loved the writing in this book. The pace was exceptional and I found the character's interactions with one another to be honest and believable. The tension between the characters came through clearly in the passages. I was captivated by Connell and Marianne's relationship. This is not your typical love story. Some might hesitate to classify it as "love" at all --but that's what I'm calling it. I appreciated how Rooney made me feel uncomfortable at times. This story doesn't make you feel good. I found it to be a provocative puzzle about friendship and growing up. Again, I would describe it as a love story but no one would say it was romantic. Normal People was both refreshing and disturbing as it unfolded through the perspective/psyche of these characters. 

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Things I Love Thursday // 12.19.19

• My People - The girls are out of school after Friday and it can't get here soon enough. I love when they're home and we can all enjoy relaxing mornings and lazy days. We're heading to see family and friends for the holidays and there's lots to do before now and then but I believe we'll have fun getting it done (and believing is half the battle). HA!
  
  
  
  
  
• Middle School Band Concerts - Ok. To be fair, chances are I would not "love" just any middle school band concert --but to be clear, I most definitely LOVE to see our flute and French horn players perform with their peers under the direction of their very talented music teacher. They'd hate for me to post pictures of them playing --but you can trust me that they are not only talented --they're super cute too!
• Getting my cards OUT - It almost didn't happen this year... I wasn't feeling super inspired and the thought of putting a bunch of effort into a photo session seemed overwhelming to all of us. We managed to put a silly little something together and there was absolutely zero prep needed. I'll share next time. The important point right now is that they're all addressed, stamped, and out of my house!
  
  
  
  
  
• The Practice of Medicine - Y'all... I acquired a little head cold over Thanksgiving: lots of congestion, low fever. It lasted a few days and then dropped into my chest. I developed a sore throat and cough. The cough kept me (and the Mister) up for a few days but then it went away and the cold moved back up to my head. I hadn't been feeling well at all --but not bad enough that I couldn't still do All. Of. The. Things. Friday rolled around and it was Greg's holiday work party. The night was freezing and wet. The party was fantastic. I mean, fan-tas-tic. I had a LOT of fun. All day Saturday I felt miserable --but chalked it up to all the Friday Fun I had (if you're picking up what I'm laying down). Anyhoo... Saturday night was nearly unbearable. I couldn't sleep at all because of the pain and pressure in my FACE. Ugh. Went to Urgent Care on Sunday afternoon, got diagnosed with a sinus infection, got on the meds (and the treatment plan), and now I'm felling so so so much better! Yay for doctors! Yay for medicine! Super Yay for sinus rinsing systems (for real)!
• Zabar's Cinnamon Babka - Some of our favorite friends brought this to us after their visit to New York. OMG. It's unreal. It's not a hyperbole when I say that this little loaf of loveliness is bursting with yummy! It's been over a year since we first enjoyed the treat and we were all so thrilled to have received another delivery this last week! I didn't know you could order this online and now that I know, it might become a problem.
  
  
  
  
  
• Brunch with friends - We enjoyed the most indulgent brunch with some of our best friends this weekend. The four of us + the five of them = a good time. Always. The festive atmosphere, amazing food, excellent wine, giggles, and shared love made it all the more delightful. Reach out to your loves, set a date, plan a gathering, spend some good time with one another. So good for the heart. 
• Homemade treats - I usually try to put something together over the holidays for our friends. One ambitious year I embroidered jar tops and then filled the jars (with what, I don't even remember). I usually make many trays of Easy Toffee and package that up. Last year, I was gifted a jar of homemade rosemary olive oil by our babysitter-extraordinare. I loved it so much that as soon as I ran out, I asked her for the recipe and using the huge rosemary bush in our backyard, I whipped up another jar for myself (adding just a little garlic this time). I blogged about making it at the time and considered making a huge batch to gift this season. Guess what?? I got it done. Delivery will happen over the next few days. Check. Do you ever make gifts? What are your favorites to gift and to receive?
  
  
  

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Things I Love Thursday // 12.12.19

• Old Navy Jacket - I love, love, love this camel-colored sherpa jacket from Old Navy. It's super cozy and I feel almost as cute as Fozzie Bear when I'm wearing it! I bought mine on sale for about 40% off and I'm sure they're running any number of sales between now and Christmas; however, they are almost sold out (sorry) but do have MEDIUMS left in stock (which is what I' wearing). 
  
  
  
  
  
• The Holiday Shop at Children's Theatre of Charlotte - I've been volunteering with The Children's Theatre of Charlotte ever since we moved to North Carolina. The event that hooked me that first year is still my favorite. We just wrapped up this year's event which runs annually, the week after Thanksgiving. Thousands of gifts are purchased, wrapped, and organized over many months of volunteer hours, then we open our doors for hundreds of little shoppers between the ages of 2-10. Each shopper comes with a list of loved ones and a budget (about $10-$20). They are paired with a volunteer "Elf" who takes them into the secret shopping room and helps them select special presents for their family and friends. The children are so happy to be able to choose gifts for mommy, daddy, siblings, and pets (among others). Many shoppers come through our line on scholarship (funds raised through CTC's "Sponsor-a-Child" fundraiser in the fall) and are able to leave with a bag full of gifts they would otherwise not be able to afford. I'm telling you --it is a busy and tiring week but also so rewarding and worth every effort to pull it off. This year was the 47th! 
  
  

  

  A few of my very favorite volunteer elves.

• Knives Out - Oh my goodness! What a great time! Our whole family loved this movie. It's a light, funny, thoughtful mystery that captures your attention and carries it along for a fantastic ride. The characters are outrageous but not over-played, the plot will keep you engaged and surprised, and the warmth of the story comes through in a delightfully surprising way. See it.
  
  

  

  {Photo via Washington Square News}

• Uncle Bobby! - My little brother is here! Yahoo! It's always a treat to have Uncle Bobby in town. He's smiling 90% of the time. As long as you have eggs in the fridge, he's happy. He never met a sink of dishes he couldn't conquer (without prompting). He loves Richard Parker (maybe even more than we do). His favorite phrase is, "Do you need any help?" He shleps all of the bags all of the time. Also, he's the best company as I drag him all over town getting things checked off my to-do list. 
  
  

  

  ("One Trip Bob" There are SIX bags in his left hand.)

• Elf in the OPEN - What I mean is, our girls are well-aware at this point that Elvis Peppermint Kate Jones does not actually fly back and forth to the North Pole every night and that his movement around our home is reliant on mom and dad remembering to shift his position at some point between sleeping and waking. But the squirrels (my forever nickname for the girls) continue to appreciate the tradition of him. With our flipped schedules these days (Greg and I are usually in bed before the girls head upstairs), Elvis commonly moves in the morning hours over a cup of coffee. If, for some reason (the only reason: we forgot) he doesn't --it's met with understanding and a whisper, "We're going to look for Elvis soon..." I'm also happy to be done with the idea that a little elf visits my kids every day in December so he can spy on them and then fly back to Santa in order to tattle. Did anyone else struggle with this part? I don't know... we certainly chose to buy the doll and book all those years ago... but then it started to feel like a shitty manipulation. Am I'm overthinking it? And on that note, of those of you who heard, "If you don't believe, you won't receive" --Are you telling your kids this same thing? 
  
  
  

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Things I Love Thursday // 12.5.19

• Cousin Love - We had so much fun last week hosting Greg's sister and her family for the Thanksgiving holiday. Of course, we loved having Grandma Lulu here too --but there's definitely something special about having a 2YO squish in the house! He was full of love and adventure, giggles and curiosity. He was generous with his hugs and kisses and always found a cozy lap. We already miss him so much!
  
  
  
  
  
• Holiday Cards - Receiving holiday cards from across the country is a highlight of the year. Having moved several times during our marriage, we have had the pleasure to meet so many wonderful friends from coast to coast. With social media, we do get a peek into one another's lives from time to time --but I love the tradition of snail mail and opening the envelopes to see who's inside. This year feels like a crunch with December rolling in so quickly on the heels of Thanksgiving. I usually try to put something clever together for our annual card but inspiration was late in coming... It was a scramble and I'm happy to say that cards have been ordered (finally). I'm satisfied with the result. We shall wait to see if anyone else is. LOL! Here is my absolute favorite card (from 2016).
  
  
  
  
  
• Twinkling Yard Lights - Another highlight of the season is enjoying all the lights that decorate the yards in every neighborhood. I always think to myself, "Why don't we have these up all year round? They look so beautiful and festive..." But then I remember also thinking, come early February, "Wow! Where did the time go? I supposed we should take the lights down now... and I think the dried up tree might be a fire hazard... perhaps we should make some time to undecorated it and get it out of the living room." (Just kidding. We always have our tree down by late-January.)
  
  
  
  
  
• Advent Calendars - I love an advent calendar and so do my girls. This 12 day version from Trader Joe's looks like it might be a total winner! For $20 you get to try Winter Citrus Hand Cream, Coconut Body Butter, Rose Facial Oil, Brown Sugar Body Scrub, Cranberry Cider Shimmer Body Wash, Blueberry & Acai Facial Scrub, Enrich Face Lotion, Charcoal Face Mask, All-for-One Shampoo/Conditioner/Body Wash, Exfoliating Sugar Cube, Warm Vanilla Body Butter, and Pomegranate Lip Balm. Pick one up if you have a chance and start your party no later than December 14th to get through the treats before Christmas!
  
  
  
  
  
• Sparkly Hair - Call the dentist and make an advance appointment. My husband is so sweet that this next bit might give you a cavity just reading it. I am WAY overdue to touch up the color in my hair and cover my greys. I'm not entirely sure why this has been such a challenge of late --I have a box of dye under my bathroom sink right now (and I'm so practiced at applying it --it literally takes only 15-20 minutes added to my typical routine). The delay has been, in part, to the fact that my bangs are helping to mask the heavier grey areas at the temples and hairline. Anyhoo... I was standing in the kitchen a few days ago with the light blasting in through the window (and clearly onto my crown of wiry grey sprouts) when Greg, standing beside me, declared, "I know you'll cover them over and that's totally fine too --but I just want to say that I really love your sparkly hair." Good grief. The sweetest. I might have caught diabetes from his comment. When I do get around to coloring my hair, I will use this because it's so easy!
  
  
  

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Things I'm Thankful For Thursday // 11.28.19

• Family - My sister-in-law and her family arrived early yesterday morning and my mother-in-law came yesterday evening. We are so happy to have a houseful for the holiday and grateful that they flew across the country to spend it with us.
  
  
  
  
  
• Friendliness - People who naturally and consistently make eye-contact and smile at others throughout the day have a special place in my heart. Throw in a "hello" and I'm liable to get weepy. 
• Coffee - I'm thankful for coffee. I'm especially thankful for my husband who preps the pot before bed in the evening and has a steaming cup waiting for me when I come downstairs every morning. 
  
  
  
• Clean Laundry - Our dryer broke last week. I'm thankful for the functioning one at our friends' house down the street! They generously offered the use of their set until our new one arrives tomorrow. Black Friday, y'all... good for appliances. A bonus to lugging the wash back and forth is the extra time throughout the day that I get to visit one of my favorite families. 
• Holiday Jammies - If loving these $16 Walmart pajamas is wrong, then I don't want to be right. These are so soft, it's unreal. I think they're some kind of velour with a little stretch and give. I love the red piping at the collar and cuffs. These will draw extra hugs from all of your family members --even the surly teenagers will want to be close to you again. They run true to size (check the chart in the link).
  
  
  
  
  
• Thyme & Table - Are you familiar with this Walmart brand? I'm hardly ever in Walmart and this week I visited to browse the holiday offerings. While I was there, I perused many aisles and came away with the awesome pajamas (above) --as well as some other fantastic finds. These measuring cups and spoons match my kitchen perfectly. I love the brass utensils too. 
  
  
  
  
  
• Better Homes & Gardens Acacia Serving Pieces - I also spent a lot of time in this aisle talking myself out of buying everything. These heavy wooden pieces are gorgeous, in person. This tray with brass handles was very tempting (in case anyone reading this needs Christmas ideas for me)... but I came away with the cake stand instead...
  
  
  
  
  
• Candy Canes - Simple and festive. I piled a bunch on the my new cake stand and set it up by the front door. I also added a sweet ceramic house that's also a (battery operated) votive holder and a little flannel tree that I found in the ornament section. (The house was $5 at Walmart --but not available online. Here is a similar one from Target, a red one from Walmart, these from Crate and Barrel, and cute speckled one from Kohl's.)
  
  
  
  
  
• Sales - Benefit is offering 25% off and free shipping in case you want to treat yourself to a new eyebrow system. Gap is offering 50% off (code BLKFRIDAY) and an additional 10% off (code BESTEVER) in case you want to pick up one of my favorite sweaters. The Body Shop has 40% off and free shopping if you're still considering the amazing Japanese Camellia Cream. 
• Kringle - This authentic Racine Danish Kringle is amazing. These usually make an appearance at Trader Joe's in the weeks leading up to the holidays. This year did not disappoint. Almond is my favorite but Raspberry is pretty great too. The crust if perfectly buttery and flaky and the filling is a great balance to the pastry. Please pick one up if you see this. Trader Joe's sells these for about $7; However, I've seen them at specialty shops for as much as $26. No worries if you find them too early --just keep them frozen until the night before you're ready to enjoy!
  
  
  

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