Kitchen Staples #Holiday2026

For me, a lot of the best things about things about the holidays happen in the kitchen! Check out these great finds!

The mission at Ocean Bottle is to fight against this flow of plastic. Bringing people together to prevent the equivalent of 10 billion plastic bottles from entering the ocean by 2030. The Ocean Bottle Peak range is the next evolution of the award-winning design. Reimagined to go further - slimmer, stronger, and smarter, without compromise. Made from 90% recycled stainless steel and embedded with NFC technology to connect to the App, every Peak bottle doesn’t just keep you moving - it powers real-world impact. One bottle funds the collection of 1,000 ocean-bound plastic bottles.

Gigawatt Coffee Roasters is one of about 1% of roasters worldwide using fluid bed air roasting. Instead of tumbling in a hot drum, the beans are suspended in a bed of hot air so nothing scorches against hot metal. The cup comes out clean, smooth, and never bitter or burnt. We have had the pleasure of trying their coffee several times, and Jason has deemed the Kite & Key Blend his favorite. Though it was hard to choose! The best-selling medium dark roast, with notes of dark chocolate, walnut, and caramel, from coffees grown in Colombia, Brazil, Guatemala, and Costa Rica. Or for the coffee lover in your life, get a Sample Pack! Perfect!

Le Sauce & Co. has some amazing sauces to make your life a little easier when it comes to cooking. Le Sauce & Co. exists to help you turn everyday into a gourmet food experience without the added time or effort. We got to try some of the gravies. And can I just tell you, I wanted to just get a spoon and eat right out of the bag! So good!

~Hayley

 Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. I have used direct text from the website of the company/product I am promoting to facilitate in my review.

Get A Head Start On Holiday Shopping #Holiday2026

For me, it is never too early to prepare for the Holiday Season! And I love to get gifts for absolutely everyone on my list, as well as items to help me entertain and enjoy the entire season! Check out these great finds!

Have You Landed? by Emma Comery - In this collection of literary profiles, Emma Comery weaves together interviews and research to explore what it means to be the partner of someone in the military. These depictions offer an intimate narrative of the marriages, family dynamics, and interior lives of military partners: the young wife of an intelligence officer who finds herself in the middle of Nevada, a Marine Corps spouse caught in the crossfire of a foreign riot, a therapist who recognizes the signs of mental illness in her own husband, and a new mother who doesn’t know she’s kissing her husband goodbye for the last time. Have You Landed offers nuanced portraits of life across the U.S. military - Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and National Guard - and includes the experiences of wives, husbands, partners, widows, and exes. It describes life as a modern military partner and the commitment to a lifestyle that often challenges our notions of love, family, strength, and self.

Packed with Purpose’s Gift Baskets for co-workers, friends, everyone on your list! These gift baskets feature thoughtfully curated everyday favorites, which can include a speckled ceramic mug, softcover journal, and chocolate-covered pretzels. The gift also supports meaningful social impact, with each purchase supporting employment and job training for veterans while investing in purpose-driven small business makers across the U.S.

Crafted in the Rocky Mountains, McCaffrey Granola uses clean, thoughtfully sourced ingredients to fuel active days and healthy living. Always all-natural, gluten-free, and non-GMO, the granola delivers superior taste without compromise. The perfect fuel for your family.

Cobra Fire Blanket by Mart Cobra is a compact, ready-to-deploy fire blanket that smothers small fires fast by cutting off the oxygen they need. Made of 430+ GSM 100% fiberglass, it handles grease, electrical, and clothing fires with no fumes, residue, or cleanup. Measures 40" x 40" and stores in a high-visibility red pouch with quick-release pull tabs for fast access and easy wall mounting. Ideal for kitchens, cars, RVs, offices, grills, and camping, and can be wrapped around a person during escape.

Eastern Accents is a premier luxury soft goods brand and manufacturer. Their bedding, decorative pillows, drapery, and upholstery are designed and hand-crafted in Chicago studios. We have several throw pillows from them and love them all. They are great accent pieces, but also very functional and comfortable!

Camille Torres Designs Imaginal Cell Collection is American-made jewelry, hand-crafted in small batches from recycled sterling silver in Ashland, Oregon. Each piece is named for a stage of the monarch's transformation. Inspired by the monarch, these designs transform the familiar wing into sculptural, lace-like forms that feel distinctive without reading as traditional butterfly jewelry. The collection includes bright and oxidized sterling silver as well as pieces featuring 24K gold applied using the ancient Korean technique of Keum-boo. I got these beautiful Chrysalis earrings and am so in love with them.

NOON is a drinkable breakfast with 20g of protein, 5g of fiber, no seed oils or added sugars, made with milk and oats. Filled with nutrients and made with real ingredients, NOON is the perfect option during busy days. NOON reimagines breakfast for the modern American household - a grab-and-go complete meal built from real milk and whole oats. Flavors: Milk Chocolate, Creamy Vanilla, Honey Banana. All of the flavors are great, and I use this on my busy mornings while rushing out the door for work! It is fantastic!

Pinguino Cleaning Supplies is one of my new fave brands! They create premium cleaning products that combine advanced technology with thoughtful design. For everyday messes, the product delivers superior performance every time. The Complete Cleaning Set includes a Magic Wand, refill sponges, scour pads, a scrub holder, and a Sponge King set. Designed to tackle grease, grime, dishes, sinks, countertops, and more. Safe on most kitchen surfaces while providing powerful cleaning action. Comfortable wand handle with easy sponge replacement for everyday use. Manufactured by Pinguino Purified Water for reliable household cleaning performance.

~Hayley

Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. I have used direct text from the website of the company/product I am promoting to facilitate in my review.

Amazing Gifts & Finds For #Summer2026 #MomsDadsGrads2026

Summer celebrations are in full swing, with Graduations happening all over, and Dad's Day coming up fast! Here are some great finds for all your Summer Celebrations!

This Finisterre swimsuit is a perfect piece of summer fashion for the ladies in the family! Made with recycled material, well-made, and flattering. It is time to hit the beach or the pool! I felt confident in this, and I really like the pattern! Great quality, too!

Budsies makes custom stuffed animals. They can do everything from turning kids' art into plushies (Budsies), turning people - including military personnel and kiddos in graduation gear - into plushies for the family to hug while they are deployed (Selfies), and if you have pets, we make stuffed animal replicas too (Petsies). We got something from the Petsies line! Bobbleheads of our animals! They take the real photos that you send in and create these custom-made, cute little bobbleheads of your animals as a wonderful keepsake! A perfect gift for anyone who loves their animals and wants to memorialize them in to something fun! The pic above is of our Gracie, Louie, and Glory!

Need a new read? The Ledger by Steven Manchester is set in a medium-security penitentiary in the mid-1990s. The Ledger is a faith-based story that pulls back the curtain on prison life, allowing the reader a safe peek behind the wall. Although told from three alternating perspectives - officer, inmate, and sergeant - many of the same questions are asked: Can light be found in the deepest darkness? What about forgiveness, redemption, and grace? If the code is clear, “loyalty above all things except honor,” when should an officer cross the blue line to police one of his own? 

A little treat in a cup! Perfect for when you just need something sweet! JarJoy is a fast growing fast and continues to gain new retail chains wanting to sell the yummy dessert cups. Some of the top retailers include: Publix, ShopRite, Hy-Vee, Meijer, and soon Wegmans as everyday items in their dairy desserts section near milk/eggs. Also, for special promotions, they show up in Aldi and Costco stores. So good! I could not pick a favorite! All of them!

Morning Lift is a delicious, instant coffee that is infused with 6 potent mushroom extracts and organic superfoods to help you feel sharper, lighter, and more energized. Just one scoop can help sharpen your mind and focus for a more productive day as well as promote healthy digestion, gut balance, and fewer cravings. 

Eastern Accents is a Chicago company that designs and manufactures luxury bedding, furniture, and fabrics here in the US. We got some awesome throw pillows that are so beautiful and well-made, as well as comfy! And! They can do custom in their DesignLab! We got a pillow for Callan to celebrate his next steps along his journey, and it is so beautiful, I almost cried when I saw it! Plus, he loves it! The photo does not do justice to how gorgeous it is! A fun, unique gift! 

~Hayley

Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. I have used direct text from the website of the company/product I am promoting to facilitate in my review.

Fun Finds For #MomsDadsGrads2026

As the season comes into full swing, with Mother's Day right around the corner, and Graduations happening all over, and Dad to celebrate soon, here are some great finds for gifts, care packages, or just because!

TeeRex is a business that focuses on creating "Dad Joke" t-shirts that would be great for a Father's Day gift. They feature funny shirts like "100 Acre Hood" - a Gangster Winnie The Pooh that makes a pun off the magical world of the 100 Acre Hood. They also specialize in funny movie references from the late 1990s - early 2000s, which fit exactly with the father demographic! They have unisex shirts, so Mom, or anyone, can get in on the fun too!

Whether you’re staying active, exploring new destinations, or relaxing after a long day, Bombshell Sportwear's versatile essentials make it easy to look and feel your best. Perfect for Mom or the off-to-college young woman who wants to be comfortable, no matter what she's doing!

From happiness expert and NYT bestselling author Gretchen Rubin, the "I Want You to Know" Journal is designed to solve the what do I say? problem. It’s an easy-to-fill-out portrait of a loved one that uses thought-provoking prompts (like "A habit of yours I secretly find endearing is...") to help the giver create a personalized tribute. It’s a way for adult children to finally tell their parents what they mean to them, moving beyond a standard card. Parents can fill it out for a graduating senior as a "survival guide" of love and memories to take to college or their first job. It’s designed to be completed quickly but kept forever.

Ink & Magnets - Hand-pressed custom photo magnets with pictures - get them off your phone and display them! See them every day! Such a great gift! We love magnets as keepsakes. This is the perfect heartfelt gift that anyone can use!

Unhinged Trinkets is a fun online shop that makes tiny magnetic hinge toppers that sit on door hinges like little “door pets.” They’re a fun gift for Moms, Dads, or Grads moving into a dorm, apartment, or first home. They’re small, affordable, and a little different from the usual gift-guide picks. A fun little memory item, too! I love these!

Enamio Remineralizing Gum -  Actively rebuilds and strengthens enamel. Prevents cavities and reduces sensitivity. Gently polishes and whitens teeth. Lasting Remineralization after chewing. Neutralizes harmful acids and bacteria. Delivers long-lasting fresh breath. Perfect for active people on the go!

~Hayley

Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. I have used direct text from the website of the company/product I am promoting to facilitate in my review.

Food & Drink, Includes Health & Wellness #MomsDadsGrads2026

This year is a big one for me as a Mom of a Grad! He is moving on to bigger and better things, and I will be an Empty-Nester! It is an exciting time, but also very stressful, and change is scary! So this summer, we are really focusing on health, relaxation, and self-care! Here are some amazing finds to assist with all of that, and more!

Mitra9’s Non-Alcoholic Botanical Seltzers - Mitra9 is a Florida-based beverage brand making waves with its functional, plant-based drinks - crafted to help people relax, unwind, or focus without alcohol. These aren't your average NA seltzers - they’re infused with ingredients like Kava to support mood and mental clarity, and have quickly become a favorite for those seeking a more mindful drinking experience. This is my new nighttime fave - helps me sleep and I am not hungover in the morning.

Mighty Maca is a delicious, powerful, restorative superfood drink mix. Mighty Maca’s nutrient-rich formula contains ingredients that may support the body's natural processes, contribute to normal energy levels, and promote digestive comfort. With a slew of other amazing benefits, Mighty Maca is a must-have for your daily routine!

Bright & Beautiful is a specially formulated blend that works on natural repair for healthy skin, hair, and eyes. It promotes healthy production of the skin's oils to support overall skin health and cellular repair while supporting dry eye relief. Bright & Beautiful will have you shining from the inside out! 

Norse Code Protein is a premium plant-based protein powder in Chocolate and Vanilla that works as a thoughtful self-care or wellness gift for adults who want easy daily nutrition. Low sugar, smooth texture, no chalky finish, and easy to enjoy as a warm drink or blended shake. It feels practical and elevated at the same time. Chocolate and Vanilla make it easy to use every day, and the product appeals to adults looking for a simple wellness upgrade rather than a hardcore fitness supplement.

Gigawatt Coffee Roasters is an air-roasted coffee company based outside Chicago that sells direct-to-consumer online nationwide and does 250+ farmers' markets and events a year. The Gigawatt Coffee Sample Pack makes a great gift for any coffee-loving mom, dad, or new grad. Five 3-oz bags of the most popular coffees, each a different origin and roast profile. Every bag brews a full 12-cup pot, so it's not a novelty gift that's gone in one morning. It's enough coffee to actually explore and find a favorite.

Spice World is known for its high-quality, ready-to-use garlic, ginger, and onion, along with globally inspired seasoning blends. While simple, these are the kinds of everyday essentials that make thoughtful, practical gifts for anyone who enjoys cooking, hosting, or just making meals a little easier and more flavorful. These products help streamline prep while delivering bold, fresh flavor across everything from weeknight meals to more elevated dishes like marinades, sauces, and spreads. They also bring added wellness benefits, with ingredients like garlic supporting immune health, ginger offering anti-inflammatory properties, and onion contributing to gut health. We were so excited to get this package! Spices we use every day, and some we don't - like the fresh peeled ginger! We were able to cook some new meals with new flavors! So fun! And yummy!

Nama delivers American-farmed, premium hemp-infused products and does it in a way that tastes great. Nama has effective plant-based products fully infused and so delicious, you will find something to help you relax, sleep, for daytime, nighttime, anytime! I am absolutely in love with this brand!

~Hayley

Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. I have used direct text from the website of the company/product I am promoting to facilitate in my review.

Food & Treats For The New Year #NewYear2026

We love to try new foods and drinks, and what better time than the New Year to find something you will love all year long! Check out these finds:

Amasar is a Puerto Rico/US-based company pioneering breadfruit as a sustainable, naturally gluten-free, and nutrient-dense ingredient, with currently 3 non-GMO skus includes breadfruit flour, waffle mix, and pancake mix, sourced at a woman-owned, 20-acre breadfruit agroforestry farm and state-of-the-art manufacturing facility.

The Juicy Drop Gummy Mystery Cube is a playful “peel and reveal” gummy treat featuring a peelable outer layer that reveals a surprise 3D animal-shaped gummy inside, delivering a multi-texture, multi-flavor experience that’s as fun to discover as it is to eat. Developed in partnership with viral candy innovators Amos, the cube brings edible entertainment straight to kids, teens, and nostalgic adults alike.

The Pale Rosé 2023 is a chic, refreshingly dry rosé that brings Côte d’Azur style to any celebration. Created by renowned winemaker Sacha Lichine, the mind behind Whispering Angel, this wine captures the glamour and ease of the French Riviera in every sip. It’s the ultimate bottle for gatherings, brunches, and cozy nights by the fire when something light, elegant, and effortlessly stylish is in order. Pale pink in the glass, it opens with delicate aromas of peach, red currant, and citrus blossom. The palate is crisp and lively with bright berry flavors, subtle minerality, and a clean, refreshing finish.

The 2024 Lloyd Cellars Sauvignon Blanc is a bright, expressive white. Released this past July 2025, it’s crafted for life’s spontaneous, joy-filled moments like impromptu dinner parties, festive gatherings, or quiet nights by the fire. It’s a bottle that feels as special as the season itself. Sourced from California’s Central Coast, this vintage balances coastal freshness with refined texture, delivering a wine that’s as versatile as it is elegant. Shimmering pale gold in the glass, it opens with aromas of Meyer lemon, white peach, and jasmine, layered with notes of wet stone and fresh herbs.

A kid in a candy store! Remember the thrill of entering a candy store and selecting from the countless options? Sweet Trolley brings that magic back - one premium, nostalgia-packed delivery at a time. Whether it’s for a valued client, a hard-working employee, or someone you love, each Sweet Trolley gift sparks joy, fuels connection, and leaves a lasting impression.

~Hayley

Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. I have used direct text from the website of the company/product I am promoting to facilitate in my review.

Health & Wellness Products For The New Year #NewYear2026

Every year, it is nice to start fresh on a health and wellness routine. Here are some products to help get you going on the journey and keep you on the right path!

MyBladder by Purity Products is a thoughtful choice for anyone looking to support comfort, confidence, and everyday urinary wellness. Powered by UROX, an award-winning blend backed by more than 15 years of research, MyBladder helps support normal bladder control, urinary tract health, and healthy bladder strength and tone. Formulated with Cratevox stem bark extract, Horsetail extract, and Lindera root extract, this gentle, plant-based formula is suitable for both women and men, and 84% of users report satisfaction after just eight weeks.

Introducing my female readers to your new Breast Friend for 2026! The new, patented Karya Tank Top is a modern wardrobe upgrade! The tank top has a built-in bra (with actual support, not a shelf bra), so it’s basically a 2-in-1, versatile first layer. It works as a cami on its own, or a bra substitute under sweaters and blazers; it’s a top so comfortable you can even sleep in it.

In Your Face Skincare is a woman-founded luxury skincare brand focused on wellness, self-care, and everyday rituals that actually feel good to maintain. Their approach to the New Year is less about drastic change and more about small upgrades that support consistency - formulas that nourish the skin, feel indulgent, and fit easily into real life. A few New Year-friendly picks include:

The Cream – the best-selling, deeply hydrating moisturizer designed to support firmer-looking, more radiant skin.

Bio-Peptide Firming Serum – a lightweight, rejuvenating serum that supports skin bounce and renewal.

Exfoliating Glow Body Polish – a gentle, spa-like body exfoliant that helps reset dry winter skin. All of the products are cruelty-free, thoughtfully formulated, and packaged in recyclable glass, making them a great fit for wellness-minded readers looking to start the year feeling cared for rather than overwhelmed.

Enamio gum is a natural, plastic/rubber-free chewing gum made from ancient tree sap known as chicle. Traditional gum is made with the same rubber as your car tire, which releases a ton of microplastics as you chew. (I had no idea!!!) Enamio gum also contains 7 active remineralizing agents to support oral and enamel health. Great for anyone looking to improve their oral health going into the new year!

My new fave product that blends self-care and recovery is the Magnesium Balm and Gua Sha Ritual Set from Dr. Doug’s. The Magnesium Balm is deeply moisturizing, fast-absorbing, and designed to ease post-workout tension, soreness, and everyday stress. The Gua Sha encourages circulation, relaxation, and mindful self-care - perfect for a quick reset or evening wind-down.

~Hayley

Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. I have used direct text from the website of the company/product I am promoting to facilitate in my review.

Last Minute Holiday Mist-Haves #Holiday2025

Check out these last-minute finds for great gifts for the Holidays, or something new for the upcoming New Year!

The Unofficial Christmas Movie Coloring Book by Valentin Ramon

Cozy up next to the fire, grab your favorite coloring tools, and relax into the holidays by coloring your way through scenes from the very best cult-classic Christmas movies.

Bumbleberry Hollows Coloring Book by Faith Varvara

Unleash your creativity and de-stress while coloring whimsical dreamscapes, cute chibi creatures, and adorable scenes from popular Instagram artist @faithvarvara of Trendy Not shop and the Bumbleberry Hollows family of characters.

SPI West Port, the creators of ALO Drink, the #1 aloe vera beverage brand in the U.S. and Canada, and Jenji Boba Tea, have relaunched its heralded Woodridge Snacks brand, offering a truly original line of better-for-you taste sensations drawing flavor inspiration from culinary traditions around the world. Lovingly crafted to meet the growing desire among consumers and retailers alike for boldly adventurous and culturally authentic international products that are every bit as wholesome as they are delicious, all affordably-priced Woodridge Snacks products are vegan, sustainably-sourced, non-GMO, low-calorie, free of artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. The new relaunch is highlighted by the introduction of three delectably nutritious product lines that allow American consumers to explore the uniquely appealing flavors of lands far away without a gift that’s equal parts beautifully made and mentally grounding.

You know the type: their thoughts live across 72 Chrome tabs, 14 voice memos, and a note titled “brain fog.” Baronfig is the analog upgrade they didn’t know they needed. It’s a subtle invitation to slow down, log off, and write like they mean it. Try this combo for a great gift -  Squire Hex Pen: A weighty, refillable writing tool designed to live on their desk for years. Available in 8 collector-worthy colors, including Cactus and Magenta. Refills come in black, blue, red, and green. Confidant Notebook: Thread-bound and lay-flat, with thick paper that feels luxurious under a pen. Not just for journaling, this one’s built to handle ideas with staying power. Together, they say, “You’ve got good ideas. Let’s give them a proper place.” Baronfig builds “tools for thinkers” with lasting impact: refillable, recyclable, and responsibly made. Every journal plants a tree. Every pen is a nudge back to presence.

Here are some fun, affordable, and actually effective beauty and wellness finds that make the best stocking stuffers. Wholesome Hippy is the viral wellness brand known for clean, plant-powered formulas, and these picks are perfect for beauty, wellness, and shopping features. Dehydrated Skin Rescue Serum: A deeply hydrating winter skin must-have that helps revive dull, thirsty skin. Foot Rescue Balm with Arnica: A soothing, recovery-focused balm, perfect for gym-goers, travelers, or anyone on their feet all day.

Snazzy Vibe Sips: crafted with real spirits, juices, and tea. Non-carbonated, decaf, and no malt liquor - just pure, smooth flavors in every sip. While they have vodka and lemonade, which is highly popular, they also offer Tequila, Rum, and Whiskey half and halfs too! Something for everyone!

~Hayley

Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. I have used direct text from the website of the company/product I am promoting to facilitate in my review.

Amazing Gift Ideas #Holiday2025

More amazing gift ideas and finds for the Holiday Season!

It's time to ditch the glitter balls. The world's first and only liquid bath bombs have arrived. TOA Waters, a Maryland-based self-care small business that’s redefining the way people relax, has unveiled the world’s first and only Liquid Bath Bombs, a revolutionary update to an old-time favorite. Designed with organic, plant-powered ingredients, these liquid bath bombs deliver a cleaner, longer-lasting, and more hydrating soak, without the glitter, residue, or dryness of traditional bath bombs.

Nicole Clarece has a new line of dresses designed for the real lives of active moms - the kind of women who leave a meeting, grab their kids from school, swing by the park, and maybe even sneak in a pickleball match - all before dinner. Instead of coming home and peeling off work clothes for sweats or “mom clothes,” these dresses give you that same comfort - but in a silhouette polished enough for the office, durable enough for the playground, and chic enough for cocktails. I got the Betty, and am so excited to wear it for our upcoming Holiday Cruise! Stay tuned to see a post when I wear it for Embarkation! Yay!

It can be hard to figure out what to do with all the artwork that kids create. This holiday season, parents can transform their kids’ masterpieces into the stars of their holiday cards. The cards, by Handwrytten, can be customized with any artwork or photograph, and robot elves armed with pens even learn your handwriting to make the holiday card creation and sending process as easy as Rudolph flying through the air. We sent a card to Callan, and he told me he didn't realize I had such nice handwriting, ha ha! But it was beautiful and so perfect! Plus super easy!

The Candy Land Candy Crafting Kits from Cricket’s Candy Creations and Hasbro turn the beloved board game into a hands-on, edible art project for kids and parents to enjoy together. Even with an older child, we enjoyed this family activity and had so much fun and laughter! The Deluxe “crEATable” Kit includes everything needed to build and decorate four colorful Candy Land worlds, from Lollipop Woods to King Kandy’s Castle. It’s a fun, screen-free way to get creative and spend quality time together during the holidays.

For a more meaningful and mission-driven gift idea this year, try The Comeback Collection from EmBOSSed Book Club - a self-development book box subscription that gives back in a powerful way. The box includes 12 transformative books - one for each month - designed to help readers reflect and grow. What makes this gift truly unique? For every box purchased, they send an identical set to someone incarcerated as part of the BOSS UP Reading Challenge. It’s a beautiful way to inspire personal growth and support second chances. They also include a free gift in the box of every subscriber, and incarcerated individuals receive a booklet of thought-provoking questions designed to spark personal insight, purpose, and meaningful change. They are an upcycled nonprofit that repurposes books, hires justice-impacted individuals, and ships with sustainability in mind. This is a meaningful, socially-conscious gift that truly stands out.

~Hayley

Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. I have used direct text from the website of the company/product I am promoting to facilitate in my review.