Lifestyle
-
Winter Skin Care Routine
I’ve been asked by several people about my winter skin care routine, so I’m finally writing a blog post detailing what I do routinely. (Click the blue words below for more product information.)
I’m going to start backwards and say the most important thing you can do for your skin is to remove your make-up at night. So, if you aren’t washing your face every night, start there. Next, incorporate a good night time moisturizer, a daily sunscreen and a regular scrub. Now, for the beauty junkies who already have a basic skin care routine in place – let’s get into the fun stuff. Note: I regularly try new products. I think it’s good for your skin to mix it up once in while. So, the products I’m using right now certainly aren’t the holy grail of face products; use what works best for your skin and fits into your budget. For example, you don’t need to use Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream at night – any quality moisturizer can work. Just find the right one for your skin type and if you aren’t sure talk with someone at Sephora, Ulta or any beauty counter and ask for samples or buy travel size sets before committing to full size containers.
Now, for my routine:
Exfoliate: In the morning before I get in the shower, I fill my Vanity Planet face steamer with distilled water. On the days that I wash my hair (every other day), I use Goop Glow Microderm face exfoliator in the shower.
Prep your Face: After my shower while my body lotion is soaking in, I turn on my face steamer and put on Goop Glow Vitamin C eye cream and a few drops of Drunk Elephant face oil. I’ll steam my face for a few minutes and then I use my Gua Sha stone to massage my face and to drain my sinuses and lymph nodes. If you’re new to using a gua sha, I suggest you just google “how to use a facial gua sha stone” for many different YouTube videos. (Side Note: I bought a gua sha for my Mom and at her next facial, her esthetician asked her what she was doing differently. Face massage makes a difference!) If I’m in a hurry, I’ll brush my teeth, put in hair products, etc. while I continue steaming my face and neck. However, if you have the time, lean into the face steamer and take good deep breaths to relax before you start the day. When you’re done steaming, unplug the steamer and empty the water reservoir so it dries out between uses to prevent any mildew from forming. Let your face dry naturally – do not wipe off the steam.
Moisturize and Protect: Once my face is dry, I mix a half dropper of Ilia tinted serum with SPF 40 and a very small amount of Saie Sunglow luminizer in my palm and apply that to my entire face including under my eyes. (Note: If my skin is feeling really dry, I’ll add a small amount of my night time lotion into the Ilia and Saie before I mix it up in my palm.) Once that sinks it, you’re ready for make-up.
Clean your Face: In the evening, I remove my eye make-up with Lancome eye make-up remover and then rub Clinique take the day off cleansing balm all over my face an eyes. I lay a hot, wet washcloth on my face for a few seconds to heat up the cleanser and open my pours. I wipe off my make-up, rinse the wash cloth and put the hot wet wash cloth back on my face for a few seconds and wipe a second time to remove any residual cleanser. (Tip: I buy packs of inexpensive wash cloths and use a clean one each night. I prefer gray or black so I don’t have to worry about leaving make-up stains.)
Treat and Moisturize: After cleansing, I apply a toner or serum followed by eye cream, face cream and my favorite Laneige night time lip balm. I’m currently on an Augustinus Bader skin care kick, but again you don’t need to use this brand. There are many high quality brands that will moisturize your face for less.
I recently started using the Higher Dose red light therapy on my face a couple times each week and I really think it’s making a difference. So, if you’re already doing everything else above, this is a fun item to add to your routine.
If you have a lot of sun damage or dry patches, consider incorporating additional items into your skincare routine like a Vitamin C+E serum (put this on in the morning before your sunscreen / serums) and overnight exfoliators like the Goop Glow Dark Spot Exfoliating Sleep Milk or a chemical peel like GoopGlow Glycolic Acid Overnight Peel. If you’ve never used a chemical peel, beware – it will tingle. I find it’s best to fan your face until it has finished drying. Only use the peel once or twice a week until your skin has built up a tolerance. (Don’t forget to use all of these products on your neck and chest!)
I know some of these products are expensive, but I haven’t had a professional facial in years and I think my skin looks better now then it did when I had facials every other month. So, if you do get professional facials, think about investing that money in equipment for regular at home use. A consistent routine is what will produce long-term results, don’t expect to see dramatic changes in a day or two. Please leave a comment below about your favorite winter skin care products. I’m always interested in trying new things.
Click on the three lines to the left of the word “lifestyle” at the top of this page and enter your email address to receive notifications by email when I post something new on this blog. Also, follow me on Instagram at cocktailsandgratitude for photos of cocktails, food, flowers, pets and travel.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn money from qualifying purchases.
-
Things I Love #33 – Amazon Prime Sale
Today starts the Amazon Prime Early Access Sale so I want to share items I’ve bought recently. Click on the blue words or photos below for more information or links to purchase.
The Drop Women’s Noa Trench. This trench is available in four colors. I already have a light tan trench coat so I went with black for this one.
The Drop Trench Coat The Drop Claudia Cuddle Hoodie Midi Dress. This dress is available in 7 different colors. I bought the charcoal and I’m excited to wear it with sneakers or booties.
Hoodie Midi Dress The Drop Iona Long Sleeve Hooded Mini Sweatshirt Dress. This dress was recommended to me by my niece. It’s available in twelve different colors and it’s a nice lightweight sweatshirt material for fall.
Long Sleeve Mini Sweatshirt Dress The Anrabess 1/4 Zip Slouchy Sweater. I love a good oversized sweater with a tank top and leggings in the winter. I have not received this sweater yet, but it has great reviews. (This brand has several FreePeople lookalike tops and sweaters.)
Women’s 1/4 Zip Sweater Oversized Sweater with contrast trim. Another great sweater for layering or to do a partial tuck. Available in many colors and pattern variations.
Oversized Crewneck Sweater The Drop Renata Rib Midi Dress. This sweater dress is available in black, mocha and white. The quality of this dress is really good and it is not itchy like some of the other sweater dresses I’ve ordered from Amazon.
The Drop Renata Rib Dress Bala Bangle Weights. These are available in both 1 pound and 2 pound options. I’ve had my eye on these weights for a while and now that they’re on sale, I think it’s time to purchase.
Bala Bangles The ice roller for face & eye puffiness, migraine pain relief and minor injury. I posted this in Things I Love #20. Store this roller in the freezer and if you’ve had a short night or are just feeling a little puffy, roll over your face to depuff and invigorate your skin. I’ve also used it for migraine relief.
Ice Roller Since Covid, I’m a huge fan of disposable hand towels in our guest bathroom.
Disposable Hand Towels This rattan holder fits the disposable towels above perfectly. (I bought an acrylic tray that was too small, so if buying a different holder, make sure to check the dimensions.)
Guest Towel Holder Another option to disposable guest hand towels is to buy a bulk pack of wash cloths. Don’t forget to have another basket for guests to place the wash cloth after they’ve dried their hands.
50 pack wash cloths What great deals are you finding during the Amazon Prime sale?
As an Amazon Associate, I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Click on the three lines to the left of the word “lifestyle” at the top of this page and enter your email address to receive notifications by email when I post something new on this blog. Also, follow me on Instagram at cocktailsandgratitude for photos of cocktails, food, flowers, my pets and travel.
-
Things I Love #32 – Advent Calendars
My friends and family know how much I love a good advent calendar. The idea of bringing a smile to the faces of my friends and family for 24 days in a row brings me joy. I know it seems early, but the really good advent calendars will sell out long before Thanksgiving. So, order your calendars now and they’ll be delivered before December 1st. I also created posts for advent calendars in 2021 and 2020 if you’d like even more advent calendar ideas. For more information or purchasing info, click on the blue words or photos below.
For the chocolate connoisseur in your life, send a gourmet chocolate advent calendar from Vosges.
Vosges Advent Calendar For the sock lover in your life, order the Happy Socks Calendar. Giving socks doesn’t have to be boring… this gift set includes 24 pairs of bright, fun socks.
Happy Socks Advent Calendar For the spa lover in your life, order the Rituals Advent Calendar. How cute is this advent calendar filled with 24 luxury bath, body and home products from Rituals? An adorable Christmas decoration for someone in a small apartment or dorm room.
Rituals Advent Calendar For the tea lover in your life, order the Palais des Thés limited edition holiday calendar. This calendar includes herbal, black, oolong, rooibos, detox and green teas.
Tea Advent Calendar For the Friends fanatic, order the Paladone Friends Advent Calendar. This calendar has 24 beauty products and includes: hand creams, bath bombs, lip balms, nail files and a body puff.
Friends Advent Calendar For the person who doesn’t need / want any more “things”, order the Mindfulness Advent Calendar filled with 24 activities to help someone enjoy and appreciate the season.
Mindfulness Advent Calendar For the baker in your life, order the Williams Sonoma Advent Calendar: 24 days of baking cookies. It includes 24 baking essentials from spatulas to piping bags and decorating tips.
Williams Sonoma Baking Advent Calendar Williams Sonoma offers several other food related advent calendars from candy to olive oil.
Williams Sonoma Advent Calendars For the wine drinker in your life, order the In Good Taste wine advent calendar. It includes 24 domestic and international premium wines. It’s a fun way to discover new brands and varietals.
In Good Taste Wine Advent Calendar For the serious whiskey drinker in your life, order this Flaviar advent calendar with 24 whiskey samples (includes bourbon, rye and scotch) a Glencairn glass and a tasting journal.
Flavor Whiskey Advent Calendar For the dog in your life, order this Himalayan treat calendar from Chewy or check your favorite pet store for additional treat and toy calendars.
Dog Treat Calendar For the cat in your life, order this Fancy Feast Advent Calendar with wet cat food and savory treats.
Fancy Feast Advent Calendar for Cats If you didn’t find an advent calendar that you love, or you just want to create your own, there are several reusable advent calendars which you can fill with your own treats / gifts.
Williams Sonoma Wood Advent Calendar 
Lighted Wood Advent Calendar 
Reusable Wood Advent Calendar 
Empty Advent Calendar Boxes Many stores and brands offer advent calendars, so if you have a favorite store (e.g. Sephora, Ulta, Bath & Body Works) or brand (e.g. L’Occitane, Olive & June, Sugarfina, Godiva.) Go to their website and search “advent calendar.”
I didn’t include the advent calendars I’ll be gifting this year, so my family will still be surprised with their calendars. If you’d like to know what calendars I’m gifting, send me a message and I’ll respond with a few more ideas. Please comment below with some of your favorite advent calendars to give or receive. And, remember, it’s ok to buy yourself an advent calendar.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Click on the three lines to the left of the word “lifestyle” at the top of this page and enter your email address to receive notifications by email when I post something new on this blog. Also, follow me on Instagram at cocktailsandgratitude for photos of cocktails, food, flowers, my pets and travel.
-
Things I Love #31 – Fall Edition
Below are some of my favorite fall purchases. Click on the photos or blue words below for more details and shopping links.
Sweetwater Decor candles I am a huge fan of Sweetwater Decor and I’m thrilled their line is now available on Amazon. I have their relaxation room scent and candle in my bedroom, I have the spa day scent in my bathroom and front porch. I recently purchased Pumpkin Spice, Hello Pumpkin and Sweater Weather which are scattered throughout my house. The candles are a soy wax blend that is hand poured in Pittsburg, PA. Most candles are available in glass (clear or amber) or stoneware jars (cream or black.) I have a stash of Sweetwater Decor candles in my cupboard for emergency gifts – because everyone loves a great candle!
Campfire Coffee Mug And, how cute is this sweater weather mug?! It’s available in 3 different styles, but I love using this campfire coffee style.
Outdoor Lights Since the days are getting shorter, I love looking outside and seeing these outdoor lights on my arbor and fence. They really brighten up the backyard. Don’t forget to order a box of replacement bulbs.
Animated Pumpkin This animated pumpkin is a riot. If you have kids or like to have something fun to set out for your trick-or-treaters, pick up one of these before they sell out.
Stretchy gloves These stretchy gloves are great for walking the dog or running errands during chilly fall mornings. I have pairs stashed in my car, my purse and several coat pockets.
Don’t forget to stock up on popcorn bowls, seasonings and cozy blankets for fall movie nights.
Comment below with some of your favorite fall things.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Click on the three lines to the left of the word “lifestyle” at the top of this page and enter your email address to receive notifications by email when I post something new on this blog. Also, follow me on Instagram at cocktailsandgratitude for photos of cocktails, food, flowers, my pets and travel.
-
Things I Love – #30
Advent Calendars
It’s time!! Order your advent calendars now before they’re out of stock. Click here for my list from last year and below are a few new calendars for 2021. (Click on the photos below or any blue words for more information or to shop.)
Lady M Advent Calendar This Lady M Advent Calendar is expensive at $80, but the wreath lights up and it includes 24 artisan chocolates and gummies. Order this for someone who loves quality chocolates and candies.
McCrea’s Caramels Advent Calendar McCrea’s Candies, a Massachusetts-based candy shop, created this advent calendar with 24 pieces of caramel in 12 different flavors. There are no nuts or soy in these caramels.
Advent Calendar Playlist The Advent Calendar Playlist has a QR code behind each number that will download a carol sung by an emerging artist. This a great idea for music lovers!
12 Nights of WineI recently shared a Vinebox tasting box with a friend and we had a great time learning about new wines. This box contains twelve world-class wines and each selection tells a story of a woman who is breaking down barriers in the world of wine. A great gift for the wine lovers in your life.
Sephora Advent Calendar The Sephora Advent Calendar contains 24 beauty surprises, including makeup, skincare, bath and accessories. Perfect for those who love trying new beauty products.
Wufers Advent Calendar for Dogs 
Trader Joe’s Advent Calendar for Cats Don’t forget about special treats for your pets. This Wufers cookie calendar is great for dogs and the Trader Joe’s Advent Calendar for cats includes a festive cat collar.
Comment below with your favorite advent calendars so I can add them to my list next year. Note: It’s perfectly acceptable to buy yourself an advent calendar!
As an Amazon Associate, I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Click on the three lines to the left of the word “lifestyle” at the top of this page and enter your email address to receive notifications by email when I post something new on this blog. Also, follow me on Instagram at cocktailsandgratitude for photos of cocktails, food, flowers, my pets and travel.
-
Things I Love #29
Preparing our home for fall.
Is anyone else enjoying the cooler nights? Things I love most about fall are throwing on a sweatshirt and leggings, wrapping up in a cozy blanket while reading a book and sitting by the bonfire with friends. Here are a few items that I’ve been buying to get our home ready for fall. (Click on the photos or blue words below for more information and to shop.)
Plants – I love gardening in our yard, but I’ve never been a house plant person. I had a corner in our dining room that I wanted to fill with a house plant for years and I finally took the plunge. In early August, I bought a few larger plants and some fun planters at a local garden store. (See my Instagram for photos.) I love the look of plants in the house and I think I found a new hobby. This week I bought a couple fun planter sets that I’m excited to fill.
Peach & Pebble Classic Ceramic Planter + Wood Stand – I was on the search for the perfect white planter on a wood stand and I found it. I bought both sizes of this pot and they are exactly what I wanted. Note: The pots have a drainage hole and do not come with a plug.
Peach and Pebble West Elm Dahlia Planter Set – I’m planning to buy this set for our Chicago showroom; but I wanted to see it before purchasing multiple sets, so I ordered one to be shipped to our home. I like it so much, I’m keeping the first set. In the showroom, I plan to display the pots and tray separately. Note: The pots have a drainage hole and come with a plug.
West Elm Dahlia Planter Set West Elm Calluna Planter Set – Same story as above, I’m buying this set for the Chicago showroom and wanted to check it out. However, I always had plans to keep this one for on top of our new bedroom dresser that will arrive later this month. Again, you can separate the marble tray from the brass pots. Note: These pots do not have drainage holes.
West Elm Calluna Planter Set Two helpful items I discovered are these planter fillers and a water / pH gauge. Also, I created a notes page on my phone for all of my new plants with information about the light and water levels they prefer; so when I’m not sure, I can reference my phone. I did second guess my water gauge once and ended up overwatering my Split Leaf Philodendron which isn’t very happy with me. I just couldn’t believe that plant could go over two weeks without any water… I guess the humidity is higher than I thought.
Planter Filler 
Water / pH gauge I love making our home cozy for Fall with candles and soft blankets.
Nest Pumpkin Chai Candle – Nothing says fall like the smell of pumpkin. If you look back through my posts, you’ll see I’m a huge Nest candle fan and their pumpkin candle has been in my seasonal rotation for years. Side note: The Nest Grapefruit candle is amazing in the kitchen during the summer.
Nest Pumpkin Chai Voluspa Spiced Pumpkin Latte Candle – Even though I’m not a pumpkin latte fan; I am a Voluspa candle fan and I love the look of this candle holder, so I might have to order one.
Voluspa Spiced Pumpkin Latte Barefoot Dreams In the Wild Throw Blanket – I bought this blanket during the Nordstrom sale for myself and a dear friend. It is so soft and cozy! John has decided it’s his new favorite blanket because it’s long enough to cover his entire body when laying on the couch. If this is more than you want to spend, there are similar styles for less here.
Barefoot Dreams Throw Blanket Nordstrom Ugg Plush Throw Blanket – I have this in cream and light blue. There are several other Ugg blanket styles on Amazon.
Ugg Coastline Plush Throw Blanket Leave a comment about what household items you buy each fall to make your home cozy and inviting.
My next post will be on cozy fall clothing. If you have any favorites, send them to me and maybe they’ll make my favorites list.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Click on the three lines to the left of the word “lifestyle” at the top of this page and enter your email address to receive notifications by email when I post something new on this blog. Also, follow me on Instagram at cocktailsandgratitude for photos of cocktails, food, flowers, my pets and travel.
-
Things I Love – #28
The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2021
The Nordstrom Anniversary sale is this month. This sale has great designer discounts and exclusive beauty product bundles you can’t find anywhere else. So get yourself over to the Nordstrom website and start a Wish List, even if you can’t shop yet. Put everything you like into your Wish List because some things will sell out before you are able to buy.
If you don’t have a Nordstrom card, but are a regular Nordstrom shopper, I highly suggest signing up for the credit card. If you’re not familiar with Nordstrom’s rewards program, it’s composed of four different levels: Icons (shoppers who spend upward of $15,000 a year), Ambassadors (shoppers who spend at least $5,000 a year), Influencers (shoppers who spend at least $2,000 a year), and Insiders (shoppers who spend at least $499 a year.) Each tier of the program has a different start date to the Anniversary sale. Icons were able to shop on July 12, Ambassador Level access begins July 14, Influencer Level access begins July 16, and the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale opens to everyone on July 28, running through August 8.
Here are a few things on my Wish List. I won’t be buying all of these, but this is my list to pick and choose from when I’m able to purchase. (Click on the blue words below for a direct link to the item(s) on the Nordstrom website.)
I love stocking up on quality candle sets during the Nordstrom sale. Not only is it nice to have a backstock of candles, but they make great gifts. (Starting from top left: Nest Grapefruit & Tangerine candles, Archipelago 5-piece Botanical Votives, Diptyque 5-piece Limited Edition, Nest 3-candle set.) The votive sets are really nice if you haven’t tried these particular scents before. Here are all the candles and home scents included in the Anniversary sale.)
Do you know someone who loves Napa, Aspen, Malibu or Big Sur? These Archipelago candles capture the essence of each of these areas and make an amazing gift for yourself or a friend.
One last candle fave… the Voluspa tin candles are so perfect for travel because you don’t have to worry about them breaking in your suitcase. There are several scent profiles included in the sale.
The next section is Beauty Bundles – some of these bundles are created exclusively for the Nordstrom sale and can’t found anywhere else, others are just a great deal.
La Mer Beauty Bundle If you’ve always wanted to try LaMer or you just want these great travel sizes, this is a good deal.
Lancome Bi-Facil Eye Makeup Remover This is the only eye makeup remover that I use and it takes off everything (including waterproof makeup) without scrubbing the delicate eye area. This set will last me at least a year and I love getting a fresh travel size bottle to refill.
My favorite L’Occitane products are this foaming oil body wash and their hand and body lotions.
The Herbivore body line is all natural and the Coconut milk bath soak is my favorite. I’m excited to try their coconut oil body polish.
Nécessaire Body These were on my Nordstrom sale list last year. I LOVE the Nécessaire Eucalyptus scent body wash and usually have one bottle in my shower with a back-up in my linen cupboard. The fragrance free body lotion is really rich and if you want to add a scent, just put a few drops of scented oil in your hand with the lotion when applying.
GloPRO Microneedling Tool Set I have the BeautyBio GloPro Microneedling tool and use it at least a few times every month. Microneedling gently rejuvenates skin from the inside out and it really helps your beauty products absorb into the skin. (Tip: remove the batteries from your tool when not in use to extend their life dramatically.)
Olaplex Bond Maintenance Set This Olaplex set will help reduce breakage and strengthen your hair. Great for those of use who color and / or use heat to style. I use this trio on my hair at least once a week and have seen a big improvement with fewer split ends.
Ok, onto some accessories…
How cute are these Carson Striped Tory Burch bags? The one on the left is more of a wallet on a chain and the one on the right is a small handbag. Both have gold chain straps.
If you need a new lug sole Chelsea ankle boot for winter, buy one during this sale. Here are two of my favorites from Marc Fisher and Tory Burch.
This Tory Burch crossbody bag makes a great date night bag. You can remove the strap, if you prefer a clutch.
This Kate Spade wallet comes in four different colors.
Gorjana Freshwater Pearl Stud Earrings. These are small and delicate. A simple, but dressy earring.
A couple cozy throw blankets. There are several blankets included in the sale if the two below aren’t your style.
This Barefoot Dreams throw is super cozy and it’s available in 12 different color combinations.
I bought this plush Ugg throw blanket in Ivory last year (for the front porch) and I think I might get it in light blue this year (for my bedroom.) There are six different colors available.
There’s always an Ugg genuine shearling slipper included in the sale. I like the thicker sole on this one, just in case you need to run outside.
If you haven’t tried Tommy John, this is a great time to do so. The fabric is super soft and the sleepwear and loungewear keeps you cool for anyone who gets warm at night.
Tommy John Second Skin Lounge Pants.
Cute Thread & Supply shirt jacket (4 different colors available) for cool fall nights on the patio or by the bonfire.
Treasure & Bond V-neck Sweater available in four colors.
Large rectangle Treasure & Bond Plaid Scarf available in three color ways.
Halogen Balloon Sleeve Sweater available in four different colors.
Open Edit Rib Stitch Crop Sweater available in four colors.
I haven’t tried these Sweaty Betty Super Sculpt High Waist Leggings yet but other bloggers rave about them, so I’ll be purchasing a pair to try.
Every time I look around on the Nordstrom sale, I find more items that I like; so I might do a smaller post in a day or two of additional items. If you come across any great deals or items you love included in the sale, please share in the comments.
Click on the three lines to the left of the word “lifestyle” at the top of this page and enter your email address to receive notifications by email when I post something new on this blog. Also, follow me on Instagram at cocktailsandgratitude for photos of cocktails, food, flowers, my pets and travel.
-
Things I Love – #27
Here are a few spring purchase that I’m loving. (Click on the photos for more information or to shop.)
Old Navy t-shirt dress. I read that the maxi dress was REALLY long, so I ordered the midi dress in a tall and a regular length and I liked them so much, I kept both. I’m 5’3″ and the regular length is mid-calf and the tall length is a few inches above my ankle. If you’re tall, look for the Maxi version of this dress.
Old Navy Vintage Stripe Dress Banana Republic Duster Cardigan. I wore this over the Old Navy t-shirt dress (above) to the office yesterday.
Banana Republic Duster I also own this Camel colored long cardigan which is a little lighter than the Banana Republic Duster above. It also comes in black and heather gray.
Amazon Long Open Cardigan Old Navy tie die tunic sweatshirt. This comes in multiple colors. I liked the one below so much, I ordered a second color.
Old Navy Tie Die Tunic Sweatshirt Lululemon align leggings. These are my favorite leggings and I have all of the lengths, with and without pockets, in several colors.
Lululemon Align Leggings I’m always ordering hooded sweatshirts from H&M. They’re typically $19.99 or $24.99.
H&M Hoodie 
H&M Relaxed Hoodie Superga slides. I wore these into the ground last summer so I ordered a fresh pair this spring. You may need to size up 1/2 size so your heel is completely inside the shoe. I spray them with two coats of canvas protector and they clean up nicely with a Chlorox wipe.
Superga COTU Mala and Mantra Birthstone Necklace. I saw this necklace at a spa in Mexico and I loved it so much, I ordered it online before we left Mexico. I will say the photo doesn’t do the stones justice, each garnet is faceted and they shimmer in the light. There are many necklace and bracelet options on this website that would make great Mother’s Day gifts. Use code Welcome20 for a 20% discount.
Mala and Mantra January Birthstone Necklace Please comment below with any fun spring purchases or Mother’s Day gift ideas.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Click on the three lines to the left of the word “lifestyle” at the top of this page and enter your email address to receive notifications by email when I post something new on this blog. Also, follow me on Instagram at cocktailsandgratitude for photos of cocktails, food, flowers, my pets and travel.
-
Things I Love – #26
What’s In My Beach Bag
Beach Bag: Find a collapsible straw bag that can lay flat in the bottom of your suitcase, or use it as your carry-on bag. (Click on the blue words for more information or to purchase.)
Straw Beach Bag Sun hat: You definitely want an inexpensive straw sun hat that can fold up in your suitcase and get wet in the pool.
Straw Sun Hat Sunscreen: Sun Bum 30 for body, Sun Bum Lip Balm and Elta MD for face. If you are spending time in the ocean, Sun Bum is also reef friendly.
Waterproof Bag: I always have at least one waterproof bag inside my beach bag for things I want to keep dry, like my phone and Kindle. (Note: I own several of these and use them for my bathroom products inside my suitcase, instead of disposable baggies.)
Waterproof Zippered Bag Kindle or magazines: I don’t like to take a real book to the beach because I don’t like to get the pages wet or sandy. I also like that I can adjust the amount of background light on the Kindle, which makes it easier to read in the sun.
Wide Tooth comb and a deep conditioner: While I’m sitting by the pool I figure I might as well deep condition my hair, I just put a handful on my hair and comb it back under my hat. The wide tooth comb is also helpful for untangling hair without damaging it when you come out of the water. (Note: If you have any sample packets of conditioner, use those.)
Snacks: I usually have a bag or two of nuts in my beach bag.
Yeti: Sometimes it’s filled with ice water and sometimes it’s filled with a cocktail. I like the closeable lids to keep the sand and bugs out. If you have an older Yeti without the MagSlider lid, you can buy the lids separately.
Sunglasses: My favorites right now are the polarized Wedge ($69) and the Rebel ($59) from eyebobs.
Havaianas flip flops: I love these for the pool and beach. I don’t want to ruin my nice leather sandals with sand or water and these are so easy and light to pack.
Havaianas flip flops Do you carry anything in your beach bag that I missed? If so, leave it in the comments below.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Click on the three lines to the left of the word “lifestyle” at the top of this page and enter your email address to receive notifications by email when I post something new on this blog. Also, follow me on Instagram at cocktailsandgratitude for photos of cocktails, flowers, my pets and, eventually, more travel.
-
Spring is Around the Corner – Time for a Refresh
We’re having a little sunny snap in Minnesota and everyone is ditching their coats because it’s a balmy 37 degrees. Everything is relative, right? Trust me, after a week of subzero temps, it’s like a breath of fresh air to see the sunshine, the snow melt and the animals playing in the yard.
I thought it would be fun to share some of my Spring Refresh ideas to help everyone get through the last bit of winter and welcome spring.
Redecorate a sunny room. I put away my red and plaid winter pillows and blankets and pulled lighter colored pillows and blankets from around the house for our South facing front porch. Now when we get a sunny afternoon I have a cozy spot to drink a cup of tea and read a book.
Buy fresh flowers. You don’t need to spend a lot on flowers – I love posting my grocery store flower arrangements on Instagram. It’s also a great time of year to force paper white bulbs, buy a flowering plant like Jasmin or pick up a bunch of forsythia branches that will bloom with beautiful yellow flowers. Don’t forget a small vase of flowers on your nightstand. Every time I do this it makes me smile… so, why don’t I do it more often?
Find a new book set in a fun location for a little virtual travel. I love reading fictional books set in a location I would like to visit. I recently read many books by T.A. Williams set in Italy or France. (Guess where I want to travel now?) Lucy Coleman has light fictional books set in great locations as well. Check my previous blog post for more Book (and Cocktail) Recommendations.
Plan your summer garden – flowers and / or vegetable. This is a great time to look at Pinterest or online for new garden ideas. Even if you just plant flowers in a pot, it’s always fun to plan for a new color scheme or to try plants or planter groupings you haven’t used in the past. Just do a little pre-planning to make sure they’ll get the right amount of sun, shade, water, drainage, etc.
What are you doing to celebrate spring?