Stuff I actually love (and think you should add to your Christmas list)

Oh wait. It’s actually not at all surprising – because Henry has been listing everything he wants from Santa and his grandparents. Daily.

The boy doesn’t have a problem coming up with a Christmas list. It’s admirable, really. He’s committed.

But we all have favorite things – even when we pass toddlerhood. That’s why I’m so excited to be sharing my “favorite things” today, in conjunction with a lot of really amazing bloggers. (Check them all out at the bottom of this post.)

Thrifty Decor Chick has long been one of my favorite blogs, so I was very honored when Sarah asked me to part of this series. It’s the perfect way to see what real people love and use. And a great way to build up your own Christmas list.

I wanted to share a few of the things I really use and love. When we downsized to a 320-square-foot apartment, I started thinking a little harder about what needs to take up our space. So here are a few of my true favorite things. These are things I can recommend 100 percent because I already use and love them.

In other words – these are what I would add to my Christmas list, if I were you. There’s a bit of everything here …

It gets cold in the Midwest, which means I need gloves on between November and April. These 180s women’s foundation gloves were given to me last year at a “Favorite Things” party and now they are one of my favorite things, too. I wear them every day in the winter. They look nice, keep my hands warm and allow me to text and Instagram. (Yeah. You know that’s actually the most important feature.)

These Ugg Ainsley Suede Slippers are such a luxury. Because once winter hits, I don’t function without a good pair of slippers. It seems ridiculous to spend this much. But do it anyway. Because they are the warmest, softest, comfiest slippers you’ll ever own. And they come in every color under the sun. (I’m getting light grey this year.)

I’m obviously going with a warm and cozy theme here. This Hudson & Co is such a warm and cozy addition to my fall and winter wardrobe. The price is so right (less than $7 right now) and it’s really large and soft. My friend Brittany from Hudson & Co originally alerted me to this deal, and the colors are unique and go with almost everything!

Truly – you need to add this to your Christmas list. I’m going back for more colors.

The year 2015 was the year of the book for me. I love to read and finally made it a priority this year. Out of the 60+ books I’ve finished since January, I’m picking The Secret Keeper as my favorite. Can I be honest? I hate the cover and almost didn’t pick it up because it looked lame. But it’s so good and I’m so glad I opened the cover. This is an incredible piece of historical fiction – it’s full of characters you feel like you know. A must-read, in my opinion.

Ryan bought me a monogram necklace like this for my 30th birthday and I wear it almost every day. It’s simple and dainty but really personal. And I get asked about it everywhere I go.

I strongly believe that Fiesta dinnerware is the best you can get. Anywhere. My grandmother had Fiestaware and I have Fiestaware. Enough said. I cannot get enough of the colors and it’s so durable. (I’ve dropped more than a few pieces with no issues.) I love the Fiesta 4-piece dinnerware in a variety of colors. (We have them in white, scarlet, tangerine, cobalt, peacock, shamrock and sunflower). They are the perfect everyday dishes.

I’ve always had sensitive skin, and this Youngblood loose mineral foundation helps me manage it. I have tried almost every type of foundation available for acne-prone skin and I swear by this. It’s easy to apply, covers well, and my face has never been healthier. (Good bye, adult breakouts. I don’t miss you at all.)

I get questions every single day about the Silhouette. The bottom line – I use this puppy at least 3-5 times a week. I believe it’s every penny and can be use for so many crafty endeavors. Not a single holiday, event or celebration goes by without using my Silhouette.

I have the Silhouette Portrait, which is a great machine to start out. At less than $150, it’s a great way to cut vinyl, heat transfer, paper and more. It doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of the CAMEO, but it does everything I’ve ever needed to do. I also like that it has a smaller footprint and is easy to tote around. (Pssst: Watch these links on Black Friday. There have been some killer deals in the past.)

Nest of Posies