Category / Christmas

by Kelly Mattei

Stocking Stuffers 2023

Stocking Stuffers 2023.

I used to hate trying to come up with new ideas for stocking stuffers, but no more… now I love it! Stocking stuffers are meant to be fun! But I also like real gifts as stocking stuffers too, because that’s a big surprise to the recipient…

  • Multitool Pen. It’s always hard to find stocking stuffers for men, but this is a good one…a multitool pen that functions in 9 different ways. Priced at $15.99, it’s a no-brainer. Get it here.
  • Dior Addict Lip Products. My friends and I love Dior Addict lip products. I’m a big fan of the plumping maximizers and lip balms, while some of my friends love the lip oils. See a bunch of Dior Addict Lip Products at Amazon here.
  • Amber Book Reading Light. A reading light attached to a plastic book mark that fits inside my book? Yes, please! If you prolific readers on your list, this could be a great stocking stuffer. It’s even great for college students who need to stay up late reading but don’t want to disturb a roommate. Get it here.
  • I Saw That Jesus Door Frame Sign. Sometimes we need a reminder to do the right thing. A friend sent her child to college with one of these. I think it’s a great idea to hang on a door frame, window frame, or mirror frame. Comes in a variety of colors at different prices, starting at $7.96. Get it here.
  • St Tropez Self-Tan Express One-Hour Tan Kit. For the person on your list who feels better with a tan in winter, the St Tropez Express Tan One-Hour Tan Kit is awesome. The one I’m listing is a mini with a mitt included. Tan fat looks better than white fat, and a tan face makes teeth look whiter. Get it for $20 here.
  • Dr. Squatch All Natural Bar Soap. Great natural soaps that come three to a pack in three different “manly” scents. The man on your list will love finding this in his stocking. Get it here.
  • It Happened Right Here: America’s Pop Culture Landmarks book. A book by Chris Epting, the author of cult-fave James Dean Died Here, this latest work shares the locations of lots of pop culture happenings: featured TV show locations, the dorm room where Facebook was created, the scene of the Beyonce and Jay Z elevator incident, and more. I am partial to Mr. Epting’s work, since he co-authored Leif Garrett’s memoir, Idol Truth, and sent me a message thanking me for reviewing it and recommending it on my blog! *Brush with fame!* This book great for anyone who loves pop culture, and it’s great for anyone who might want to visit the landmarks (like me!). Purchase here.
  • Musicozy Sleep Mask. Mine arrived today, and you can bet your sweet bippy I will be sleeping with it tonight. I mentioned it in a previous post. My cousin slept with this sleep mask on our trip to Panama; it has earbuds built in, so you can cover your eyes and listen to stories, music, or white noise as you drift off to sleep. It’s inexpensive, and you can get one here for the stocking of anyone on your list.
  • Silly Putty. Come on. Silly Putty is always fun, whether you’re seven or seventy, right? Don’t we all remember pressing it on the funny pages of the newspaper to see the image on the silly putty? Plus, it’s just fun to shape and mold. Honestly, I guess it’s the original “fidget toy.” Get a three pack of the original Silly Putty eggs from Amazon here.
  • Gwa Sha Stone. I don’t get it, but these are all the rage with high school and college girls. They’re supposed to tone facial muscles and promote lymphatic drainage. My daughter uses hers all the time. This is a super easy and inexpensive stocking stuffer. Get it here.
  • Makeup Erasers. I have written about these more than once, but it’s because I love them so much! Remove all your makeup with a Makeup Eraser and water! Nothing else! It’s awesome! I use them. My daughter uses them. They make a perfect stocking stuffer! They’re reusable; I use one a day and place it in the mesh pouch. When the pouch is full, I throw it in the washer and dryer with my other laundry…and voila! Fresh Makeup Erasers come out of the dryer, ready to be used again! Seriously, stop wasting money on disposable makeup wipes. Get seven erasers for $25, and use them over and over again! Purchase here. Go ahead. Purchase them for everyone in your family who wears makeup.
  • Compact Waterproof Binoculars. Great for boating, birdwatching, sporting events, or the beach. These waterproof binoculars make a great stocking stuffer and will fit in a small handbag. They have a rubber outer shell, decreasing the possibility of breakage. The magnification is 8X, and they are only $17.99 at Amazon here.
  • Wireless Karaoke Machine. Everyone has that obnoxious friend or family member who would love a good wireless karaoke machine to “liven things up” on Christmas. Right? Hi. It’s me. I’m the problem. It’s me. Personally, I think it’s a great stocking stuffer. And at only $26.99, let’s goooooo! Get it here.

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  • Beanboozled. Y’all, I thought Beanboozled had left the building, but then, today, a friend started talking about it. It’s a jelly bean game…two different jelly beans look the same, but one is a bad flavor, and one is a yummy flavor. My daughter used to have the best time with Beanboozled, and not just with kids…she would get adults to play too! My brother was the best Beanboozled player (when he was in his 40s!), because he didn’t even flinch when he got a bad flavor (stinky socks, rotten cheese, etc). My daughter thought he was amazing! You can get Beanboozled at Amazon here. It could add some fun to the holidays!
  • Stylus Pens. I write and draw all the time. While I’m on the phone, I’m either walking (getting those steps in!) or writing/drawing in a notebook I keep in my kitchen. I like a pen that writes smoothly, but I also like a pen with a stylus, because I can use it on my phone and iPad. If you have someone on your list who likes to “doodle,” a stylus pen set could be a great stocking stuffer, and they’re inexpensive! These are some smooth-writing pens that look like they cost a lot more than they do! Get the multicolored set here.
  • Mini Cornhole. Enjoy cornhole on a tabletop! No big spaces needed! Get it for under $25 here.
  • Happy Belly Coffee Pods. If you have a coffee drinker on your list, Happy Belly Coffee Pods are awesome, inexpensive, and they come in lots of flavors. I love the breakfast blend. At $26.66 for 100 pods, they are a bargain! Seriously, that’s less than 27 cents a cup. Get them here.
  • Thumbs Up Cellphone Stand. Anyone who relies on their cellphone for daily task could use these cute cellphone stands shaped like “thumbs up.” $8.49 will get a two-pack. Get them here.

I’ll post more stocking stuffers…some more serious ones…later today or tomorrow! This should get you going, though!

Happy Holiday Shopping!

by Kelly Mattei

Holiday Gifts 2023: Travel Gifts

Travel gifts.

I love travel gifts. Why? Well, because I love to travel. I don’t have to go all around the world, but I do love just getting out of town. Therefore, I have some great ideas for the travelers on your holiday shopping list:

  • Samsonite Freeform Carry-On Spinner. Named “Best Overall Carry-On 2023” by Travel & Leisure Magazine, you won’t get one faster than I do, because I’m ordering one for me and one for my daughter as soon as I finish typing this. It’s hard-sided. It’s expandable. It’s durable. It has great wheels. It comes in great colors. And it’s less than $200! Merry Christmas to me! If you have a traveler on your list, this could be the perfect gift. I’m getting us a lilac one and a powder blue. I like to get colors you don’t see out there often. Get them at Amazon here.
  • Travel Bag with Trolley Sleeve. To go with the spinner above, you could get a travel bag with a trolley sleeve that sits atop the luggage and doesn’t fall…thanks to the sleeve. You can get one for your favorite traveler at Amazon for under $30. It comes in multiple colors and gets great reviews. See it here.
  • Destinations of a Lifetime. A hardcover book published by National Geographic, this lists 225 of the world’s most spectacular places. If you have someone on your list who enjoys travel, this could be a great gift. Priced at just $$23.25, it’s an inexpensive but useful gift. The traveler will love it. The person who dreams of travel will love it too. My mother, in her later years, when she could no longer travel, loved seeing great destinations in print or on TV. See it here.

  • Portable Blender. If you have a traveler on your list who loves their protein shakes as much as my husband does, you need to get them this Ninja portable blender. My husband packs one in his suitcase no matter where we go. It’s not heavy or bulky. At $59.99, it’s a bargain, and it gets the job done! Get it at Amazon here.
  • Apple AirPods. I mentioned these in another list, but I’m adding them here, because they are essential for long flights…or even long car rides with family. My college-age daughter has had some for years, but I was reluctant to get them, thinking I would never use them. I use them. Because I wasn’t sure if I would use them, I didn’t get the latest model, but the ones I have (2nd generation) are great, and they’re just $99. Teenagers might care, but if you’re buying for someone over 30, they probably don’t care that they’re not the latest. Get them here.
  • Airplane Window Frame. Have a traveler on your list who loves to take photos while traveling? An airplane window photo frame could be the perfect gift! I’d love one myself! Get it here for just $19.90.
  • Anti-Theft Backpack for Women. Y’all, before I traveled to Panama in October, I purchased an anti-theft backpack to take with me. I hate backpacks that have easy access from the outside; I think they are made for pickpockets. Any female traveler on your list could use an anti-theft backpack for exploring cities. See the one I purchased for under $30 here. It’s lightweight, roomy, and I love mine. It comes in several colors.

  • Travel Hairdryer. Yes, hotels have hairdryers. However, how many times have you been in a hotel and wondered why you trusted them to provide a good dryer? The best travel dryer I have found is the T3 Afar Lightweight Travel Dryer. It’s not cheap at $179, but it’s a great dryer that folds in half, so it takes up less room in luggage. Any traveler on your list would appreciate this. See it here.
  • Baseball Hat Carrier. Someone on your list love his/her baseball hats when traveling? You can be the hero of the holidays with this gift! I had no idea this even existed until a friend told me about it! It holds and protects up to six baseball caps. They can carry it as their carry-on or pack it in a bigger bag. I know several people who could use this! Get it here.

  • Portable Neck Fan. For those travelers on your list who can’t sleep on a plane without a fan, here’s the perfect gift! This is the big daddy of neck fans with lots of power, and its rechargeable. It comes in a variety of colors. Get it here.

  • Sleep Headphones/Eye Mask. My cousin travels with these, and after a trip with her, I see the genius behind this product. Block out all the noise and light with these. If someone on your list prefers to fall asleep listening to music or a story…or even white noise from a phone, this is a great gift. I’ll be asking for this myself. Get it here.

  • Buffalo Leather Hanging Dopp Kit/Toiletry Bag. Travelers need extra room in hotel bathrooms. The KomalC Buffalo Leather Hanging Toiletry Bag provides that extra space. Travelers don’t have to run out of room on the vanity if they have this. It will be a welcome gift. Get it here.
  • Hey Dudes. Folks love their Hey Dudes shoes. Another product my cousin introduced me to, these slip-on shoes are all the rage, especially with travelers. Anyone who has had to take off their shoes while passing through TSA checkpoints knows the drama. Make it easy for the traveler on your list with Hey Dudes. Seriously, even if you have TSA Precheck, you can be pulled out of line for a random check…and have to take off your shoes. Hey Dudes are inexpensive, and apparently, they are awesome! The traveler on your list will be grateful. See the entire Hey Dudes line at Amazon here.

There are some great options for the travelers on your list. I will have more ideas for travelers soon, so feel free to check back!

Happy Shopping!

***If you’d like to purchase the airplane Christmas ornament in the featured photo, you can get it at Amazon here.***

by Kelly Mattei

Holiday Shopping for Moms and Dads 2023

Holiday shopping for moms and dads 2023.

I love to start my holiday shopping. I love getting a jump on everything and hopefully, reducing the risk of missing out on something I want to purchase for a member of the family.

Wanna get started? Let’s Gooooooo!!

FOR DADS:

  • Solo Stove. I know I push this all the time, but y’all, I push it because it’s a gift I believe in. It’s actually a great gift for anyone in the family, because I can tell you I probably love our Solo Stove more than my husband does! What do we love? Fall and winter nights, sitting on the patio, sharing dinner and drinks with friends. My personal favorite is the Solo Bonfire. For just the fire pit, it’s $249 here. Or get it with the stand for $344.95 here. I don’t remember the stand being an option when we got ours, so we just keep it on a paver on the patio.
  • Screen Magnifier for Smartphone. This one is inexpensive but useful. Seriously, for less than $20, you can get a screen magnifier that makes it easy to watch sports or movies on your smartphone anywhere. Bowl games? Your husband/dad won’t have to miss one. He can sit almost anywhere and be able to see his screen easily. Why not get one for everyone in the family? I know we could all use them. This idea just moved to the top of my list…I’ll take three, please. Get it here. Or see other versions here.
  • Toilet Night Light. I know it sounds silly, but we actually have these at our house. We love them. Get a two-pack for under $15 here. Or look at other versions here.
  • Cooling Weighted Blanket. Like the relaxation of a weighted blanket, but don’t like the sweat? This one is a “cooling” one from Zonli. Get it for under $50 here.
  • UGG Men’s Tasman Slipper. Come on, y’all. All dads need some good slippers. Get these quality UGG slippers for $109 here.
  • Rabbit Freezable Glasses. Y’all, these cocktail glasses are the bomb! I have some and love them. If you have someone on your list who likes a cold cocktail, this is your answer. Get two for $30 here.
  • OOFOs Recovery Slides. Any man who exercises needs these OOFOs Recovery Slides. They offer comfort and support post-exercise. For just $59, they are a bargain, and they are offered in lots of colors. Get them here.
  • TUSHY Bidet Toilet Seat Attachment. Laugh if you want. This is a great gift. Dad (or whoever the recipient may be) might not understand at first, but he will end up appreciating this gift. Get it for about $50 here. Honestly, these are going to be popular gifts this year. Get them while they are available.
  • Rayban Wayfarers. Is anyting more classic than a pair of Rayban Wayfarers? Any dad who has ever watched Risky Business knows how awesome these shades are. Get them on sale for about $110 here..
  • Bomber Flight Jacket. A friend got this for her husband last year, and he loves it. I guess he saw Tom Cruise in Top Gun? I feel the need…the need for speed. Get it for about $200 here. Sure, you can get a less expensive one, but will it be the same quality. Dad will appreciate this one. It will be money well spent for Dad to feel as cool as Maverick.

FOR MOMS:

  • Electronic Foot Massager. Y’all know I’m not a medical professional, but I do know about nerve pain and restless leg syndrome…personally. I recommend this, if your medical professional approves it. I love mine. I take restless legs meds, but as recently as last night, they were slow to start working. I got out of bed and put my feet on the foot pad of this inexpensive massager for about 10 minutes. It’s like a TENS machine for your feet/lower legs. Plus, it’s easy to pack in luggage! When I got back to bed, I fell asleep quickly. Get yours here.
  • Personalized Recipe Cutting Board. This is a great personal gift. Maybe your mom has one of her mom’s recipe cards in her mom’s handwriting? Maybe you get a cutting board made from that? She will love it. Get it for about $40 here.
  • Free People Groovy Baby Kaftan. I have this, and I love it! It’s $98. It’s one size fits all, and its glorious! I love it! In fact, I gave one to a friend last week, and she loves it too! Get it at Amazon here.
  • Dyson Air Wrap. It’s expensive, but people (including my daughter) swear by it. Yes, it’s $599, but people who use them say they will never give them up. Get it here. The Dyson Air Wrap is likely to sell out before the holidays, so keep that in mind. If you can purchase now, get it now. Hoping to spend less? Another one that gets good reviews is the Shark FlexStyle for $299. Get it here.
  • Ceramic Trinket Tray. Any mom will love a trinket tray with a sweet message. One that says “Remember I love you, Mom” will warm my heart every time I look at it. There are lots of others messages on variations of this tray. See them and purchase here.
  • Fishers Finest Mulberry Silk Pillowcase. These pillowcases help prevent wrinkles, regulate temperature, and they help keep hair healthy. ‘Nuff said. Get it at Amazon here for $53.99. Mom will thank you.
  • Zip Up Get Ready Robe. I love a good robe. Saturday Night Live can make fun of robes for Christmas gifts all they want. I love a good robe. I still have a great bathrobe I received as a gift in 2000. It’s a great fleece robe, but I love a good, lightweight “get ready”robe too. Get one for under $30 here.
  • 1000 Adventures. Have a traveler on your list? Maybe you want to take a trip with Mom? I love traveling with my daughter. I love when we make memories on Mother/daughter trips. This book is full of ideas. Titled The Bucket List: 1000 Adventures Big and Small, this book makes a great gift. Maybe earmark some pages for ideas. See it here.
  • Pink Picasso Paint By Numbers. Y’all can think I’m cheesy, but how relaxing does it sound to do some paint by numbers on an adult level? Sign me up, please! These kits are $46, and they contain everything you need to complete a lovely painting. Heck, I’ll take two! Purchase here.
  • Dior Addict Lip Products. I love all the Dior Addict lip products…especially the maximizers. Look at the options on Amazon here.

That’s it for today! Start your shopping early! You’ll thank me, without a doubt!

I’ll be posting more ideas over the next couple of weeks, but don’t wait!

#shopamazon #amazonaffiliate

by Kelly Mattei

Holiday Gifts for the Home

Holiday gifts for the home.

Lots of us love gifts for the home. I love when someone gives me something I can use or display at home. Therefore, I’m sharing some favorite ideas for 2023:

  • Vietri Vase. Y’all, I love Vietri glassware, and their vases are my very favorite. They add a little beauty and color to any room. Your friends/family would love to receive a Vietri vase. My fave is the Vietri Hibiscus mouth blown glass vase, starting at $65 for the small clear version and $69 for various colors…the cobalt, the dark green, the pink…I love them all! Purchase here.
  • Ice Ball Maker. This is great for the person on your gift who loves a good cocktail on the rocks. Or if they like a good Old Fashioned, they will love being able to make their own ice balls to perfectly chill their cocktails. Get this thoughtful gift for just $16.99 at Amazon here.
  • EXVALO nightlight/charger/speaker. This is an unusual gift I would love to receive! An adjustable bedside nightlight with phone charging capabilities and a Bluetooth speaker. It’s portable and rechargeable! In fact, I think we need one on every nightstand in our house. Priced at just $35.99 right now (on sale 40% off!), it’s a great gift for anyone on your list. Get it here.
  • Frozen Beverage Machine. I want a frozen drink machine at home. I did a little investigating, and I found that the Margaritaville brand gets great reviews and is priced right too! It’s not commercial grade. For that, you’ll spend more, but for a home machine, Margaritaville gets great reviews. It’s still $320 (at time of writing). If you have someone in on your list who likes to entertain with frozen margaritas, daquiris, or anything, else, this could be a great gift. The Margaritaville brand makes 2.5 pitchers at a time. Purchase here. If you’re up for commercial-grade, I recommend VEVOR brand. Prices start at $542 for the slushie maker on Amazon. What I really like about VEVOR is that no pitcher is required. You can dispense the beverage straight from the machine. I love it. . See the various VEVOR options here.
  • Garden Potting Bench. Have someone on your list who loves gardening? Me. I’m the one on the list who loves gardening. My husband knows I would be happy to receive a potting bench for Christmas. I found one from Yaheetech on Amazon that I would love, and priced at under $70, it’s a deal. There is some assembly required, but according to reviews, it’s pretty easy. If you have a gardener on your list, this could be a great gift at a great price. They’ll never suspect it’s under $70. Get it here.
  • Double Stitch by Bedsure Throw Blankets. Who doesn’t love a good throw blanket? Double Stitch by Bedsure makes quality blankets at great prices. Add a splash of modern charm to any room with these blankets, priced right now on sale at Amazon for $59.99. Get one for each person on your list! See them here.
  • Hippo Resin Figurine Dish. Y’all are going to think I’m crazy, but I love this hippo figurine that also acts as a bowl for keys, candy, whatever you want. It will be a conversation piece, for sure! Priced at $30.99, it’s a fun gift that will get noticed Christmas morning! Get it here.
  • Jonathan Adler Greek Key Frame. I love Jonathan Adler products for their modern look and for their whimsy. This one isn’t as whimsical as some, but it’s a great frame. Pop in a favorite photo for the recipient and wrap it up. Photo memories make great gifts. See it here.
  • Birdfeeder. The older I get, the more I remind myself of my mother. During summer, I enjoy watching the birds flock to my garden, but during the winter, they need to eat too! I’m adding a “birdfeeder” to my Christmas list this year. Hopefully, my husband will read this and come through. Otherwise, I’ll have to rely on Santa. There’s a great one at Amazon for $17.99 here.
  • Great Escapes Coffee Table Book. I’m a big fan of coffee table books. They add color a room and tell visitors a little bit about the residents. Have a traveler on your list? They might like a Great Escapes Coffee Table Book. My favorite right now? The Great Escapes USA: The Hotel Book. Priced under $50, it makes a lovely gift for the traveler on your list. Get it here.

There you have it…ten home gift ideas for the holidays. I’ll be following up with more ideas until Christmas.

Happy Shopping!

***As an Amazon Affiliate, I might receive commission on items purchased through my links.

by Kelly Mattei

More Holiday Shopping in October

More holiday shopping in October…

Be ahead of the curve, my friends! Purchase gifts now, so you aren’t struggling to get them at the last minute! Here are some suggestions and great deals! ***All prices are valid at time of writing.*** Here are twelve suggestions:

  • Apple Airpods. Y’all, I never owned Airpods until recently. Right before I traveled to Panama earlier this month, I finally decided to purchase some for myself. Normally, I don’t download things to watch on planes, but before this trip, I decided I would, so I needed Airpods to be able to hear my downloads. I was so happy I had purchased them! You don’t have to get the most expensive ones, unless that’s your jam. I got mine on Amazon for $99. They are Gen 2, so they aren’t the latest model, but for those of you, like me, who do not want to spend more on Airpods, these could be perfect. Yes, they have the charging case. They’d make a great gift for any Apple user in your family who doesn’t have Airpods already. Purchase here.
  • I Luv My Buds. If you’d like some less expensive wireless earbuds for someone on your list, these get great reviews. Don’t trust your kid to keep up with them? Get these less expensive ones and see how it goes. At just $24.99, these are waterproof and come with a charging case. Plus, they come in lots of cool colors! They are compatible with Apple and Android. Purchase here. Pictured here:
  • Amazon Fire TV. Someone on your list need a new TV? Amazon Fire TV makes a great addition to any dorm room, apartment, bedroom, gameroom, or living room. My friend, Angela, got one recently and loves it. Amazon has great deals on their 32″ model ($109, a savings of $45%) and their 40″ model ($179, a savings of 28%). Act fast, though. These deals won’t last forever! And they’re only available to Prime members. Purchase here. Pictured here:
  • Amazon Essentials Men’s Packable Jacket. Have a man on your list who needs a lightweight, packable, puffer jacket? Look no further! Amazon Essentials has one for just $35.60 (20% off) right now, and it gets great reviews. Maybe he just needs a jacket he can take on vacation for chilly evenings? This one is perfect, and it won’t break the bank. Plus, it comes in lots of colors…basic black and more! Get it here.
  • Amazon Essentials Women’s French Terry Joggers. I have about six pairs of these. I love them that much. I wear them everywhere…when I’m relaxing at home, on airplanes, running errands, and out to lunch with friends. They come in lots of colors, but I prefer basic black. You can wear them with sneakers for a casual look or even dress them up a little with boots/booties/sandals. Truly, these are one of my best purchases ever! They retain their shape. They have pockets. And they are uber-comfy. Get them here.
  • Victrola Nostalgic 6-in-1 Bluetooth Record Player and Multimedia Center. Is there someone on your list who has some old 45s or LPs laying around unused? This Victrola unit is normally $159, but it’s on sale right now for just $99.99 for Prime members. I think my husband would love to have one of these upstairs in his “man cave.” In addition to a turntable, it offers a CD player, cassette player, AM/FM radio, and it even offers streaming from your phone through the speakers. If you have a nostalgic music buff on your list, this could be the perfect gift! Get it here. Purchase it with a stand here for $169.24 or with a Victrola crate and stand for $219.83 here.
  • K Cups Holder/Organizer Stand. These things are crazy handy for coffee drinkers like me. I love my coffee, but I refuse to purchase it at chain coffee stores. Therefore, I prepare my own coffee at home with my Keurig and K Cups. A K Cup holder is a great place to store the cups and makes it easy for selecting which coffee you want. Get one at Amazon for $22.97 here. Or maybe you like the drawer-style organizer? See it here.
  • Samsung Freestyle Portable Projector. Not gonna lie. This one is not cheap, but if someone on your list likes big movies projected onto big screens with big sounds, this could be the perfect gift. Priced right now at $459.99 (regularly $597.99, a savings of 23%), you’ll get it at a discounted price. Have friends over for outdoor movies? Have family over to watch a movie during summer? Project onto a wall or a screen! It’s good for travel, and it comes loaded with apps. Purchase here.
  • Bug Hull Rechargeable Hand Warmers. These can be a gift or make great stocking stuffers for anyone on your list who doesn’t live in south Florida. They hold a charge for 16 hours! Keep these in your jacket pockets!They’re inexpensive but very useful…especially at January sporting events or anything outdoors. Heck, just getting to work or school can be no fun in the freezing cold! Get these for $28.99 at Amazon here.
  • Anti-Theft Backpack. When I travel, I like to walk around new cities or areas with my hands free, so I can shop, snack, whatever. However, lots of backpacks open on the outside, making it easy for pickpockets to unzip the backpack quickly and easily, taking whatever they want. Therefore, I like to carry a small backpack that opens on the side facing my back. There are lots of them out there, but you don’t have to spend a fortune for a small backpack to carry your items safely. For $28.99, you can get a cute nylon one from Pincnel at Amazon here. Before a recent trip to Panamá, I purchased a “leather” one from Amazon for $26.99 that worked great. You can see it here. I tend to not purchase black ones, because I’m less likely to leave it somewhere if it’s a standout color. I chose lavender. Or see lots of anti-theft backpacks from Amazon here.
  • Hanging Toiletry Bag. When I traveld with a friend to Pittsburgh earlier this year, she had a hanging toiletry bag. All her toiletry items in one place…not taking up valuable counter space in a hotel room! Hang it over a door in the bathroom or closet. I just remembered and ordered one for myself. Get one at Amazon for $20.99 here. It’s great for college students or anyone on your list who travels.
  • Amazon Kindle Paperwhite. For anyone on your list who enjoys reading, this is a great gift, no doubt. I would love to find one under the tree for me on Christmas morning! Get the 8G version here for $139.99, or the 32G version here for $189.99.

We will post more ideas leading up to Christmas!

by Kelly Mattei

Holiday Shopping in October? Start Here!

I love to start my holiday shopping in October. For one, I can get a jump on everything and hopefully, reduce the risk of missing out on something I want to purchase for a member of the family. Also, I can spread out the shopping over a three-month period, so it doesn’t look so bad when the credit card bill comes in.

Wanna get started? Let’s Gooooooo!!

FOR DADS:

  • Solo Stove. I know I push this all the time, but y’all, I push it because it’s a gift I believe in. It’s actually a great gift for anyone in the family, because I can tell you I probably love our Solo Stove more than my husband does! What do we love? Fall and winter nights, sitting on the patio, sharing dinner and drinks with friends. My personal favorite is the Solo Bonfire. For just the fire pit, it’s $249 here. Or get it with the stand for $344.95 here. I don’t remember the stand being an option when we got ours, so we just keep it on a paver on the patio.
  • Screen Magnifier for Smartphone. This one is inexpensive but useful. Seriously, for less than $20, you can get a screen magnifier that makes it easy to watch sports or movies on your smartphone anywhere. Bowl games? Your husband/dad won’t have to miss one. He can sit almost anywhere and be able to see his screen easily. Why not get one for everyone in the family? I know we could all use them. This idea just moved to the top of my list…I’ll take three, please. Get it here. Or see other versions here.
  • Toilet Night Light. I know it sounds silly, but we actually have these at our house. We love them. Get a two-pack for under $15 here. Or look at other versions here.
  • Cooling Weighted Blanket. Like the relaxation of a weighted blanket, but don’t like the sweat? This one is a “cooling” one from Zonli. Get it for under $50 here.
  • UGG Men’s Tasman Slipper. Come on, y’all. All dads need some good slippers. Get these quality UGG slippers for $109 here.
  • Rabbit Freezable Glasses. Y’all, these cocktail glasses are the bomb! I have some and love them. If you have someone on your list who likes a cold cocktail, this is your answer. Get two for $30 here.
  • OOFOs Recovery Slides. Any man who exercises needs these OOFOs Recovery Slides. They offer comfort and support post-exercise. For just $59, they are a bargain, and they are offered in lots of colors. Get them here.
  • TUSHY Bidet Toilet Seat Attachment. Laugh if you want. This is a great gift. Dad (or whoever the recipient may be) might not understand at first, but he will end up appreciating this gift. Get it for about $50 here. Honestly, these are going to be popular gifts this year. Get them while they are available.
  • Rayban Wayfarers. Is anyting more classic than a pair of Rayban Wayfarers? Any dad who has ever watched Risky Business knows how awesome these shades are. Get them on sale for about $110 here..
  • Bomber Flight Jacket. A friend got this for her husband last year, and he loves it. I guess he saw Tom Cruise in Top Gun? I feel the need…the need for speed. Get it for about $200 here. Sure, you can get a less expensive one, but will it be the same quality. Dad will appreciate this one. It will be money well spent for Dad to feel as cool as Maverick.

FOR MOMS:

  • Electronic Foot Massager. Y’all know I’m not a medical professional, but I do know about nerve pain and restless leg syndrome…personally. I recommend this, if your medical professional approves it. I love mine. I take restless legs meds, but as recently as last night, they were slow to start working. I got out of bed and put my feet on the foot pad of this inexpensive massager for about 10 minutes. It’s like a TENS machine for your feet/lower legs. Plus, it’s easy to pack in luggage! When I got back to bed, I fell asleep quickly. Get yours here.
  • Personalized Recipe Cutting Board. This is a great personal gift. Maybe your mom has one of her mom’s recipe cards in her mom’s handwriting? Maybe you get a cutting board made from that? She will love it. Get it for about $40 here.
  • Free People Groovy Baby Kaftan. I have this, and I love it! It’s $98. It’s one size fits all, and its glorious! I love it! In fact, I gave one to a friend last week, and she loves it too! Get it at Amazon here.
  • Dyson Air Wrap. It’s expensive, but people (including my daughter) swear by it. Yes, it’s $599, but people who use them say they will never give them up. Get it here. The Dyson Air Wrap is likely to sell out before the holidays, so keep that in mind. If you can purchase now, get it now. Hoping to spend less? Another one that gets good reviews is the Shark FlexStyle for $299. Get it here.
  • Ceramic Trinket Tray. Any mom will love a trinket tray with a sweet message. One that says “Remember I love you, Mom” will warm my heart every time I look at it. There are lots of others messages on variations of this tray. See them and purchase here.
  • Fishers Finest Mulberry Silk Pillowcase. These pillowcases help prevent wrinkles, regulate temperature, and they help keep hair healthy. ‘Nuff said. Get it at Amazon here for $53.99. Mom will thank you.
  • Zip Up Get Ready Robe. I love a good robe. Saturday Night Live can make fun of robes for Christmas gifts all they want. I love a good robe. I still have a great bathrobe I received as a gift in 2000. It’s a great fleece robe, but I love a good, lightweight “get ready”robe too. Get one for under $30 here.
  • 1000 Adventures. Have a traveler on your list? Maybe you want to take a trip with Mom? I love traveling with my daughter. I love when we make memories on Mother/daughter trips. This book is full of ideas. Titled The Bucket List: 1000 Adventures Big and Small, this book makes a great gift. Maybe earmark some pages for ideas. See it here.
  • Pink Picasso Paint By Numbers. Y’all can think I’m cheesy, but how relaxing does it sound to do some paint by numbers on an adult level? Sign me up, please! These kits are $46, and they contain everything you need to complete a lovely painting. Heck, I’ll take two! Purchase here.
  • Dior Addict Lip Products. I love all the Dior Addict lip products…especially the maximizers. Look at the options on Amazon here.

That’s it for today! Start your shopping early! You’ll thank me, without a doubt!

I’ll be posting more ideas over the next couple of weeks, but don’t wait!

#shopamazon #amazonaffiliate

by Kelly Mattei

We Miss the Elves

We miss the elves.

I know, I know. Every parent who is having to deal with The Elf on the Shelf right now is wondering why they ever bought into that commercialized bit of Christmas.

Seriously, how many times will you forget to move the damn elves during the season? I remember many times our daughter would come downstairs in the morning to find the elf in the same spot as the day before. She would ask if it had lost its magic. “Oh, no honey! It was just really foggy/stormy/cloudy out last night, and he couldn’t make the flight safely.” I had to think fast, and I couldn’t let the panic show on my face.

Other times, I would wake up in the middle of the night and remember I hadn’t moved the elf. I would get up, try to wake up enough to be creative with a “hiding place,” and stumble back to bed…cursing the elf the whole time.

And then, the elves multiplied at our house! She teceived them as gifts. Or she asked them to bring friends. When all was said and done, we had SIX elves visiting our home, and that meant I had to move all six of them every night. (I know…I know…I’m crazy to have allowed it.) Not only that, but I also had to get more creative after she heard about other friends’ elves that did more interesting things than just sit in the Christmas tree. Keeping up with the Joneses was real where the elf was concerned. She didn’t want to think Santa sent her a lame elf (or elves!).

Seriously, it got out of hand. Those damn elves were leading better lives than I was: writing all over the vanity with toothpaste, bungee jumping from the stairs, bathing in Christmas M&Ms, coming in on a wrecking ball, drinking Karo Syrup, trapping each other in cake domes…oh, to be an elf! And the notes and “surprises”! They brought little trinkets. They wrote her notes in their special elf handwriting. My brain had not been that creative in years, but I made it happen. Honestly, I became an overachiever where the elves were concerned, and I’m sure all her friends’ parents hated me for it. I don’t blame them. I hated that I let myself fall into the trap of that level of insanity after seeing others post on social media, but I did it.

I thought about all this last night, because my daughter, who is now 19 and a freshman in college, was hanging out with friends and texted me, “Can you send me pictures of the crazy things my elves did?” I searched through years of pictures and found some to send her. She sent back lots of laughing faces, lots of “Lol” and lots of “wow.”

Then I went down the rabbit hole.

I started texting her elf stories. I told her about the time she came running into the kitchen just before Thanksgiving Day (when the elves are supposed to arrive) with an elf in her hand. I’m not sure how old she was…maybe six of seven? She had gone into my room to look for something in a drawer, and she had found an elf. “Mommy! Look what I found in your drawer!” I was standing at the stovetop preparing dinner but looked down to see her holding the elf up for me to see. Somehow, I thought fast and replied, “Wow! He must have known you would look in there today, and he was just waiting for you to find him!” Her eyes widened! She bought it hook, line, and sinker! She replied, “I guess so!” And the elves got an early start (ugh) that year…lucky me (insert eye roll here).

Another year, on Christmas Day, she seemed a little sad…unusual for Christmas Day. She was eight, and she should have been excited and happy the whole day. Finally, in the afternoon, I asked, “Honey, are you OK?” Immediately, the flood gates opened…her bottom lip rolled down as her chin quivered, and tears rolled down her cheeks. “I miss my elf!,” she exclaimed. My heart broke. My sweet little girl thad been holding in those emotions all day. I could have been stern. I could have followed the elf rules, but I didn’t. I hugged her. I comforted her. And then I said, “There might be a way to get him back.” Call me a sucker if you want, but personally, I love knowing my child is full of so much love. That year, her elf had taken on the task of replacing some of her “babies” (stuffed animals) that had been accidentally thrown out while we were having her room painted. She appreciated what that elf had done for her, and she loved her elf for it. Who was I to say the elf couldn’t come back? Surely, there was a way?!? I said, “Here’s a little secret: since it’s still Christmas Day, you can make a wish on a Christmas candle, and maybe the elf will come back.” I’m still patting myself on the back for this one. My husband brought us a Christmas candle, and I sat down on the sofa with her, telling her to close her eyes and make the wish before blowing out the candle. Then close her eyes again and slowly count to ten, just to help the wish. Whatever…I was winging it, OK?!? While she slowly counted to ten after making the wish, my husband scampered quietly into our room, got the elf out of a drawer and placed him on the dining room table. When she opened her eyes, I said, “Maybe the elf will return. He might show up in an unexpected place.” Of course, she couldn’t resist the urge to start searching. When she found him on the dining room table, it was sheer joy! Her Christmas wish had come true! Since the elf had returned on a Christmas wish, she was allowed to hold him (against the Elf on the Shelf rules), so she settled in on the sofa to watch a Christmas movie with him. I told her she had 30 more days with the elf, but he wouldn’t fly back and forth to the North Pole, and had to leave after those 30 days. She agreed 30 more days would be enough…and it was.

The elves were popular at our house for several years until one day, she simply said, “Mom, I know the elves aren’t real.” In some ways I was happy. I wouldn’t have to remember to move them! I wouldn’t have to find creative places to put them! I wouldn’t have to wake up in the middle of the night in a cold sweat when I realized I hadn’t done anything with them! I wouldn’t have to lie about the fog/storms/clouds. At the same time, my heart broke a little. Sure, my life would be a little easier because she didn’t believe in the elves anymore, but it would be a lot less fun.

Now that she’s 19, the elves no longer come around. One moved to a new home when a neighbor melted her daughter’s elf on a lamp and was in a desperate search for a new one. We had one that matched hers, so we let her have it. Our daughter didn’t believe anymore, so it was nice to know we were saving another parent from a meltdown. Now, we look back on the elves with fondness. And honestly, they make good stories.

We miss the elves…not enough to bring them back, but we miss them!

by Kelly Mattei

Some Things Never Change

Some things never change.

Growing up, I lived in a few different small towns in Alabama. I was born in a different state but moved to Alabama as a baby, and the first small town we lived in made quite an impression.

When I say it was a small town, I mean it was a small town, but at the time, I didn’t realize just how small it was. Downtown always looks big to little kids, and this one was no exception. Every year as a little girl, I looked forward to Christmastime. This tiny town would have a Christmas parade with Santa joyfully waving at the tail end of the parade. Downtown was decorated every year with what I thought were beautiful decorations on each pole in the downtown area. I moved away from there when I was seven years old, but in my mind’s eye, I can still see the Christmas decor.

Yesterday, as I scrolled through Facebook, I came across some pictures of a small town Christmas parade. It was, in fact, the same small town. I flipped through the pictures, looking for Santa, and there he was…atop a fire truck at the end of the parade. It made me feel nostalgic, and it made me smile. Some things never change…a small town is still hosting a Christmas parade, complete with Santa. I did notice one difference, though. I remember the parade being a daytime parade when I was a little girl, but this parade was a night parade with illuminated floats. Still, it was a sweet reminder of my childhood. It also appeared the parade might have been interrupted by a train passing through town, as the tracks go right through the middle of the town.

I guess every small town has its own traditions. We moved from there to another small town that was more of a community without a proper downtown area. I don’t remember any kind of community-wide Christmas celebrations there, but that might have been because we were close to a bigger city where we could drive into town and enjoy holiday festivities.

After that, we moved to yet another small town that had its own holiday decor in the downtown area and an annual Christmas parade. The parade was a big deal every year, and it seemed everyone in the town participated in one way or another. I remember wondering who was going to watch the parade, because it seemed almost everyone was involved in the festivities in some way! But every year, the spectators came out to see every local group that participated: high school marching bands, little league and high school cheerleaders, dance troupes, dance schools, convertibles with beauty queens perched atop them, restaurants and other local businesses sponsoring trucks or cars decorated for Christmas, and yes, Santa…always at the end of the parade, waving joyfully to all the girls and boys.

We have raised our daughter in a bigger city, Charlotte, North Carolina, and I absolutely love living here. However, occasionally, I think she has missed out on some of the joy of living in a small town…like the small town Christmas parade. Don’t get me wrong. She has experienced Christmas in different ways in the Charlotte area. When she was a little girl, we would go to Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens to see the lights (and Santa) there. We went to Winterfest at Carowinds Amusement Park to see the lights (and Santa) there. We visited Santa regularly at our club and at the local mall. We did lots of fun Christmas-themed things. But she never went to a small town Christmas parade, and she never had the opportunity to participate in a small town Christmas parade with her cheer team or dance class.

The good news? She has no idea that she missed that experience. Maybe I will drive her through some small towns this holiday season so she can see how it’s done. We still have a couple more weeks. I’ll get excited about it too, because some things never change.

by Kelly Mattei

Wrapping Paper

Wrapping paper.

Every year, as Christmas approaches, I meet a friend at Paper Skycraper in Charlotte to find stocking stuffers and wrapping paper. It’s a tradition. We pick a day, and we know we will enjoy a leisurely lunch at Thai Taste before walking next door to Paper Skyscraper to shop ’til we drop. Seriously, I always walk out with way more than I planned to purchase.

For those who don’t know, Paper Skyscraper is on East Boulevard in the Dilworth neighborhood of Charlotte. According to their website, they have been open for more than 30 years. I have been shopping there for more than 20. I moved to Charlotte in 2000, and I remember going there with a friend soon after moving here. They have lots of fun gifts and lots of quirky gifts. If you decide to go, know in advance that this is not your grandmother’s gift shop. It’s full of sexual innuendos and f-bombs…even on some of the wrapping paper! One thing is for sure, you will laugh a lot while you’re there. If you can’t get into the store, you can shop some of their items online here.

Our designated day to shop together this year was last Friday afternoon. We met at Thai Taste first. I had the Pad Thai with chicken and medium spice, and she had the green curry dish. (I seriously considered ordering the curry dish to take home for dinner. It looked that good.) We had just ordered when another friend called us, and we immediately asked her to join us. She was only about five minutes away, so it worked out perfectly, and our duo became a trio! We enjoyed a lunch and lots of laughs before strolling over to Paper Skyscraper. You can see more about Thai Taste here.

As soon as we walked into Paper Skyscraper, I saw one of the light-up ceramic Christmas trees we all had in the 1970s. I wanted it, but I resisted the urge to purchase it. I didn’t even check the price, because I knew if I gave it too much attention, I would have to have it.

My friends made their way to the area full of fun gifts in the side room, while I made my way first to the wrapping paper. I am obsessed with their wrapping paper, and like a child, I didn’t want someone to walk away with some paper I might want. I found lots of lovely paper. I’m not a wrapping paper snob, but I do like quality paper. I always know I can find it at Paper Skyscraper. They have lovely rolls of Christmas paper and some funny ones too. Plus, they have sheets of beautiful wrapping paper made from recycled materials. When I say it’s beautiful, I mean it’s beautiful. I picked up a few rolls of paper and put them in my hand basket. I picked eight or ten sheets of recycled wrap and put that in my hand basket, and I made my way to the other side of the store to meet my friends. What I hadn’t considered was that, with all those rolls of paper sticking out of my basket, I was likely to knock things off every rack along the way…and I did. Fortunately, I didn’t break anything. After rearranging the basket, so I didn’t knock down anything else, I was able to continue shopping with my friends, who had been smarter than I was and waited till the end to get their wrapping paper. After an hour or so of shopping, we all left with lots of stocking stuffers, gifts for friends and neighbors, and wrapping paper.

I now have a lovely assortment of wrapping paper and have been wrapping gifts for the last couple of days. I love wrapping gifts. It’s very relaxing. Aside from the Paper Skyscraper wrapping paper, I also have some I ordered from Zazzle. Our daughter will be quite surprised when she sees it, and I’m sure she will think I’m totally crazy. It’s personalized wrapping paper with family photos on it. You can order it from Zazzle here. It can add a little fun to your gifts! I have wrapped lots of gifts, and they are piling up in the keeping room off my kitchen.

If we would only get our Christmas tree up, I would have somewhere to put them!

***Also, see great wrapping paper at the following retail stores in Charlotte:

The Buttercup, 1035 Providence Rd

Swoozie’s, 4722 Sharon Rd Ste G

Paper Twist, 2902 Selwyn Ave, Ste A

by Kelly Mattei

Back Home Ballers

Back Home Ballers

When I was growing up, there were young people in and out of our house all the time. Likewise, when our daughter was growing up, we had young people in and out of our house all the time. And then, this past August, she went to college, and our house became a lot quieter. She came home once in September and once a few weeks ago, and we got to see one or two of her friends, but now that Thanksgiving is upon us, they’re all home from college, and there is so much activity! It has been like a revolving door of friends since she got home, and we couldn’t be happier! If you have seen the SNL video titled Back Home Ballers, you know where I stole my title. If you’re not familiar with it, you can see it here. And if you’re a parent of a college student, you get it. Your husband is probably the “valet,” carrying bags up and down the stairs. At our house, I’m the mom who just went to Costco (or Publix, in my case) in anticipation of the college student’s arrival…and hopefully, there are lots of friends dropping in too! And the students themselves? Well, they are just enjoying every minute of the attention and preferential treatment.

I remember my friend, Angela, visiting me at my mother’s house when I was in my forties. I had gone down to Alabama to visit with Mother for a few days, and lucky for me, Angela lived nearby. One particular trip, Angela came over, and we were playing “Heads Up” with our smartphones, laughing and poking fun at each other. We talked and laughed and talked and laughed some more. I remember Mother saying, “Having y’all together here makes me happy. Y’all bring fun energy into my house.” I heard her, but I didn’t fully understand what she was saying.

Now I get it.

Now I understand what mother was feeling. I feel energized with all these friends of our daughter in and out of the house. I’ve been to the grocery store four times in anticipation of their visits. Normally, I do not enjoy the grocery store, but this week, I have enjoyed every minute of it…practically skipping and dancing down the aisles! I have tried to purchase all their favorite comfort foods, because I want them to feel comfortable and a little nostalgic. We have a few more days before they all head back to college, so I hope to prepare a few more meals, snacks, and desserts before they leave. My refrigerator is still bursting at the seams, so they need to come over as often as possible to eat all that food! The benefit for me? While they hang out in my kitchen, laughing and talking, I absorb their fun, positive energy, and I get to laugh a lot! Good times.

Last night, in fact, a few friends were here, and we stayed up well into the night laughing and talking…even crying some too, but it was good crying. I have watched these young people grow up! Obviously, I have known my daughter her whole life, but I’ve known most of her friends since they were five or even before that! We go way back…lots of history there. Now they have new lives at their universities spread across the country, so there was lots to cover there too.

I have even been able to drive my daughter and some of her friends to the homes of other friends…and even pick them up late at night! Many of these college students are home without their cars, because they have to fly back and forth to their universities. Our daughter doesn’t have her car here, so I almost feel like I used to feel before she was old enough to drive! Yes, it was aggravating sometimes then, but now I’m the mom driving late at night with a big smile on my face! I’m just so happy! That is my life right now! It’s real, y’all.

And you know what? I’m loving every minute and trying to lock things into my long term memory!

*Feature photo from NBC’s SNL* I wish I had thought to get our daughter and a group of her friends to pose like this!

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