by Kelly Mattei

Good People Are Easy to Find

Good people are easy to find.

Last Thursday morning, I met my friend, Angela, in the Charlotte airport and boarded a plane to Los Angeles. It was the first time the two of us have taken a real trip together, just the two of us, I think. We have taken vacations with our daughters, and we have even taken vacations with my husband, but as far as I can remember, we had never taken a real vacation without anyone else. We have been friends for almost 40 years, so we were overdue. Before we went, we knew we were likely to have a lot of fun laughing, drinking, talking, relaxing, and more, but we had no idea what was ahead of us. We were pleasantly surprised!

It all started when I boarded the American Airlines flight to LAX. I got to my seat and lifted my carry-on bag into the overhead bin. Immediately, a gentleman in the row in front of me asked, “Would you like to trade seats?” I didn’t want to be rude, but I plan my travel ahead of time and pick my seats carefully. I booked the aisle seat on row 2, because I like to be near the front of the plane, but I do not like to sit at the bulkhead. I like to be able to put my handbag underneath the seat in front of me. When you sit at the bulkhead, you have to put all carry-ons, including your handbag into the overhead bin, and I don’t like to do that. Some people might think it’s ridiculous that I feel that way, but I like having my migraine meds, my reading materials, and my earbuds readily available. Therefore, I told the gentleman, “No, thank you, I don’t like sitting at the bulkhead. Sorry.” At about that time, my seatmate arrived, and he was that gentleman’s business partner. The first gentleman in row 1 turned to the woman in the seat next to him and asked if she would switch with my seatmate. She agreed and came back to sit by me.

Before we took off, I told her, “Please don’t hesitate to let me know if you need to get up during the flight. It’s not likely I will fall asleep, but please just let me know, and I can let you out of the row at any time.” I also told her I always get an aisle seat, because I end up going to the bathroom several times, so I understand needing to get up. We exchanged pleasantries. Soon after takeoff, we engaged in conversation. Her story is not mine to tell, but I can tell you this: she is one of the loveliest, most interesting people I have ever met! I can tell you most people would love to meet her, and she has an incredible life story. In fact, you can read her story in her own words, because she has written a book about her different life experiences. Her name is Dr. Niedre Heckman, and the book is called The World Where I Belong: My Quest for Identity As a Black Woman in White Skin. You can purchase it on Amazon (I started reading it last night) here. Like I said, I will not tell her story, but as an introduction, I will tell you she is an African-American woman who is about my age, and she was born with the condition called albinism. I will not pretend to know everything about the condition, but the most obvious characteristic is the lack of pigmentation in one’s skin/hair/eyes. Those of us who don’t have the condition can only imagine what it’s like to grow up with it, but Dr. Niedre Heckman is sharing some insight into her own life and experience. I highly recommend the book, based simply on the fact that I found her to be fascinating. She is most kind and wants good things for other people. We can all learn something from her. Highly recommend her book! That good person (#1) was easy to find!

It was an incredible start to the weekend! When we arrived at baggage claim in LAX, I introduced my longtime friend (40+ years!), Angela, to Dr. Heckman, and she walked away with the same impression. It was foreshadowing, I believe, for the rest of the weekend. Our meeting set the tone for a weekend with great people.

The next day, we opted for a late lunch in our hotel’s largest restaurant. We had a great table for people watching, one of my favorite hobbies. I was not disappointed that day. We were lingering over cocktails after lunch when a couple came in and sat at a table nearby. I noticed they were taking pictures, so I motioned to the gentleman that I would be happy to take pictures for them. He misunderstood my poor attempt at sign language and came over to our table, asking, “Do y’all want me to take your picture?” I said, “No, thank you! We were offering to take yours, but did you just say ‘y’all’?” He said, “I did! I’m from Alabama!” We said, “We are too!” (I was born in Florida but grew up in Alabama before moving to Charlotte 25 years ago.) After some discussion, we figured out this charming southern gentleman grew up with someone I know in Charlotte! We had a great time chatting with him and his friend…day made! Oh, we also got a glimpse of a few celebrities, one of whom even impressed my college-age daughter! Angela and I were most impressed by the lovely people we spent time with on that beautiful, sunny afternoon. What a great “small world moment”! And another good person (#2) who was easy to find!

The next afternoon, we had a lunch reservation at one of my very favorite restaurants ever. We were welcomed warmly by the manager, whom I had met on a previous visit. He has a positive, uplifting spirit and a genuine warmth about him, so I was thrilled to see him again. I introduced him to Angela, and we enjoyed talking with him. The food was fantastic (as always), and the whole experience could not have been better. Why? Because the staff at the restaurant was attentive; they were friendly and made us feel special! Woot! Good person (#3)…easy to find.

From there, we went to a scheduled shopping session at a store on Rodeo Drive. I love shopping with a particular gentleman who works there, because I have known him for years. I first met him probably 10 years ago when he was working at another store in the area. After COVID, I lost track of him, as he moved back to his hometown. However, last June, I walked into this particular store with my daughter and a friend, but without an appointment. The doorman called for an associate to meet us at the door, and out walked my old friend from the other store! I had found him! We agreed it was a God moment…I cried. Now, every time I’m in town, I shop with him, and I’m thrilled to know he is doing very well. My visits with him (and sometimes my purchases) always put a smile on my face. Good person (#4), easy to find.

But wait! There’s more! Saturday night, Angela and I had a reservation at another of my favorite restaurants, but we weren’t terribly hungry. We were also feeling a little lazy. For a brief moment, we considered canceling our dinner reservation, but finally decided to rally and go. We arrived at the restaurant right on time, and the hostess said, “Ohhh! I have the perfect table for you!” She whisked us off to a table that was, indeed, the perfect table. We could see the whole room! There was a fun birthday group at the table next to us. There was excitement in the air! Our server approached our table almost immediately. When I looked up at her, she asked, “Do I know you from somewhere?” I looked at her, puzzled, and replied, “Maybe here?” She said, “Maybe Bel Air?:” I recognized her then, but it was one of those rare moments I didn’t recall the name…”What is your name?” She replied, “Francesca.” Y’all. I met her when I dined at a restaurant in Bel Air five years ago! She was my server, and the next time I went, a year later, I requested her. This time, she recognized me first. I’m usually the one who remembers all the names and faces, so I was absolutely flattered that she remembered me! She literally said to me, “I have thought of you many times and wondered if I would ever see you again! When I saw you walk in, I recognized you immediately!” I was so happy to reconnect with her, and now, I will request her every time I go to this particular restaurant. Good person (#5) easy to find.

Sunday night, we had dinner with a friend we have known for several years. We have always known he’s a good person. We stumbled upon a friendship with him years ago.

Just goes to show you…good people are easy to find…if you just keep your eyes and ears open. It was a great vacation with a great friends and lots of new friends.

by Kelly Mattei

All This Drone Talk…

All this drone talk reminds me of the 1970s, when we were obsessed with UFOs, or spaceships/flying saucers. Maybe everyone wasn’t obsessed with them, but it sure seemed like it when I was a little girl. I was terrified I might actually see one, and then, there was a high school bonfire.

I went to the TR Miller High School bonfire in Brewton, Alabama, with my neighbor friend, Allyson, and her family. I’m not sure what year it was, but it was probably the fall of 1974, which means I was seven years old. Allyson had an older brother who played on the football team, and I was lucky she invited me to the bonfire with her. Her mom drove us there in her two-tone, gray and black Buick (it was the first car I ever rode in that had electric windows!), and we were having a great time, when suddenly, as I remember it, things got a little crazy. I don’t know if a helicopter flew over, or if someone just pretended they saw a flying saucer, but it seemed people were screaming, “UFO! UFO!” To me, it seemed like everyone started running. My memory could be skewed. I was just seven years old, after all, and honestly, someone might have just played a trick on us. When things got crazy, Allyson and I ran to her mother’s car and dove into the back seat. It seems her brother eventually came to the car and rode shotgun, and Allyson and I talked about UFOs all the way home. I feel sure I went inside telling my family about the UFO at the bonfire and how we had heard someone say UFOs liked bonfires. I was seven. Someone did say that, and of course, I believed it, because why wouldn’t some Martians want to hang out at a high school bonfire in Brewton, Alabama? There are a lot of nice people in Brewton, and back then, there was Bracken’s Big R Restaurant, where you could get a great burger or some fried chicken. It would have been worth the trip for some Martians, for sure.

I’m not saying these drones aren’t real. I believe drones could be flying over us, and I have no idea who would be piloting them. I know that, a couple of years ago, a drone flew over my backyard while I was out there at night. It wasn’t one of these big drones they’re talking about now. It was a small drone someone probably got for Christmas. It was likely just someone from another house in the neighborhood, but it gave me the heebie geebies that someone was watching me in my own backyard. I went inside promptly.

I read today on the Next Door app that people in Charlotte are saying they are seeing the big, SUV-sized drones. Some have even posted some pretty impressive, believable videos. Maybe there are massive drones hovering overhead suburban South Charlotte? I guess anything is possible. We do, however, live in a city with a pretty busy airport, so there are lots of planes landing and taking off all the time. Just last night, I was driving down the winding Elm Lane and saw a bright light overhead. Once I got to the traffic light, I looked at my FlightAware app and saw it was just a plane coming in from Pittsburgh. In fact, I spend a lot of time outdoors on the patio at night, checking out the stars, the satellites, and yes, the airplanes, and so far, I haven’t seen a drone as big as an SUV. One night, however, I did freak out a little when there was something with blinking lights flying overhead making a whirring sound. Even our Doberman was freaked out! Finally, after standing there watching for a minute or two, I realized it was a blimp. It was difficult to identify in the dark until it was directly overhead.

Right now, I’m still waiting to see a drone as big as an SUV hovering overhead. I’m not sure I want to see one, but if one appears, I’m sure I will react much like Allyson and I did in 1974. I will run for my life!

by Kelly Mattei

Epic Deal on Colorful Rolling Tote Bag

Epic deal on colorful rolling tote bag!

Y’all, this awesome tote bag from Simply Southern has spinner wheels, comes in some beautiful colors, and is less expensive than some competitors’ rolling totes! And did I mention it’s collapsible? This makes a great gift for the college student, the team mom, or just about anyone! I keep one in my car, so when I arrive home with a bunch of stuff, I can wheel it all into the house with this tote! As of writing, the turquoise and silver are priced at $64.99…a great price on an awesome gift!

  • Simply Southern Collapsible & Colorful Rolling Tote Bag – Perfect Shopping Bag on Wheels for Women, Mothers, Families, Grandmas – Bag on Wheels for Easy Transportation. I really love the pink and turquoise versions of this bag, but I like the silver and black too! Purchase any of them or all of them here!

  • But wait! There are more colors! How about orange or red? Purchase here.

  • Or maybe someone on your list would prefer a floral??? Yes, a floral! It’s glorious! See it here.
  • There’s even a color they call Rainbow, but to me, it looks like a holographic pink. It’s beautiful! Purchase here.

They’re all great! You just have to decide which color to give which recipient!

HAPPY SHOPPING!

***Sponsored ad. We receive commissions for items purchased through our Amazon links.***

by Kelly Mattei

Someone On Your List Wants Barbie™ x Stanley Quenchers

Someone on your list wants Barbie x Stanley Quenchers. Now there’s a collaboration with the Barbie brand, celebrating 65 years of Barbie! Barbie x Stanley! These are hot items this holiday season! See all eight variations here. This is a great opportunity to get the perfect gift for the people on your list who love Barbie, or Stanley, or both! Get them before they’re gone! Use your Amazon Prime membership for free shipping!

  • Stanley x Barbie™ Icon 40 Oz Quencher Icon is the key word here, because this one is iconic! This beauty features the iconic Barbie logo in…you guessed it…pink! This 40-oz Quencher is priced at $60 and makes a great gift! Get it here.

  • Stanley X Barbie™ ’60s Twist ’N Turn Quencher 40 Oz With a soft, sorbet gradient and tangerine lid and straw combo, this vibrant Barbie Quencher captures the movement that made the Twist ‘N Turn Barbie doll so striking! Great colors and great for the Barbie collector too! Get it here.

  • Stanley x Barbie™ ’80s Rockers Quencher 40 Oz Inspired by the Barbie and the Rockers dolls, the Rockers Quencher features bright, retro graphics that are ready to rock. In a new wave style that is quintessentially Barbie, this unstoppable Quencher is born to lead. Purchase here.

  • Stanley x Barbie™ ’70s Superstar Quencher 40 Oz The hot pink and purple gradient of the Superstar Quencher is all about glitz and glam. A pattern of gold, dainty stars echo the sparkle and star-shaped stand of the Superstar Barbie doll. Purchase here.

  • Stanley x Barbie™ ’80s Western Ken Quencher 40 Oz Lasso your own Western Ken Quencher in a Midnight-black. With a print that mimics the contrast stitching and silver buckle showcased on the Western Ken doll, stand tall — adventure’s calling. Purchase here.

  • Stanley x Barbie™ ’80s Dynamite Quencher 40 Oz Rich colors, gold accents and disco lights of the Dynamite Quencher celebrate the first Black Barbie doll. Iconic in every way, the Dynamite Barbie doll debuted in a vibrant red bodysuit and wrap skirt with glamorous jewelry and star quality poses to shine. Purchase here.

  • Stanley x Barbie™ ’80s Rockers Quencher 40 Oz Inspired by the Barbie and the Rockers dolls, the Rockers Quencher features bright, retro graphics that are ready to rock. In a new wave style that is quintessentially Barbie, this unstoppable Quencher is born to lead. Purchase here.

  • Stanley x Barbie™ Icon 30 Oz Quencher The Barbie Icon Quenchers arrive in a bright pop of Barbie pink to celebrate shining bright together and creating limitless possibilities for all. This one holds 10 few ounces than the others, so it’s easier to carry and costs less! Purchase here.

These won’t last long! Take advantage of this opportunity to make lots of people on your list happy. Granddaughters? Check! Daughters? Check! Cousins? Friends? Moms? Check..check…and CHECK!

HAPPY SHOPPING!

by Kelly Mattei

Polaroid: The Gift of Nostalgia and New Memories

Polaroid: The Gift of Nostalgia and New Memories

I love nostalgic gifts, and I believe lots of other people do too. There’s something fun about remembering old times, and a gift that can conjure up those memories is usually a hit! Polaroid does that for me. I can remember Polaroid cameras from my childhood, my teen years, and even as an adult! When I was a kid, it was fun waiting for the picture to develop, and back then, it was the only way we could see a photo almost instantly! I took one on a school trip to Mexico, and I still have the fun photos! Times have changed, but it’s still fun to print out instant photos instead of just looking at them on our phones. I have used Polaroids at parties as parting gifts and used them at other times for capturing new memories. I even see people using them online to surprise people with a picture of an unexpected guest standing behind them at a party!

Someone on your list would love a Polaroid, and now it comes in a bundle when you purchase the Polaroid Now+ Generation 2 – Camera + Film Bundle (16 Photos Included) – Bluetooth Connected App Controlled Instant Film Camera from Amazon. This is not the Polaroid of your childhood…it’s better! It still offers fun instant photos, but it also offers a Bluetooth compatible app that increases creativity, and the bundle comes with film and extra lens filters! It will be a favorite gift this Christmas! Or gift one to yourself and use it to make new memories during the holiday season! It’s offered in Black and White, so you can choose! It gets great reviews on Amazon, and it’s priced at less than $160 for the whole bundle! I’m buying a black one as soon as I finish typing. My daughter will have a lot of fun capturing memories at college with a Polaroid. Purchase now at Amazon here.

Order now to get them in time for the holidays!

by Kelly Mattei

Shark Air Drying and Styling System

Shark HD430 FlexStyle Air Styling & Drying System

Someone on your list wants a quality air styling and drying system, but you don’t want to fork out almost $500 for the Dyson? The Shark HD430 FlexStyle Air Styling and Drying System is the answer! I have a friend who called me yesterday telling me she had gotten one for her birthday, and she loves it. The best part? It works great, and it’s about $200 less than the Dyson. If someone on your list would like a drying/styling system, this could be your ticket! Order now to get it in time for Christmas!

Purchase here.

by Kelly Mattei

Smashbox Stocking Stuffers

Smashbox Stocking Stuffers.

Smashbox is a cosmetics brand that offers cruelty-free, vegan makeup and primers. They are favored by lots of makeup artists and photographers for their long-lasting wear. It’s high performance makeup for artistry made easy. Someone on your list needs some Smashbox in their life!

  • Smashbox Always On Longwear Matte Liquid Lipstick| Long Lasting, Waterproof + Non-Drying, 0.13 fl. oz. This long-lasting, waterproof, non-drying matte liquid lipstick is a crowd favorite for its vivid, lasting color. Offered on Amazon in 13 colors, this makes a great stocking stuffer. Get two or three colors while you’re there! Purchase here.

  • Smashbox Always Sharp Longwear Waterproof Kohl Eyeliner Pencil | Self-Sharpening Cap, Waterproof + High Pigment, 0.01 oz. Built-in self-sharpener ensures a precise tip with every twist of the cap on this popular eyeliner pencil. Eyeliner glides on easily to give eyes definition. Another great stocking stuffer under $30! Purchase here.

  • Smashbox Be Legendary Prime & Plush Lipstick | High Pigment + Moisturizing, 0.12 oz. Another great stocking stuffer under $30, this lipstick has high pigment, meaning beautiful color, and it moisturizes during wear! Purchase here.
  • Smashbox Always On Mood Board Eye Shadow Palette | High Pigment + Shimmer, 0.24 oz. This palette from Smashbox is offered in several varieties: Bougie Vibes, Earthy Vibes, Cozy Vibes, and Fiery Vibes. Each palette provides a different look but since it’s priced at just $39, go ahead and get two! BUTTERY SMOOTH: Glides on and blends without skipping or dragging. Shades can be worn alone or combined for custom depth and dimension. Purchase here.
  • Smashbox The Original Photo Finish Smooth & Blur Makeup Primer | Vitamin E + Oil Free This stuff is legendary. It provides a great, smooth finish that helps blur fine lines and pores. It’s great for anytime wear! Primes skin, helping makeup look better, longer, so the wearer is set for the day or night. This is another “under $30” stocking stuffer! Get it here.
  • Smashbox The Cali Contour Palette | Highlighter + Bronzer I love a good highlighter and bronzer palette. Last month, I forgot to take my makeup with me on vacation, so I ran into a store and purchased this for my contouring, highlighting, and bronzing needs! It was so easy to pack when it was time to come home. I’ll be traveling with it from now on. Pick from two different color palettes. At $46, it’s a deal. Get it for someone on your list here.

HAPPY SHOPPING!

***SPONSORED AD. WE RECEIVE COMMISSIONS FOR ITEMS PURCHASED THROUGH OUR LINKS.

by Kelly Mattei

Gifts For Women (that includes Mom)

Gifts for women (that includes Mom)

Lots of people find the women in their lives are difficult to buy for at the holidays. You’re not the only one trying to come up with gift ideas for Mom or your wife or other friends/family members. In fact, I get texts from people every day asking for help, so I’m going to throw some ideas out there. Some of them might be repeats from previous posts, but there will be some new ones in here too:

  • UGG Women’s Classic Ultra Mini Boot When I want to really relax at home and have comfortable shoes on my feet, I reach for my Uggs. I have all kinds of them…tall, short, classic, slippers…but these Classic Ultra Minis are great for me around the house. My daughter loves these too. In fact they’re on her Christmas list this year! Maybe Santa will bring them. Most of the women on your list would love this gift. It’s available in more than 20 colors. Purchase here.

  • Warmies neck wraps, eye masks, and heated slippers. You had me at “heated slippers.” They’ll actually microwavable slippers. To me, that sounds so incredible that I ordered some to put under the tree for myself! And the neck warmer? That’s always welcome. It can also be used on aching legs or even an aching back. Unlike a heating pad, you can walk around with warmies, because you aren’t attached to the wall with an electrical cord. Purchase slippers for Mom here. Purchase a microwavable neck wrap for her here. And the eye masks (heat them for relaxation or freeze them to de-puff eyes) can be purchased here.
  • Laura Geller New York Beauty Products. It’s what Mom wants! Laura Geller New York has beauty products that are made for mom! They’re current. They’re gorgeous. And they’re good for her skin! Get her the LAURA GELLER NEW YORK Jelly Balm Moisturizing Tinted Lip Color – Cocoa-Motion – Hydrating Vitamin E – Semi-Shine Finish here. It’s moisturizes her lips every time she uses it! She’ll thank you! Or maybe you’d like to get her the LAURA GELLER NEW YORK Award-Winning Baked Balance-n-Brighten To Go Travel Size Color Correcting Powder Foundation. It helps her skin while it covers little imperfections and creates a glowing finish. Find the right shade from the ones offered…it’s color correcting, and it’s not difficult to find her shade. Purchase here.
  • Drybar The Single Shot Round Blow-Dryer Brush This is a great gift for Mom! I have one that I use regularly! It gives my hair lift and body, whether I start with wet, damp, or dry hair. I love mine, and your Mom will likely love it too! Purchase here.
  • Dry Divas Shower Cap. Sounds weird, I know, but in my opinion, these are the best shower caps going. I have several of them, some of which I have had for seven years! I like them, because I have a lot of hair, and they actually cover all my hair on the days I don’t want to wash it in the shower. I have never found a better one. Plus, they’re so cute! Purchase the leopard one here and get it in time for Christmas!
  • SWOMOG Women Zipper Up Robe I know people laugh about moms getting robes for Christmas, but I love a robe. Seriously, I do. I always have. Even when I was a little girl, I liked to have a good robe to wear around the house. This one, though, is what I consider more of a “get ready robe.” When I get out of the shower, I might bundle up in a heavy robe for a few minutes, but when it’s time to do my hair and makeup, I don’t like to wrestle with a heavy robe. I put on my “get ready robe” that’s a lightweight, zip-up robe. Get one for mom here.
  • Bible Verse Jar This is a great gift for anyone. My mother would have loved this. I have one, and I sent one to my daughter in college, thinking it might help her when she is stressed or sad. It’s color coded by situation. Great gift. Get it here.
  • Credit Card Holder Wallet for Women I have one of these and get compliments on it all the time. Even my college-age daughter’s friends give me compliments on this wallet. It’s the one thing in my life that is truly organized! It also protect against credit card scanning with RFID protection. It comes in several colors. Right now, I’m carrying the green one, and my daughter has it in red. Get one for mom or any woman on your list here.
  • Kenneth Jay Lane Jewelry. Y’all, I’m just going to tell the world: I love Kenneth Jay Lane Jewelry. It’s all fake, but wow, he does a great job of making fake look good! I wear different pieces all the time, and some of them are my favorites! Any woman on your list is likely to love a Kenneth Jay Lane piece! There are lots of different price points, so you’re likely to find something in your budget that will be perfect for the women on your list. See Kenneth Jay Lane at Amazon here. Make sure you scroll all through the Kenneth Jay Lane items, as there are some that start as low as $22. I have a friend who has asked Santa for some gold polished earrings ($55) you can see here. If gems are their thing, see some great earrings for $109 here. Personally, it wouldn’t hurt my feelings to find the resin and glass earrings listed here. There are so many lovely necklaces here.

Go find something for the women on your list!

HAPPY SHOPPING!

*Sponsored ad. We receive commission on items purchased through links.

by Kelly Mattei

Warmies for Everyone On Your List

Warmies for everyone on your list.

Surely you’ve seen the commercials on TV for Warmies, weighted microwavable plush animals for kids. But did you know Warmies makes products for the whole family? I didn’t until I started to order a Warmie plush for a child and saw an ad for their slippers and neck wraps! Wow! Stay with me to learn more:

  • Warmies slippers. Who knew Warmies makes slippers that are microwavable? I’m getting some for the people on my list right now…including me! I don’t have any yet, but the reviews are great. Put them in the microwave and slip your feet into warmth when you’re tired or cold. It sounds dreamy to me, and they come in different styles. My daughter will love them too, and I’m thinking every female I know needs a pair. These are fantastic gifts for the mom/wife/girlfriend who’s difficult to buy for, and at writing, Amazon has a 10% off coupon for some styles you can use! To see the different styles, click here. Santa will be bringing me the Cozy Leopard Slippers seen here. And my daughter will get the cute gray ones you can see here.
  • Warmies wraps. I’m guessing, if you didn’t know about the slippers, you didn’t know about the neck wraps. Again…one for every member of our family. They are microwavable, making them perfectly soothing for aching shoulders or even knees, hips, or back, and they are much safer than a heating pad. You can purchase them in animal shapes (dog, sloth, bunny) or in standard wraps. It appears not all styles will arrive by Christmas, so pay attention when ordering. See the selection at warmies on Amazon here.
  • Warmies Eye Mask. Does someone on your list need extra help relaxing? These Warmies eye masks are microwavable and lavender scented for extra relaxation. OR you can stick them in the freezer and use to revive tired eyes! At only $18.99, they make a thoughtful, inexpensive gift. Purchase here.
  • Warmies large handwarmer (hamster). Y’all, these handwarming hamsters are so cute! They are oversized Warmies you stick in the microwave, and then stick your hands in them for warming. They’re great for use at home, especially when kids come in from a cold day out or a snowy outing. Purchase here.
  • Warmies weighted plush animals. Of course, they sell the often-advertised Warmies weighted plush animals that are microwavable. Kids will love them, but my college-age daughter is getting one too. To see everything Warmies offers, click here. Click around the whole page to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list!

Happy Shopping!

***We receive commission on items purchased through our links.***

by Kelly Mattei

Great Deals on Active Family Gifts

Great Deals on Active Family Gifts…

Our little family has had a lot of of fun over the years with active holiday gifts. Here are some great ideas for members of every family. Let’s gooooooo:

  • Razor DXT Drift Trike Yellow, One Size This drift trike has a capacity of 198 pounds, so mom and dad can join in on the fun when Jr’s not playing with it. Steel trike style frame combined with Super Slider POM rear wheels. Riders can power slide through corners, throw fish tails or fast 180s! It’s fun for the whole family… no joke, I think everyone in my family would have a blast with these! I should mark these as ***Great Gifts for Grandchildren***! Grandma and Grandpa, you will be heroes if you deliver these at Christmas! And at writing, it’s 20% off, just $169. Get one (or two or three) for your little daredevils (or Dad!) here.
  • Razor RipRider 360 Caster Trike for Kids Ages 5+ – Lightweight, Rubber Handlebars, Steel Frame, for Riders up to 160 lbs. A great gift for kids (and some adults!) of all ages. This was, without a doubt, one of our daughter’s favorite toys when she was growing up. It keeps them moving! Purchase here. Razor makes lots of great active gifts to keep kids moving. To see what they offer, click here.
  • Flybar Pogo Sticks. Y’all, these were some of the best Christmas gifts ever. We were all pretty good at it, but our daughter could pogo forever. I have videos of her bouncing all over the driveway and the back patio. These are great exercise, and you can purchase them for different ages and levels…yes, even adults! To see a Flybar pogo stick for kids 40 to 80 pounds, click here. To see the pogo stick for weights 120-220, click here. For 80-160 pounds, click here. But there are pogo toys for all ages! Check out the Pogo Ball for children and adults up to 200 pounds here. Check out the Flybar store here.

  • Spikeball 3 Ball Original Roundnet Game Set – Includes 3 Balls, net and Bag. A great way to get the family outdoors and playing together. This competitive game is tons of fun, and it’s portable! Set up is easy. It’s also a great gift for college students who need to take a study break with friends! Get it here.
  • Cornhole Sets. Cornhole is a great game for the whole family to play together! It’s fun for all ages and brings together groups of people. It’s great at parties or just with the family or neighborhood kids. Set up a tournament! To purchase this great gift for someone on your list, click here.

  • Razor RipStik Ripster, compact lightweight caster board, for kids 8+ Kids love RipStiks! And frankly, lots of adults enjoy them too! The Razor RipStik Ripster’s lightweight and compact size is perfect for riders with a narrower stance. Inclined, 360-degree caster trucks and concave deck provide a one-of-a-kind, twist-and-carve ride. Slip-resistant deck platforms deliver maximum grip.. High-grade urethane wheels with ABEC-5 bearings deliver a smooth ride. Get one for someone on your list here. Or maybe a version for kids and adults you can purchase here. Or maybe the more sophisticated version that has more maneuverability and a weight capacity of 220 lbs here.
  • Stomp Rockets. These have been around for a while. My daughter and all the neighborhood kids loved Stomp Rockets when she was a little girl. It was a great toy that got them outside, moving, and playing together! I’m sure they have been improved since the early 2000s. Any kid on your list will love this! Purchase here.
  • Ankle Skip Ball for Kids, Foldable Skip it with Colorful Flash Wheel. When I was a kid, we had something similar to this that had a lemon toy on the end of a flexible tube. We skip-hopped all over the neighborhood! It seems it has been improved! This toy provides hours of great exercise and fun! Get one for every member of the family! Get it here.

Active gifts are a great way to get the whole family together and get each family member moving around! Kids can get exercise without even knowing they are getting exercise with these great gifts.

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