Tag: gift guide

  • Last Minute Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas For Adults & Kids

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    Happy Monday!  Valentine’s Day totally got the drop on me this year.  Usually I have gifts already purchased and hidden by the end of January.  Unfortunately it’s looking like I’m going to be out here in these streets with the rest of the procrastinators and forgetters doing last minute shopping.
    Thank goodness stores like Target and Walmart offer same day pickup and/or delivery.  Anyways, if you’re like me and will be last minute shopping, check out some of the gift ideas below.  There’s a mixture of traditional and non-traditional suggestions.

    Adult Gift Ideas

    Jewelry | We’ve been using jewelry as a way to show our for centuries now.  It’s hard to go wrong with earrings, a ring, or maybe a watch in your loved one’s favorite color.

    Books | Did you know more people visited the library last year than the movies? So it’s safe to say that a book by your loved one’s favorite author will be right up their alley.  Also, another fun concept would be get a book that you can buddy read together.  Reading always even more fun when you have someone to talk about all the juicy bits with as you read.

    Treats | They say food is the way to a man’s heart and I’m here to say that food is the way to EVERYONE’s heart.

    Beauty & Grooming | Listen I have never turned down gifts of lipstick, hair care products, or skincare stuff. I love it when my loved ones want to help me look and feel my best by investing in me via beauty product gifts.

    For The Home | I wish other adults understood how much their peers appreciate simple gifts like a new set of coffee mugs, towel sets, candles, and other home goods.
    Flowers | I know flowers seem like a cliché gift to give but studies have shown that having fresh flowers in a home reduces stress.  So get the flowers.

    Entrepreneurship | There’s more than one way to support your loved one’s business.  Something as simple as a planner can go a long ways to helping them get organized by giving them a central place to jot down business meetings, lunch dates, and more.

    Kids Gift Ideas

    Toys & DIY | I don’t know a kid alive who turns down the gift of toys after Christmas.  My little guy loves getting toys for all the holidays.  And Moo, my tween, is all about DIYs.

    Treats | Remember food is the way to everyone’s heart including kids!

    Clothes | In case you didn’t get the memo, kids love clothes too.  Moo has hit the tween age and she’s all about clothes and shoes.

    Books | Don’t let these kids fool you, they love reading too!

    What is your favorite Valentine’s Day gift?
  • 20 Gift Ideas For Disney Lovers Of All Ages

    This post contains affiliate links.  I may receive a commission for purchases made through links in this post.

    When you wish upon a star, makes no difference who you are, anything your heart desires will come to you. 🎶🎤  

    There’s no denying that Disney is one of the world’s most loved brands.  Ask any Disney lover to describe Disney in one word and I’m sure they’ll say “magical.”  And whether we’re celebrating the holidays, a birthday, or just because, you know the one thing we Disney lovers appreciate and want?  More Disney!   So I’ve put together this list of 20 items that will make great gifts for the Disney lovers in your life.

    20 Gifts Perfect For Disney Lovers

    1. Pictopia: Disney Edition |  Who doesn’t love Pictopia?!  This game is sure to give your family hours of play time.  Definitely pick it up.

    2. Disney Tie |  Guys are show their Disney side with this understated, but still cute Disney tie.  Honestly, I’m hoping to find a bowtie version of this tie as well.  Can you imagine the adorable father and son pictures you could take, moms?

    3. Minnie Mouse LEGO DUPLO Block Set |  If your kids love building and love LEGO, this Minnie Mouse building blocks set will be the perfect gift for them.  Plus, the added bonus is that blocks help kids to build up their motor skills.  So this gift is a win-win for parents and kids.

    4. Family Feud: Disney Edition |  Who knew that Family Feud came in a Disney edition?  I didn’t.  Board games are such a great way to bond with family (and friends too).

    5. Let’s Go To Disney Shirt |  Whether you’re visiting a Disney Park or taking a Disney Cruise for the first time or millionth time, this shirt is a must-have.  I’ve snagged it and can’t wait to wear it on the drive to Disney World for our first visit.

    6. Pua Pillow Pet |  Pillow Pets are one of the greatest things invented.  They’re pillows, toys, and “security blankets” all in one.  And the Disney themed Pillow Pets the most adorable.  The lovely folks at Pillow Pet sent the kids this Pua one as an early Christmas present and they were beyond thrilled.  From Target to road trips, Pua goes EVERYWHERE with us now.  He’s an official member of our crew and that he’s celebrating his first Christmas with us.

    7. Mickey Mouse Dad Cap |  Dad caps seem to have made a comeback this year.  Although down here in the South, they never really went out of style.  Anyways, you can show off your Disney love and keep the sun out of your eyes with Mickey Mouse cap.

    8. Disney Stamp Set |  If there’s one thing kids really love, it’s arts and crafts.  My kids in particular really love stamp sets.  Also, stamp sets aren’t just for kids either.  I got Moo a Disney stamp set for Easter and have used it to decorate the outside of birthday card envelopes sent to family and to decorate a spread in my bullet journal.

    9. Princess Tiana Water Bottle |  If you’re a parent then you know kids detest drinking water . . . unless you put in a water bottle or sippy cup with their favorite character on the outside.  Moo and I are partial to this Princess Tiana water bottle.  And I mean considering Tiana is a chef and restaurant owner, this food and drink related Disney merch is totally true to her character.

    10. Princess Bedtime Stories |  Do you have a princess who loves to read?  Then Moo and I recommend getting her the Princess Bedtime Stories book.  It’s collection of stories from some of the most beloved Disney Princesses and the perfect way to get a glimpse of that what the princesses have been up to after their movies ended.

    11. Disney Princess Beauty Set |  Moo got one of these beauty sets the year before last and we actually just finished using up the last bottle of nail polish over the summer.

    12. Black Panther RC Stealth Hunter |  My little guy has been asking for one of these and I think I’m finally going to give in and get it for him.  It’s remote controlled.  So besides keeping him entertained, it’ll help with his motor skills.  I keep telling y’all that the best for kids to learn is through play.

    13. Maui T-shirt |  “What can I say except you’re welcome!”  Moani is still a crowd favorite around here.  “You’re Welcome” still gets bumped through the speakers on full volume, especially the Jordan Fisher version.  This is a men’s shirt but I’m so getting one for myself.

    14. Mickey Mouse Earrings |  Aren’t these cute?!  Just the right amount of flash.

    15. Snow White Purse |  I absolutely LOVE this purse.  The pops of red just does it for me.  This would be perfect to take on a Disney trip to hold a few essentials like your wallet, sunscreen, portable phone charger, etc.  If you have babies or toddlers, you can could even squeeze in a few diapers and a slim pack of wipes into this purse.

    16. Fix It Felix Mini Arcade Game |  What kid isn’t into video games?  My kids have been asking if Fix It Felix was a real game since Wreck-It Ralph came out.  Of course, I shared my experience with playing it but they’ve been wanting to try it out for themselves.  This is the perfect way for them to enjoy a game from my childhood.

    17. Black Panther Backpack Set |  Love this backpack set.  It comes with a matching lunchbox.  For us this would be perfect for my  little guy when we go on road trips.  He can pack toys and a blanket in the backpack and snacks in the lunchbox.

    18. Minnie Mouse Phone Case |  Show your Disney side with this super adorable phone case!

    19. Beauty & the Beast Snow Globe |  Y’all already know my love for Beauty and the Beast runs deep.  This snow globe is at the top of my Disney trinkets wish list.  If you’re looking for some Disney merch to collect that won’t take up a lot of space and looks beautiful, snow globes are the way to go.  You can set them virtually on any flat surface to add some extra decor.

    20. Disney Villainous Board Game |  My son loves villains!  Sos this game would be perfect for us.  We get our Disney fix and he gets to walk on the dark side for a bit.

    There you have it folks!  I hope really hope this gift guide helps you out if you’re wondering what to get for the Disney lover in your life.  Be sure to share this with your friends!
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  • My Ultimate Birthday Wish List

    This post contains commission links.  I may receive a commission for purchases made through links in this post.

    🎤 Yo shawty it’s almost my birthday.  So, I’m gone party cuz it’s almost my birthday!! 🎉 Okay, corny rap bars aside, y’all I’m so excited that birthday is pretty much right around the corner.  This year has been trying, heartbreakingly sad, and draining to say the least.  I know some you noticed my absence here on the blog as well as my lack of posting on social media.

    And at the end of the day, I’m incredibly grateful to still have my life, my health, my strength, and my family.  And honestly those are the main things I’ll be celebrating on birthday in addition to having made it 33 years on God’s green Earth.  If this year has taught me nothing else, it’s that life is precious and we need to cherish every second of it.

    All that said, I’d be lying if I said, I wasn’t looking forward to seeing what presents will be coming my way.  According to my horoscope in next month’s issue of Essence Magazine friends want to spoil me and that “Lena Horne might show up looking fabulous and bearing gifts.”  I don’t know who this Lena Horne lookalike is, but if my friends want to spoil me, who am I to say no.


    Instead, I’ll just help these friends (and family *cough, cough*) out by sharing my ultimate birthday wish list.  And if you have any friends who love being in the kitchen, Disney, Harry Potter, or looking stylish, then hopefully my wish list can serve as gift guide and give you some gifting inspiration.

    20 Gifts I Want For My Birthday

    1. Calvin Klein Wallet |  I’m past due for a new wallet.  My current one has rips in two of the inner pockets/compartments.  I avoid putting cash or anything in those compartment for fear it getting lost.  Also the fastener on it is starting to not fasten.  So it’s time for a new one and this CK wallet caught my eye.  And it’s in my power color!
    2. Pedestal Bowl |  I’ve been eying this bowl for some time now.  My dream color scheme for my home is white, copper, grey, and navy blue with wood accent furniture.  This bowl would look great on either the coffee table of dining room table.
    3. Juicy Couture Socialite Watch |  I miss wearing a watch.  Whenever someone asks me if I have the time, I always look to my naked wrist before realizing I can just use my phone.  And while my phone is convenient, I’d definitely like to get back in the habit of using a watch to tell time.
    4. iPhone XS Max |  This present actual came early.  I was surprised with a rose gold iPhone XS Max last week and I’m loving it!  I can’t wait to play around more with the camera.  I actually shot our Southern Christmas Show vlog with it. 
    5. Slipper Socks |  I’ve wanted some cute slipper socks for a few years now.  Hopefully, this will be the year that I get them.
    6. Sam Edelman Caprice Knee-High Boot |  I’ve had my eye on these boots for over two years.  And now that my current pair of boots is about to be laid out to pasture, I’m hoping these will be my next pair.  I hear that they’re super comfy and the quality can’t be beat.
    7. Book Lover Enamel Pin |  Listen, are you surprised that there’s something book related on this wish list?  Nope, me either.  Anyone who knows me, knows that I’m book lover.  Now I can rock my book lover status proudly.
    8. Marble Rolling Pin |  You know, I used to have a nice rolling pin to roll out cookie and pie dough, but then my kids got a hold of it.  And let’s just say my poor rolling pin did not survive.  I only paid $2 for it from the Target Dollar Spot.  So I wasn’t expecting it to last forever.  However, I’m hoping that this one will or at least close to forever since it’s marble and a lot more sturdy than my last one.
    9. Becoming |  Everyone and their mama has been raving about Michelle Obama’s new book.  Honestly, I’m kicking myself for having not pre-ordered this one.  I can’t wait to read it for myself though and report back to y’all with my full thoughts.
    10. Kate Spade Glitter Studs |  I love Kate Spade, God rest her soul.  I used to own one of her change purses and my siblings and I have gotten my mom a few Kate Spade pieces over the years.  It’s about time that I add another Kate Spade piece to my collection and these glittery earrings just spoke to me.
    11. Harry Potter Wand |  My love for J.K. Rowling and Harry Potter knows no bounds.  In fact, I’m currently rereading the Harry Potter series with JJ. 
    12. Glitter Moccasin Slippers |  How cute are these slippers?!!  This mommy is overdue for a new pair of slippers and these are perfect.  Besides the being super sparkly, I love that inside is lined with faux fur to keep my feet nice and toasty.
    13. Coconut Body Scrub |  I’m all about exfoliating.  Usually I make my own body but every now and then I like to try store bought scrubs.  And this one is made for dry skin which I definitely suffer from.
    14. Martha Stewart Tea Kettle |  Again, I’m obsessed with copper.  Also, I’ve wanted a stovetop tea kettle for some time now.  I had one years ago, but I think it got broken in a move or something and I never replaced it. 

    15. Espresso Mugs |  These cure double wall glass mugs have been everywhere.  I think they’re adorable and as a coffee and tea drinker, they will definitely get lots of use.
    16. KitchenAid Stand Mixer |  Just think about all the things I can mix up and make with this baby!  I’ve been wanting to get into bread making, especially since I’ve stumbled across some gluten-free bread recipes.  If I got this stand mixer, I would be one happy baker!
    17. Oral-B Pro 7500 |  We’re making the switch from manual toothbrushes to electric ones.  They can give a bit of a deeper clean.  Also, in the past I’ve found that the brush heads on electric toothbrushes are slightly smaller than ones of manual toothbrushes which allows them to fit better in the back corners of our mouths.  Back teeth need love too!
    18. Minnie Mouse iPhone Case |  A new phone requires a new case.  And since y’all know I’m about that Disney life, this Minnie Mouse iPhone case is too cute to pass up.  I’m hoping to find cases that are Beauty & the Beast as well as Princess Tiana themed in the future.  Gotta have options folks. 
    19. She Believed She Could Graphic Tee |  This is my motto for all 2019.  I’m working harder of kicking my self-doubt to the curb and believing in myself more.  We limit ourselves way more than other people ever will because of self-doubt.  This shirt will be my reminder that I can do whatever I put my mind (and effort) into doing.
    20. Beauty & the Beast Snow Globe |  I can’t remember the last time I got a snow globe, but I need this one in my life.  Beauty & the Beast is one of my all-time favorite Disney stories and movies.  I can related to Belle on so many levels.  This snow globe would look great on my bookshelf.

    Well, that’s it guys.  To all my fellow Sagittariuses, HAPPY BIRTHDAY/SAG SEASON!!  Let me know down in the comments what is or was on your birthday wish list this year.

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  • My 31st Birthday Wishlist

    Sagittarius season is finally upon us!  I’m over-the-moon with excitement that my 31st birthday is less than a month away.  I know it’s not quite a big deal at turning the BIG 3-0 is for some, but for me seeing another year of life is always a cause for celebration.  So to kickoff off birthday celebration and to give you guys some gift ideas for a loved one who has an upcoming birthday, I’m sharing 13 gifts from my birthday wishlist.

    Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links.

    1. Ankit Home Bossy Mug Set| How cute is this mug set?  I mentioned in my POPSUGAR October Reveal post that I collect mugs and I can’t wait add these to my collection.

    2. Kate Spade New York Darla Wallet| To say that I’m overdue for a new wallet is an understatement.  I’ve had my current wallet for over ten years.  It’s beyond falling apart and I couldn’t part with it until this year because it’s the first birthday gift my husband got me when we were still in the dating stage.  I’m thinking this Kate Spade Darla Wallet would make a nice replacement.  And who knows, it might last another ten years.

    3. Charlotte Tilbury Hot Lips Hel’s Bells Lipstick| I don’t wear a full face of makeup everyday.  For starters, my skin is way too sensitive and needs to breathe.  However, I try not to leave home without putting on some sort of lip product.  Sometimes I opt for a sheer gloss, but lately I’ve been wearing lots of reds and plums.  I love this deep plum shade, Hel’s Bells, by Charlotte Tilbury and can’t wait to try out it.

    4. Forever 21 Studded Pumps| I’ve always wanted a pair of studded pumps, but never got around to actually paying some.  I saw these at Forever 21 and now I have to have them.  I’d love to pair them with dark wash skinny jeans, a fitted black blazer and a light colored top to create a chic mompreneur look that I can wear to a casual brand meeting and a teacher’s conference.

    5. KitchenAid Professional 5 Qt Mixer| I can’t believe that I still haven’t invested in a standing mixer.  I’m a cook-off winner for goodness sake!  With the kids getting older and their stomachs becoming bottomless pits, we spend a lot more time in the kitchen baking and cooking.  This 5 quart standing mixer would definitely come in handy and pay for itself.

    6. Geek Chic Mug| This mug pretty much sums me up in two words.  Also, I happen to wear glasses.  I can’t wait to add this mug to my collection as well.

    7. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone Illustrated Edition| My family can tell you that I am a huge Harry Potter fan!  I watch the movie marathons everything they play on TV.  And I’m currently rereading the J. K. Rowling iconic Harry Potter series.  I was ecstatic when I found out they were rereleasing the books in illustrated editions.  I put the first book on my birthday wishlist and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets on my Christmas wishlist.  I can’t wait until the rest of the series is released next year.

    8. Olivia Burton Rose Gold Watch| Call me old fashion, but I still enjoy wearing a watch.  What I love about this watch from Olivia Burton is that it has a bigger face than a traditional women’s watch which will highlight the slenderness of wrist, but the band isn’t chunky.  Also, I like that the rose gold is more muted than other rose gold colored watches I’ve seen.  Plus, this watch is budget friendly- only $98.

    9. BeautyBlender| After watching tons of beauty tutorials on YouTube, I’m convinced that I need to hop on the BeautyBlender train to give my foundation a smoother application and finish.

    10. Canon PowerShot SX710| I’m still not sure if I’m ready to invest in a DSLR, so this Canon PowerShot is the great in-between camera.  Plus, after recently finishing my first photography course, I’m anxious to try out what I’ve learned.

    11. The Magnolia Story| I adore Chip and Joanna Gaines.  They seem so sweet and down to earth on their HGTV show, Fixer Upper.  I love that they’re outspoken about their faith and are family oriented.  I can’t wait to read more about their story and how they build their Magnolia brand from the ground up.

    12. Gold Spotty Dot Day Designer| I feel like I wasn’t nearly as organized as I should have been this year.  I’m committed to getting my act together and have heard that when it comes to planners and organizers, Day Designer is where it’s at.

    13. Clarisonic Aria Cleansing System| As we age, our skin changes.  This is especially true for the skin on my face.  It’s changed so much over years and I’ve found in the recent months that my skin needs a deeper cleaning than my usual exfoliating cloth can give.  So, it’s time to step it up and invest in a Clarisonic.

    If you have a family member or loved one with an upcoming birthday, I hope that you’ve gotten gift ideas from my birthday wishlist/gift guide.  These gifts will also make great Christmas presents as well since we’re in the thick of the holiday season.  Happy Holidays y’all!

    What is your ultimate birthday gift?