A lot of gratitude and maybe a little shopping...

Gratitude. I have so much appreciation and love for the people in my life that I don’t get to see nearly as much as I would like as of late. I find myself missing so many loved ones recently and wishing to hug them all. Soon, I tell myself, soon.

So many of us are struggling with loneliness, anxiety, depression, the list goes on and on. A little kindness goes a long way these days. And it can come in so many forms.

Lucky for us it’s gift-giving season! What a wonderful excuse to show a little extra love to those around us. I’ve always appreciated the village it takes to keep my family running. When that was suddenly pull out from under us, the adjustment was overwhelming. We’ve slowly put the pieces back together (and still not fully) but I’ve never appreciated these people more than I do now.

The essential workers who have kept us going have my endless gratitude. The teachers who are showing up every day for their students amaze me. I am in awe of the healthcare professionals who have worked tirelessly all year. These and so many more are deserving of our thanks this season. For those who touch your life directly, what a great time to send a little gift of thanks and appreciation.

I have always had gratitude in my life. I am so thankful for everyone who supports me and my family. I am grateful each and every day for both the little and big blessings in my life. And I take special care to show my appreciation for these angels at this time of year.

Your appreciation can come in so many forms. Don’t be burdened by a price tag or a dwindling bank account to show how much you care. A homemade card, or a heartfelt note can go a long way in giving a much needed boost to the special people in your life.

Should you have a little extra to spare. there are all sort of gift ideas and gift shops curated just to get you started on the right path. If this is in your plans, let’s start with taking advantage of those Black Friday deals. Oh, and no need to wait until Black Friday, those deals have already started!

Throughout this pandemic my shopping has been online and Black Friday will be no different. I suspect most retailers will have inviting online offers for shoppers. They already do! One of my favorite retailers has a perfect gift boutique for the ladies in your life with an added Black Friday savings that is already activated!

Check out a few of my favorite ideas below from Anthropologie!

George & Viv Holiday Bar Soap

Soap has never been a more meaningful or precious gift! And how unique and beautiful is this packaging for gift giving!

Pom Sock Slippers

These slippers provide warmth and style in the form of cozy footwear. Available in neutral hues, they pair easily with all your favorite leisurewear!

Rifle Paper Co.. for Anthropologie Garden Party Monogram Mug

I love a beautiful mug! Whether it’s for morning coffee or afternoon tea, the perfect mug is a daily necessity. Anthro has a variety of styles, prints and sizes to choose from!

Bianca Shimmer Snood

This snood provides both function and style for keeping warm this winter! It’s perfect for when you want a little extra warmth as you’re heading out the door.

Capri Blue Fir & Firewood Candle Tin

With so many of us spending so much time at home, candles that create a relaxing and inviting environment are more than welcome. Whether you crave a specific scent or size, there are a number of options available to choose from.

Woven Geo Dishcloths

Dishtowels are used constantly and always prove to be a useful accessory in your kitchen. These brightly colored towels are a compliment to any kitchen!

Confetti Throw Blanket

A throw is a gift of warmth and cozy that can compliment any room. Pick neutral tones that will easily pair with furniture and even holiday decor.

Lustered Stemless Wine Glasses

I love a beautiful glass. Especially when it’s a wine glass…. filled with wine. But whatever your beverage of choice, a beautiful glass can add a little sparkle to a dining table.

Shopping and Dressing in 2020 Has Changed.... Versatility is Key

These days most of us are doing the majority of our retail shopping online. The experience of shopping online is unique to that of being in a store. You can’t feel the fabric or try it on. Colors sometime look different online than they do in person. Even if a style is shown on a model she may not have the same body type as you so it can be hard to tell what will flatter you.

In spite of these drawbacks, there are a few perks to shopping online. In addition to shopping at times that are convenient to you from the comfort of your home, you can easily price check items for the best deal. If you can’t find the size you need at the site you’re on, it’s fairly easy to search for that same item across the web for the size you need.

So what are you shopping for? Our wardrobe needs have changed during this pandemic. We’re spending more time “at home” which allows us to indulge in our leisure-wear. But many of us are back to some kind of routine… whether we’re back to work in a classroom/school, running our small businesses, going to work in new ways, participating in “socially distant” activities … our lives are taking us in all kinds of directions and we’re looking for a wardrobe that can keep up!

To support all these different activities and changing routines, we need versatility. We need to have a sweater that can be paired with a skirt, jeans and sweatpants! We need fashionable sneakers and jeans that are both functional and trendy! We need to have fun with our wardrobe in a time that is so dark and feels so monotonous.

When the pandemic began, I lived in my leisurewear for months. I was homebound and lost. The summer brought us out of the house and into a fantastic warm weather wardrobe which for me personally was transforming. I needed that light to shine on me. As we head into winter once again, I have a different perspective. I realize that my energy and attitude when I get dressed for the day is more positive than when I shuffle around in sweats all day. When I look and feel put together, it makes a difference in my overall attitude.

Once you figure out what items will work best in your wardrobe, find the best way to obtain them. Shop around: try different styles, colors and sizes until you know what works best for you. Find the style you love and the fit that flatters you best. Here are a few of my favorites so far.

Loft Textured Cable Sweater

Pilcro Donna Tunic Pullover

Nine West Bryson Block Heel Bootie

Madewell Kickoff Trainer Sneakers in Leather & Spot Mix Calf Hair

BR Italian Wool Blend Sweater Tunic

J. Crew 9” Demi Boot Crop Jean

Lou & Grey Signature Softblend Sweatshirt

J. Crew Factory: Button-collar Pullover Sweatshirt

Mother Nature's Highs and Lows

I’ve been overwhelmed by life for a while and especially lately. I’ve had so many curveballs thrown at me over the last couple of weeks I am surprised I’m still standing. I feel like I can totally relate to mother nature here in New England. Today it was 70 degrees. Over the weekend, the temps dipped in New England… so much so that I had snow in my backyard for Halloween! Clearly this year has proven to be too much.

To say it’s too soon for snow is an understatement. I am far from ready. I am a summer person. So transitioning to Fall is the hardest for me. I am in complete denial. But mother nature got the best of me this year because there was no denying the snow I had to clean off my car.

As soon as I accepted the fact that the cold temps are here… I was hearing there would be a turnaround. I welcome the warmer weather with open arms, but I know it’s also time to start preparing for the cold. Last weekend, I started making the wardrobe transition. I took out my coats and winter accessories to make available when I need them. I took inventory of what I have and what I need. And I started shopping for the items I need to fill the gaps in my current wardrobe.

As I began to look for winter accessories it occurred to me that you might be in the same boat. Below are a few suggestions on much needed items for winter in New England. I know this is probably the least of your concerns as you make plans to enjoy the warmer weather this weekend… but then again, this is your chance to get ahead! And in a year like this… we should take every advantage we can get!

Pick a Pom Robbed Beanie Base (Anthropologie)

Hats:

This beanie comes in a few color and pattern choices and can be purchased separate from the pom-pom. This allows for a number of combinations between beanie & pom for the perfect combination that will match you personal style.

Cole Haan Slick Wool Wrap Coat

Sam Edelman Faux Fur Teddy Coat (Nordstrom)

A&F Wool Blend Dad Coat

Sam Edelman Puffer Coat (Nordstrom)

Coats:

There are so many choices on the style of coat you can purchase this season. Listed here are just a few of the most popular: Wrap Coat, Teddy Coat, Dad Coat & Puffer Coat. Each of these styles offers versatility to your wardrobe and can be purchased from an array of retailers in almost any color or pattern. I personally love the cozy texture of the Teddy Coat and the sophisticated silhouette of the Dad Coat. The Wrap Coat can pull together an outfit as you head out the door. The Puffer Coat is a must have for the freezing temps that winter will bring to New England. This particular Puffer is in a very trendy Fall color that works as a great neutral in your wardrobe!

Tasseled Triangle Scarf

A&F Super Soft Fringe Scarf

Scarves:

A great scarf can be so versatile in your wardrobe. I love to pair a scarf with my outfit and make it a part of my look. It’s an easy and cozy accessories that that can pair easily with the most casual to the most dressy of outfits. With that said, scarves are functional as well as stylish. Finding the perfect pattern, color, texture that works with your wardrobe is key!

Knit Mittens from New England Knit Co. (Etsy)

Cole Haan GrandSeries Leather Glove

Gloves/Mittens:

As temps drop, it becomes necessary to protect skin exposure. Cold weather brings dry skin and the first place I notice it is my hands. For this reason I make sure I have multiple pairs of gloves and mittens in my closet. I have friends who misplace sunglasses all the time… for me, it’s mittens & gloves. Seeing as I know this about myself, I try to stock up when I can and not spend too much on any one pair. If you’re more responsible with your accessories, feel free to splurge on an investment pair that will you keep your hands warm & cozy!

I have also found that Etsy is a great place to find accessories. I have been buying most of my masks from Esty this year. I think it’s a great way to support small businesses and find unique styles.

Happy Shopping All!