Welcome to our newest series. In “Friday Favorites,” our team will share a handful of favorite items. These can range from clothes to beauty products to recipes to books and anything in between.
Amy’s tried and true holiday favorites bring some peace to her day during the hustle and bustle of the season, and their prices will not break the bank. She hopes they bring you some seasonal joy as well!
BRIGHT LEMON SNOWDROP
Every year I buy the seasonal Winter Candy Apple from Bath & Body Works, but I’ve been on the hunt for a new scent. The first time I smoothed this on, my youngest said, “Smell Mommy! I am sitting by her tonight”.
Mission accomplished.
Starbucks Dirty Chai
I am typically a fan of the mom & pop coffee shops. They have a home style feel that I love. But I’ve yet to meet a Starbucks Dirty Chai Tea Latte that I didn’t enjoy. You won’t find it on the menu. Trust me – I’ve tried!
The best part of this drink is the taste. It tastes like a gingerbread house! And unlike their seasonal drinks, you can order it all year long. Try it sometime – it may end up as one of your holiday favorites too!
Whole Blends Ginger Recovery
Shampoo & Conditioner
Are you noticing a theme? I promise I am not a ginger addict. My hair is on the dry side, more so as I have aged. This shampoo and conditioner is cost-effective and at nearly every corner market. Again, it smells like gingerbread! But more importantly, my dry hair drinks these oils right up. Goodbye dry hair, hello silky, smooth holiday locks!
Mini Photo Sessions
I don’t have a link for you with this one, but trust me. Get in those extra snuggles with your kids this holiday season by doing a mini photo session- with a friend, with a stranger, with anyone. Just give it a go!
Take a chance on someone new. Our wedding photographs were done by one of my husband’s high school students and his girlfriend. Initially, I was terrified at the thought. They turned out absolutely lovely, and we gifted them a hundred dollars. Who gets wedding photos done that cheap? Many photographers and friends will do these mini sessions last minute. It’s a very cost-effective way to get that last minute photo you’ll need for mailers, and you can support small business during the holiday season.
Visit a Theme Park
I know this seams like the craziest thing to do in the midst of such a busy season, but it has proven to be a family favorite. No matter where we live, we take advantage of holiday themed parks. They are faithfully decked out in festive decor. In San Antonio, we visit Sea World through their annual Waves of Honor Program. It’s much slower during the winter months because most families want to cool down in the heat of the summer. The same can be true of your local zoo. Cooler temperatures often equals smaller crowds and the animals seem a bit less inhibited by smaller crowds too. Take advantage of it and start a new tradition!
No matter what you decide, slow down. Enjoy the season and maybe even indulge in a little holiday surprise!
