Can you believe I have been posting my Christmas list on this blog for 9 years? NINE. If you need a laugh, go take a gander at my 2013 list where I include a statement necklace from Forever 21, a DVD, AND a Lord of the Rings phone case. No words are needed. Millennial me has slayed and will continue to slay.
But now. Now I slay in a slightly different way. With outfits purchased at the bins, vibrating heating pads (yes, from Walgreens), and crinkled up packets of Liquid IV found at the bottom of my purse.
And so, here is a list of material possessions that I believe will make my life better. Whether or not they actually will is a story for another day.
Found this ring via TokTok (where else?) and it was love at first sight. Ignore the pun. It is simple, feminine, and I do not really own any rings other than my engagement/wedding band.
I have been wanted a perfume that makes me smell like a snack, lol. Kinda like a more intense version of the Brazilian Crush no.71. This was created for Salt & Straw and as a Portlandian, I feel it is my duty to own it!
It should be tradition that I get a new EllandEmm sweatshirt every year. They are high-quality, SO fun, and slightly oversized. I LOVE this one, “strawberry” en francais – j’adore!
I am all about the gel polish these days. I do it myself at home with my Le Mini Macaron macaron-shaped curing lamp! I need to add this bubblegum color to my collection.
I think this might be a Hailey Bieber product which means I will probably never get my hands on it. But I have heard amazing things and it is an Allure Beauty Award winner. I really want the salted caramel flavor but would settle for watermelon.
And while 2021 was definitely better than the dumpster fire that was 2020, I still feel like there is room for improvement. Especially for me. Namely –
Achieving decent hair volume (velcro rollers turned out to be a cardinal mistake, thanks TikTok!)
Addressing my frown and forehead lines (is this the year I try Botox? thoughts are welcomed)
Finding the perfect pair of baggy jeans appropriate for someone in their *cough* late 30’s *cough*
Doing anything related to working out/eating less Cheez Its and Little Debbies
Striving for better work-life balance
Focusing more on having fun and letting go
Ok that got semi-serious kinda fast. And I do not believe in setting typical new years resolutions for myself when I already have enough on my plate. But I do think that at least pondering ones upcoming personal goals is not a bad exercise right?
This New Year’s I will be going to dinner with my best friends and also celebrating my birthday. Here are the necessary components to making this occasion a smashing success (other than childcare, obvs).
First, a chill-pill. Lately I have really gotten into a few CBD products, especially these gummies from Keoni.
I have been taking one gummy after work, or anytime I feel like I could use some extra anxiety reduction. At first I was not sure if I felt anything at all, but after a few days the first thing I noticed was much less pain in my back. Typically after a long day of sitting at my desk, my back is super sore, but these have definitely been helping. I also just feel a nice “chill” feeling (not “high” in the least) throughout my whole body. You can read more about these gummies on their website, and they are also available on Amazon.
Next – a killer shower. In the Stars is literally my FAVORITE scent from Bath & Body Works and this moisturizing body wash does not disappoint!
It is thick, rich and leaves the skin delightfully scented. It also works amazingly as a shave cream.
Next it is best to do a sheet mask – I swear these things make all the difference in the world! They make makeup go on smoother, they plump the face – they do it all. Here are two I am super excited to try out from Soo’AE.
The Sweet Pink Bubble Mask (only $2.25!) helps remove impurities as it bubbles up to help soften and replenish the skin. This Panda Eye Brightening Mask (only $3!) targets dark circles and works to de-puff and revitalize the eye area. YES PLEASE!
One of my favorite beauty hacks of all time, are these amazing eye drops from Rohto. They take ALL the red out of the eyes and make the whites appear sparkling. I do not put these drops in very often (only for special occasions) and definitely talk to your doctor if you wear contact or have sensitive eyes.
A great bottle of champs/bubbly wine is a MUST when primping for NYE. Recently I tried this stunning bottle of Stella Rose Asti (I mean, how festive right?!) and deemed it the perfect “getting ready” drink. This Italian sparkling wine is semi-sweet, fruity, gluten-free, low-cal and low-alcohol. How amazing is that?!
When you order from Stella Rosa Wines, your bottles are shipped very securely ensuring they arrive in perfect condition.
Setting the “getting ready” vibe is key – and if you know me, you know I LOVE a candle. Right now, I am obsessed with this one from Broken Top Candle Co. This candle smells absolutely divine, with notes of jasmine, sweet cream, and driftwood. The throw is out of this world and easy fills a large room without being overkill. I have loved melting this candle as a welcome reprieve from all the holiday scents that are popular this time of year. It is fresh, warm and very soothing. Check out all the scent choices from Broken Top Candle Co. – there are so many good ones to choose from!
After the mood is right, it is time for makeup of course. An amazing lipstick is obviously a must. This bright pink shade in Hollyweird, by Urban Decay is really gorgeous.
Lastly, a fun outfit is a must! I like to opt for something cute but not super uncomfortable. This year, I happened upon a pair of faux leather joggers at – yes, Walmart. I paired it with a sparkly red tank (very Wet Seal circa 2004) and have myself an outfit for about $50!
And lastly, makeup removal and skin care! After a long night out, washing my face is the last thing on my mind. That is why I have been loving this convenient cleansing glove from Prato Botanico. Double-sided and made of bamboo, this ultra-plush glove is perfect for getting deep into pores to quickly remove stubborn makeup. It is super soft and really great for sensitive skin. I am never going back to just using my bare hands to wash my face!
And speaking of Prato Botanico, I have just started using their smoothing day cream and am beyond impressed. The ingredients are out of this world (hello hyaluronic acid, aloe, almond oil and grape seed oil!) and it is lightweight, yet SUPER hydrating and nourishing. I am totally in love so far!
I hope each and every one of you enjoy your New Year’s. No matter if you are sitting on your couch watching the SATC re-boot and eating leftover Christmas cookies, or attending a fabulous party. I love you all, see you in 2022!
*Some of the items above were sent to me complimentary for review. All opinions are my own.
I have been posting these puppies since 2013 and looking back, they have all followed the same basic formula. A shoe, a jean, usually a bag, fragrance and/or beauty item. Maybe a lord of the rings phone case or STATEMENT NECKLACE (click here to see a few other doozies). Remember the statement necklace? Man, I loved ’em. I have even kept a few in hopes that one day they will make a comeback. I know it’s a long shot, but – bucket hats? Jncojeans? What goes around comes back around in the world of fashion, amiright?!
This year’s theme is pretty paired down and includes some of the typical items we have all come to expect from yours truly. But there are also one or two fun things poking about – let’s get to it!
I discovered the Margot Elena Box on YouTube and instantly knew I’d love to try one after seeing all the amazing brands inside. You can expect to find items from Lollia, TokyoMilk and Library of Flowers in this box, with a combined price of up to $200. I feel like this would be such a fun thing to look forward to!
If you watch Mikayla Nogueira on TikTok, you understand why I want the Glow Recipe Niacinamide Drops. They supposedly make the skin truly glow and also provide treatment for dark spots, two things I am always after. Plus it doesn’t hurt that the packaging is adorably cute.
These corduroy overalls from Aerie are just so friggen’ cute. If you are an 80’s kid, you know the nostalgia of corduroy and the fact that they’re an overall makes these just irresistible to me.
The Clinique Happy Cookies & Kisses Perfume is just that – happiness in a bottle. If you know me well, you know that smells are, like, VERY important to me. I love a candle, a wax melt, perfume, body spray, you name it. This fragrance really does smell like cookies and therefore, I need to own it.
I want these Universal Thread Sneakers from Target simply to fill a gap in my wardrobe. With the roll-out of the wider leg, 90’s jean one also own a chunkier sneaker for accompaniment. I determined that I was not ready to fork over the $100+ for Air Force 1’s, and these fun sneakers from Target totally fit the bill.
A pair of huggie earrings such as these have also made the list, due to their rampant cuteness. I find the huggie style to be both super flattering, but also comfortable. Which essentially, defines my style as a whole.
The Madewell Transport Rucksack has been on my list for YEARS now. I think it started when I saw Home Alone 2 for the first time and watched Kevin McAllister run around New York City with his dad’s classy backpack.
Note the leather touches
And lastly, but certainly not least – this vintage-style keychain from Amazon. It’s adorable, and fun, and makes me feel like I live in a little flat on Rue Cler!
And that about does it folks! What is on YOUR list this year?
Shipping delays, supply chain shortages, Kyle Rittenhouse’s “crying” face? It’s enough to suck the holiday cheer right outta the room am I right? Well fear not, my lovely readers! For today I bring you a few odds and ends truly worthy of the season. Let’s get started.
Why do products from Outlaw Soaps make such great gifts? Could it be the catchy names and funny packaging? The amazing smells? Or maybe the fact that each package always comes with STICKERS?!
Whatever the reason, Outlaw Soap has you covered. Their products are all-natural, cruelty-free and use sustainable and eco-friendly ingredients and packaging.
This vitamin B3 gel moisturizer makes a perfect holiday gift due to the cold weather and it’s universally favorable formula. This stuff is lightweight, good for sensitive skin, vegan, fragrance-free and did I mention it feels amazing on the skin? It truly lives up to it’s name with addition of hyaluronic acid, niacinimide, and oats.
This wouldn’t be a true gift guide if I did not include one of my all-time favorite lip balms! EcoLips products are certified organic, gluten-free, and cruelty free. The packaging for this candy cane lip balm is actually made of plants and is 100% plastic-free! How amazing is that? Plus, the sweet peppermint vanilla flavor is perfection. I will be throwing these in everyone’s stockings this year.
This body cream is heaven. Anytime I see the word “whipped” in a body product, I know I am game to try it out. This stuff is lightweight, yet super moisturizing and does not leave behind a greasy finish. The scent is amazing and it has a lovely sensation when applying.
Guys. These customizable watercolor pieces from Mollygram are just too perfect. The above pictured name print for my daughter was done in the “woodland” theme, but she has several to choose from. I might need to order the Garden Party Alphabet print next!
I would also like to mention that these prints come pre-framed, are packaged very securely, and come with pre-installed hanging hardware.
Yes I posed in my sweats, in the kitchen, with my Dyson stick vaccum. And listen, I know these are expensive. But hand to God, I use this thing at least once or twice a day. It is BY FAR the best money we’ve ever spent. It is lightweight, has great suction and does not have a CORD! Would make the greatest gift for LITERALLY anyone. Definitely get the version with all of the attachments, because I have used every single one. I would kiss the inventor of this vacuum if I could, it is that good.
Again we have an expensive item that is worth every single penny. The only loophole to that cost being that from time to time, they do sell these at Nordstrom Rack for a significantly reduced price. This is BY FAR the softest, most luxurious material I have ever felt and when I picture heaven, I picture Barefoot Dreams. The perfect gift for someone who appreciates luxury!
We got one of these when Clara was younger, for those late night-time nursing sessions. It is so perfect, providing just enough light so you’re not banging around in the dark. The light is totally customizable – it can be brightened or darkened or made warm or cool toned. Plus, it is controlled by touch! It comes with a little charging station and lasts a very long time between charges (7+ hours or so). This also makes a great gift for anyone who gets up frequently in the night for any reason. The low light and portability makes it so practical.
These dainty, yet strong and durable nameplate necklaces are the perfect gift! Sincerely Silver offers lots of customizable options in sterling silver, gold and rose gold and the quality is wonderful. My favorite of the bunch has to be this rose gold “Natalie” necklace which is subtle and would look so cute layered!
I have a pair of the original black Nike Blazers and they are easily my favorite sneaker. Comfy, stylish and they go with everything! This version is even cuter with a slight platform. These also come in several color variations.
I MEAN. These colors? Rarely do I recommend items that can be purchased at Dicks or REI – but this jacket is an exception. The fleece is super soft and the relaxed fit means you can easily layer. Such a great gift for anyone in the PNW.
The Heirloom video books are basically the perfect gift for our parents, grandparents or anyone who might enjoy the nostalgia of a photo album, but integrated with video. Heirloom makes it super easy to purchase, create and send a book without leaving your computer.
Here’s how the box will look when it gets shipped out to your loved one:
Click here to learn more about these awesome and unique video books.
Perfect for anyone with an affinity for naps, a frequent flier, or the wrinkle-conscious – this sleep mask has customizable memory foam cups that feel like little angel hugs. The design means no pressure on your eyes and a total leak-free seal, keeping things totally blacked out.
I also love that come in a little silk bag, perfect for throwing in a suitcase.
A perfect gift for anyone over the age of 30 and/or works from home! I have a few different CBD topicals and this one is among my favorites. I especially love the addition of menthol. I tend to wake up with neck and upper back pain at least once a month and I love reaching for this to provide relief. I also love that it is roll-on and I don’t have to get up to wash my hands after using it.
*Some of the items above were sent to me complimentary for review. All opinions are my own.
Let us celebrate and buy stuff! But Moms are just SO worth it, aren’t they? And when I say “moms” I mean allllll the moms. We’ve got hot-mess moms, competitive moms, helicopters, granolas. We all know a few of each. But ALSO – we have the step-moms, foster moms, fur-moms, non-binary moms, moms who have lost, mother earth. There are so many moms and all are equally important!
Here are some gift ideas for that special mom, or mother figure in your life.
Zeep Bath
Ok guys, I may have found my new Lush. Zeep Bath is a small, family-owned business located in Wichita, Kansas. I found out about them on Instagram and was immediately drawn in by the cuteness of the products and just overall aesthetic. I meannnn….
They carry both bath & body products and home fragrance (which I have yet to try) in absolutely scrumptious scents. David ordered me their Sugar Whip (whipped soap + sugar scrub) a couple weeks ago for our anniversary and GUYS, I am hooked.
Their Malibu Barbie scent is described as “exotic island coconut, juicy white pineapple, and sexy sweet pink sugar”. After using it one time, David said I smelled like a “Hawaiian tropic girl” (ala Dumb and Dumber, I am guessing) and the scent lingered for hours. I am now ordering the body spray and whipped soap in Malibu Barbie because I want to smell like this 24/7. It shall be my new signature scent!
Zeep also has a referral program, which I happily joined. Use this link for $5 off any purchase of $25 or more!
*Also, this company did not send me anything, nor is this sponsored.
Bunnies by the Bay
Bunnies by the Bay is a Washington-based company that sells some of the sweetest, most high-quality stuffies, lovies and baby gifts you will find. The best part is that several of their stuffies come with a backstory! If you or your kiddos love Peter Rabbit, you will absolutely love Bunnies by the Bay! I was immediately drawn to one of their signature bunnies, Blossom of Cricket Island and knew Clara would love it.
I am getting side-tracked, this is a MOTHER’S DAY gift guide!
No detail is overlooked when it comes to their adorable packaging. Clara and I were squealing at how cute everything came. And the look on her face when she pulled out little Blossom, just says it all!
But these mommy and me face masks?! I DIE.
Here is E, modeling the kid mask:
And yours truly in the adult version:
For get $10 your first purchase at Bunnies by the Bay, click here!
Bombay Hair Curling Wand
Perfect for the lady who desperately needs to upgrade her hair-tools game, look no further than Bombay Hair. I have never invested in nice hair tools, and have been using the same teeny tiny Conair curling wand for years now.
This extended wand is 100% tourmaline and features a cool tip which helps with styling burns. You also get a little stand and heat protectant glove.
The best part about this curling wand? It heats up in literally 10 SECONDS! You can select an exact temperature and the LCD screen turns from blue to green when it is ready to go.
Check out these amazing curls, that seriously last ALL DAY.
And here is a video of me using the curling wand! Be warned, I am verrrry professional at this:
Dossier Fragrances
YOU GUYS. This company basically makes designed imposter (remember those millenials?!) fragrances, but like bougie. I discovered them on Instagram after trying to find a knock-off of my most coveted perfume of all time, Le Labo Rose 31. I have wanted this perfume for probably 10 years and realized I needed to somehow make it a reality.
They also have versions of everything from Le Labo, to Jo Malone, to Chanel, YSL and Tom Ford. And they only cost $29 or $39!
The glass bottle is actually quite weighty and feels expensive. But the scent?! I was BLOWN away! This smells exactly like Rose 31…it is almost uncanny. I do not think the lasting power is quite as good as the Le Labo version but for $39 I will take it!
I have been dousing myself in this everyday and could not be happier.
Elise Design Company
Christa was kind enough to send me a few pairs of the gorgeous and unique Belle Stud handmade earrings to try and I am absolutely gaga for these.
These earrings are made of acrylic, are lightweight and make a statement while still being dainty. Also, they’re only $15 and they have free shipping!
I could not get E to take off the rose gold version, she just adores them.
I die for these black and gold ones! And ignore my dark spots…they’re a work in progress.
So impressed with the quality of these earrings from this small business. Totally want to get the initial necklace next, which would also make an amazing mother’s day gift!
The Great Oregon Wine Company
Doesn’t wine always make the easiest and best gift? I recently tried this Pinot Gris from Great Oregon Wine Company and it was love at first sip.
I am no wino, but this went down very nicely and was super bright and refreshing. And also – May is Oregon Wine Month! You can get $10 flat-rate shipping on 4 bottles or more right now! Go get you some.
Crocs
Yes, I am including Crocs. Mainly because I actually want some for Mother’s Day. They are ugly, yes. But in a cute way. I just feel like by me not owning Crocs, I am doing myself a disservice. PLUS, I actually think they are kinda cool right now. As in, I see cool people wearing them from time to time.
You can get them on Amazon Prime and they will be here by tomorrow. What’s not to love?
And that will conclude my list for now friends. Have a fabulous mother’s day!
I feel like this is the celebration 2021 deserves.
And honestly, it’s the Peacock app for me.
Yes, The Office moved to Peacock. And for us anxious people who despise change (especially when it comes to our #1 comfort show) liked Jim, Michael and Angela right where they belonged, on Netflix. The move to Peacock means we must now download a new app? Pay more for the no-ad versions? Dwight, you ignorant slut!
But it’s not just The Office. It is of course, the senselessness that went down at the capitol building too. And the turmoil that has ensued since. It is also my grow-out. The rain. The looming 89273 days of rain ahead. And the 40 more after that. My mom-guilt. The fact that my twice weekly trips to Goodwill are all I have somedays. Or at least, that’s the way it can feel.
But then I realize that my gorgeous husband downloaded the Peacock app for me. And maybe my grow out is a look. And oh! Season 13 of RuPaul’s Drag Race just started! And there is a stash of E’s leftover Halloween candy in the way back of the junk drawer. And really, could Clara be sweeter?? See, things are ok.
And before we move allll the way into this new year, let’s review the holidays. Because while they were covidy and weird, they were awesome.
For starters, I tried these KISS Jelly Fantasy Nails on my birthday and they stayed on for like 10 days!
We spent Christmas Eve and Christmas Day here in Portland. A pretty big change from years prior, but I have to say – it was SO nice being home. It was David and I’s first time doing the Santa thing and we had so much fun.
I received the below sweatshirt which is just *chef’s kiss*.
Then we went to the Tri-Cities to see my family!
We discovered Clara’s affinity for a pepperoni stick.
And then it was her birthday party! Mickey Mouse theme of course.
Check out my visor! An antique find from Auntie Amy & Shannon.
I did my first high pony in her hair and omg I die.
So far our new year has been spent hanging up our amazing holiday gifts:
This year on the birthday of our sweet Clara Jane, I decided my feelings would be best expressed in a song, from the motion picture “Fiddler on the Roof”.
thenataliediaries.com 