gift ideas, jewelry

Personalized Gifts for the Women You Love {Halloween Discount Code}

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My goal in life is to find some of the best gifts that I can. It’s my love language. The smile on someones’ face gives me so much joy and if it’s a secret gift that’s even better.  And while the idea of personalized jewelry might seem weird and outdated at first, I haven’t gotten this many compliments on jewelry since I got my mini-states necklace.  Who knew I really missed out on the whole Carrie Bradshaw name necklace trend. I didn’t realize how much I LOVED it!

 

I was really excited to partner with JesseMade Jewelry to check out some great personalized jewelry options for Christmas gifts. What important for me to share is affordability and quality. Clearly when we think of affordability, quality isn’t the first thing that jumps to our mind. I didn’t know what to expect and I can tell you I was pleasantly surprised. Before I share anything with you I want to make sure that I establish the quality, and lucky for you your girl here has ridiculously sensitive skin. I’ve been wearing the necklace to sleep in and to shower in and haven’t had any issues. Didn’t try the pool or the beach yet, but I don’t generally like to wear any of the jewelry during any of those things activities.

Time to share 

 

 

One of the things that I loved about the bracelet is how easy it was to get on and off. The unique clasp really made it simple and I didn’t have to struggle to get it on. And the unique Oval shape of the bracelet makes it so the bracelet sits so nicely and doesn’t constantly flip around on your wrist. Very cool!

 

These are sweet gifts from kiddos to their mamas, boyfriends to their girlfriends, and I’ve even considered these as gifts to my mom and sister for Christmas. You can get rings, anklets, and all sorts of bracelets and necklaces that fit your unique style. Their name necklaces come in several different fonts and you can choose between silver, gold, or rose gold coloring. There truly is something for everyone!

As a side note, they also sometimes have super cute home decor items and I may or may not have purchased some Halloween stuff! I can’t help it! Look how cute this is!! All their Halloween stuff is on sale and the extra discount code applies if you want to purchase some jewelry as well! Its an excellent deal, so jump on over to JesseMade and snag your stuff today!

jessemade5

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Christmas, gift ideas

5 Unique Gift Ideas for Christmas

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  1. Magazine subscription – I love this one and have used it for my kids before. Its super fun and is like a present every month! I’ve even given a subscription to my mom as a gift before. Did you know that Amazon has discounted magaizine subscription links? You can also get Kindle versions of the magazines as well. I’ve linked some of my favorites below:

2. Subscription boxes with activities – These are super fun, because like activities, it is something exciting every                                  month! Whether you have a little baker, an artist or a scientist, subscription boxes are a great way to keep your kids                            learning for fun!

3. Activities – This is a fun one too, and one we have used before to gift our children special activies like Parkour classes                       for our oldest, and archery for our daughter. Find something they need for that class and use that as an opportunity to                         a) buy it and gift it (I mean, lets face it, you have to buy it anyway. Make it feel more exciting by wrapping it in a box),                           and b) a fun way to let them know they get to do said activity!

                     Ideas – soccer ball and shin guards for soccer classes, ballet bag for ballet                                     classes, special leotard for gymnastics, bow and arrow for archery classes.

4. Keep It Simple – Another way to keep it simple and keep yourself focused is something my mom has done for years.                          Something you want, something you need, something to wear and something to read. Keeps you focused and doesn’t                        let you get out of hand. Make it a theme!! If you have a kind into Harry Potter, add the illustrated version to your                                    bookshelf this Christmas and include these Harry Potter socks, Harry Potter Lego set and find something in the need                         category that might be themed like school supplies, or something like that!

5. A Trip – Sometimes an event or a trip during Christmas, or a gift right after Christmas is a perfect opportunity to teach                         kids about saving, and how to make an exchange. We aren’t going to spend a bunch of money on toys are stuff like                             that. Instead, we are going to spend money on this amazing trip. I have a friend who is going on a Disney Cruise for                            Christmas. Next year I hope to be in Europe right before Christmas so that will be a part of our gift.

Christmas can be such a great time, but can easily fall into being all about THINGS! We have such an amazing opportunity to bring more to our children, and show them how things don’t always have to be the same. Sometimes its about toys and silly things, because there’s a lot of Christmas magic in that. But, sometimes, its about memories and the experiences.

Do you give unique or interesting gifts at Christmas? I’d love to hear about them!

 

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Father's Day, gift ideas, Uncategorized

8 Last Minute Super Cool Father’s Day Gifts

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Father’s Day is fast approaching, and while some people have probably already narrowed down their gifts for the dads in their life, some of us are still searching. Gift giving is one of my top love languages. If you are a person in my life you have probably received a random gift, card, coffee or even your favorite soda. The challenge of finding a gift that is perfect for the person and succeeding is a driver, but also just seeing that person smile makes me so happy! My favorite thing to do is the anonymous gift, but that is a different post for a different time. Today, the topic at hand is dads! Aside from the standard Tie, sometimes buying for a guy can prove difficult, especially if they don’t have a specific hobby that is easy to buy for. The other issue I often face is that if my husband or dad want something they usually get it for themselves. My husband, in particular, doesn’t really like a lot of “Stuff” so it can pose a problem. So I decided to put together a list of useful, cool and unique items for the Father in your life.

  1. A Super Cool Activity! – Maybe getting an actual thing doesn’t work for you this year. He’s maxed out on ties, doesn’t want a book and you have absolutely no idea what else to get him. Think about a unique and fun activity in your city. Whiskey or beer tasting for those that like to imbibe. Take the kids, or family, out for a nice lunch and then grab a babysitter to surprise him with an activity. Is there a City scavenger hunt, ghost tour or museum that they like. Here in DC many of the museums have really cool activities, check those out and maybe one of those might fit the bill. If they like music, look for a concert. Think outside the box and take a pass on adding something else to your home that might end up collecting dust and get out and do something instead!
  2. City Maps Gifts from WellTold – these are my newest obsession! I love things that tell a story of your life, whether that be wall art, my new favorite Candles from Homesick or these amazing city map bar and beer glasses. They are such a unique and interesting gift that becomes a conversation starter in your home or a reminder of a special event or time in your life.  They have cities to choose from and state flasks as well.
  3. Rite in the Rain – I’ve included these on a gift list before, and I’m including them again because not only are they practical but they are pretty cool. If you have a spouse that works in the military, police, construction or even a spouse that loves the outdoors these are a must-have! From notebooks, paper pads to pocket calendars you can find something that your Dad or Husband will love! Mine has been using these products for at least fifteen years and swears by them.
  4. Sword & Plough – I’ve been lucky enough in my life to meet some pretty awesome people, and the ladies behind Sword & Plough are high up there on the list. Founding a company that reuses military products to make something new is pretty awesome. Giving back to Veterans and military families makes it even better. Founded by sisters, one of which is a Veteran herself, Sword & Plough offers all sorts of gifts for just about anyone! So keep this link for Mother’s Day, birthdays and Christmas! Awesome gifts for dudes include military cufflinks, toiletries bag, messenger and backpacks, card holders, mini wallets and belts. This is a purchase they will not only hopefully love, but you can also love the fact that you are purchasing something that will then help S&P (a certified B Corp) give back to those that serve our country. How can you not love that!
  5. DIFF Sunglasses – Speaking of giving back, I’m including DIFF on this list not necessarily because giving sunglasses is that unique, but because DIFF is a really amazing company that gives back to the community! Any way to combine gift giving with making a difference is high on my list. I love the DIFF company, what they stand for and their sunglasses and blue-light blocking glasses as well. Knowing that their gift is also giving back is just another gift for the person receiving them.
  6. Fisher Space Pen – This has been a go-to gift for many of the men in my life. This is the perfect gift because there are so many options in colors, styles, and you can even get them engraved. One of the gifts I gave my husband for a military accomplishment was a multi-purpose pen that had blue and red ink, a pencil and a laser pointer. I engraved it with his name and the accomplishment. If you have never heard of the Space Pen the basic gist of it is that it can work in the freezing cold, upside down and even in space! I love using mine to do my crosswords in bed like a real nerd!
  7. Fancy Shaving Stuff – Fancy shaving items are definitely a thing. Curated collections of beard oils and balms, as well as throwback shaving kits with brushes and one-blade razors. Some of my favorites include Beard Oil or Balm from Sugar + Spruce and shaving kit from Manready Mercantile in Houston, Texas. Manready also has a HUGE assortment of unique men’s gifts like whiskey flavored toothpicks and handmade leather products. The Art of Shaving has different scents and kits for not just shaving, but skin care as well. Just because they are men doesn’t mean they shouldn’t spend some time taking care of that skin.
  8. A Subscription Box – Subscriptions boxes are just for girls, although I will say I’m a sucker for a good subscription box. Having items delivered right to my door makes me so happy! There are several subscription box ideas for dads including Bump Box: The Dad Box, Stitch Fix, and Trunk Club. Boxes like Sprezza, deliver men’s accessories like tie tacks, watches, handkerchiefs, and socks – curated especially for them – delivered each month. For more ideas check out this list on Esquire!

Do you have a unique gift idea for the man in your life?

Leave a comment or join in the conversation on social media

 

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children, gift ideas, NatGeo Kids, National Geographic

On a Mission with National Geographic Kids

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I’ve talked about National Geographic Kids before and I’m so excited to share the latest from them! The National Geographic Kids Pleybox subscription is the perfect gift for your curious little ones. Winner of Best Green Toy and Brainchild Toys, and parent approved, send your kids on a mission to discover the Great Barrier Reef, the Serengheti, the Artic or the Amazon. Learn about each areas endangered species and become an Expert after you complete your mission.

My kids are obsessed with National Geographic Kids books. We’ve amassed quite the collection in our home. Partly due to the awesome gig of being a blogger’s kid; but most of the time NGKids books are part of their library checkouts, or requested as a gift. So I knew right away these little mission suitcases would be a huge hit for us. In the boxes we got one of the famed NGKids books, a super cool shirt with corresponding animal, stick sheet, collector cards, and in the Serengeti one my daughter got a little bracelet and two mini animal figurines.

 

 

At the end of your “mission” to learn as much as you can about the area (and the animals) your box is from you get your Achievement Certificate! I make mine earn it by teaching me all about what they learned. It is a great interactive tool for the whole family to use.

Lastly you are able to access a fun, interactive online game, where you can learn EVEN more about the area and its wildlife! After that…your mission is complete!! But the fun doesn’t have to end there. You can keep going back to revisit your mission with each box you get, combining your knowledge. These subscription boxes are only $17.99,  making a Pleybox Mission box a super cool and unique gift for a cool kid in your life. I know that I’m always looking for unique, non-toy, related gifts. NGKids Pleybox’s are definitely on my list of unique gift giving that both parents and kids will love!

Visit their website to find out more, and learn how to get your own mission box!

 

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gift ideas, mil-spouse, mom, mother, motherhood

8 Mother’s Day Gifts for the MilSpouse in Your Life

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Whether you are looking for a gift for your mom, wife, something you can hint to the hubby or even for one of your best friends, the idea of supporting military spouse and/or veteran businesses while I’m gift giving makes me so happy! We have so many creative military spouses and veterans in our space that we can support. The list is probably extensive, but these are some of my favorites! Share yours in the comments below!

Designs by Katie Leigh ~ I met Katie just recently and I was so excited because this girls knows how to make jewelry! It’s affordable, well made and her customer service is stellar. If you have an questions or an issue she’s there and will do her best to answer or fix. You have probably seen her stuff all over my feed since I am a brand ambassador for her, but I can’t go anywhere in her stuff without someone commenting on it. Enter “Rheanna” on your checkout for a little surprise

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Sword and Plough –  I had the extreme pleasure of meeting the ladies behind this brand last year. Their motivation and company in general is so inspiring and I think that what they are doing is amazing. They have a commitment to donating a portion of their profits to support service members and their families through various organizations. They employ military veterans and spouses in every stage of their design and manufacturing. S&P uses recycled materials and packaging and have a goal to maintain a low carbon footprint, as well as manufacturing their bags in the good ‘ole USA!

This is the bag currently on my wish list!

Hope Designs Ltd – Lauren from HDL combines two of my favorite things jewelry and vintage brooches. You guys, seriously this stuff is so beautiful. I’ve been a brooch fan for a long time. Well before I had kids I would ask for brooches and wear them on my wool jackets in the winter time. Even now you will find a brooch on my nicer jackets. Its my thing and I love it. But Hope Designs is much more than just your grandma’s brooches. You can find earrings, bracelets and even men’s accessories, all celebrating our military lives of then and now. The items below are some of my favorite.

 

MasonChix – founded by a military spouse and special needs mom, purchasing from MasonChix will get you two things. First, it will get you an amazingly comfy and cute shirt (I have several), and second, you will be contributing to the purchase of special needs swings for playgrounds! You guys, if that doesn’t make you feel good about your purchase I’m not sure what will!

THEY ARE IN THE MIDDLE OF A HUGE SALE RIGHT NOW, TO GET READY FOR SPRING DESIGNS! SO HURRY AND SNAG A DEAL!!!

Daisy Fae Designs –  I can’t remember where I first stumbled upon this shop. On one of my many late night Etsy rabbit holes most likely. But the bright colors and fun designs drew me in to this wonderful lady her company. I feel like the picture will say it all! You can find all sorts of fun designs including the adorable prickly pear and lemon prints in her Desert Collection! And don’t forget about the super adorable skinny scarf trend that is making a comeback! Adorable prints in that and traditional cowl scarf designs are available as well.

Bottle Breacher – One part self-defense, one part bottle opener? Put it on a keychain and color it pink?! I’m sold! I love my bottle breacher!! Plus, this isn’t just for mother’s day guys. Bookmark this one for promotion, retirement, birthday, wedding gifts, whatever! Full size bottle openers, Shirts, wine bottle openers, coolers. They’ve got it all.

Combat Flip Flops – Also someone I was so grateful to have spoken to and met last year was the founder of Combat Flip Flops. He and his wife are pretty amazing people, and the purpose of this company makes my heart melt. Buy any product and you are funding a day of education for an Afghan Woman. Buy any Peacemaker (Jewelry from their Peacemaker, be a better human line) and fund the clearance of 3sq meters of landmines. Buy a Perfect Circle (beautiful lapis lazuli bracelet – currently sold out) and employ American Gold Star families and Afghan war widows. Plus, their flip flops are just comfy…got mine in pink (are we surprised?) The ones pictured below are the ones I have. Super comfy and made with a combat boot outsole! Recycle and reuse my friends.

 

The Rosie Company – Founded by MilSpouses, The Rosie Company started out with these adorable planners – “The Rosie” and have branched out into so much more. They have apparel, accessories, cute pens and a ton more. I haven’t seen the planner up close and personal, but I have a lot of good things, especially for newer military spouses or new to paper planning. There are a ton of reviews out there for those interested in delving into the paper planner world (trust me, we know we are crazy). Check out all their products by clicking the link.

 

 

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