Posted in Holidays, Kids

Birthday Recap

Hello! Well, we’ve had a couple of twelve-year-olds in the house for a couple of days now, and not much has changed. When is it that they will start acting like they are 12? #askingforafriend

All kidding aside, they had a wonderful birthday full of fun with friends and lots of cake.

Here’s a recap of how we celebrated Hayden and Hadley turning the big 1-2!

On Friday, after school, I picked up a cookie cake for them from Great American Cookies. Their cookie cakes are the best and never disappoint.

Then, I picked the kids and a few of their friends up from school. We came home for a bit to wait for their other friends to arrive before heading to Sky Zone.

This was such an easy activity for them at this age, and a great way to burn some energy. We bought passes for them to jump for 1 and 1/2 hours which was the perfect amount of time.

While I’m sometimes sad at home quickly time seems to be flying by, I wasn’t sad about the fact that I got to just sit on the Sky Zone couch with Travis while the kids did their thing. I saw a few parents of little ones having to wear the orange Sky Zone socks and jump with their kids, and that’s a “no” for me at this point in my life 😉

Also, this age is so funny. These kids all pretty much know each other, but as soon as we arrived, the boys and girls split up. During the last thirty minutes or so, they started to all hang together. #tweenlife

After Sky Zone, we went to Grimaldis for pizza. This group of ten seemed to have so much fun. They talked, laughed, and acted silly. Hayden and Hadley opened their gifts while we waited on the pizza. Then, these kids crushed two huge pizzas!

Then, we sang Happy Birthday to them (actually, the entire restaurant ended up doing so), and they enjoyed the cookie cake.

Grimaldis is in a neat little shopping area, and even though it was 35 degrees outside, the kids wanted to go see the tree.

Of course, the girls couldn’t resist a good photo op…

or two…

before convincing the boys to join in for a group photo…

…or two!

(I really do love this group photo – great kids and a pretty back drop!)

Then, we divided and conquered with Travis taking the boys home while I dropped the girls off at their houses. We were home around 9:00, and it was a great evening filled with fun and friends!

November 20th:

The thing about having older kids whose birthday is on a Saturday is they sleep in which gave me a bit more time for set up. Travis went and got donuts while I put the finishing touches on their presents.

Then, it was time to celebrate them during breakfast.

They opened gifts and then went outside to see their birthday signs.

This sign gets me every time. This also means I’ve been a mom for 12 years, 144 months, and 4,382 days! Time is certainly flying by.

They obliged (barely) for the birthday balloon photo. They look so grown up!

Later in the evening, my brother and his family came over for cake! Cake with the cousins. What could be better?

One more “Happy Birthday to YOU!”

Then, they stayed for a bit to watch the MIZZOU game while Hayden, Travis, and cousin Wyatt went to Hayden’s basketball game. Hadley had a dear friend spend the night, so I took the girls to Target and then out for a quick dinner.

Mama was tired, and was counting the minutes until bedtime!

On Sunday, we met up with my brother-in-law’s family for hibachi. His son’s birthday was that day, so we had fun celebrating the cousins.

The kids had a great 24(+) hours filled with friends, fun and tons of cake! We’re certainly blessed that so many friends and family took the time to celebrate them with calls, texts, and attending their part(ies).

I have one more post this week, so I will see you back here tomorrow!

Posted in Meals and Recipes

Monday Meals: Turkey Rice Soup

Hello and Happy Monday! How was your weekend? We had a great but busy one mostly filled with celebrating Hayden and Hadley turning 12. More about that tomorrow!

Today, I’m sharing one of my favorite recipes: Turkey Rice Soup.

We’ve been making this for years. It’s actually a recipe that we got from my high school boyfriend’s dad way back in 1997! It’s the perfect way to use up some leftover turkey the day after Thanksgiving!

Ingredients:

  • 1 can cream of chicken soup
  • 1 can cream of celery soup
  • 1 can cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 can chicken broth
  • 4 cans of water
  • 1/2 an onion, chopped
  • 1-2 c. shredded carrots
  • 2 c. uncooked rice + a little bit more
  • leftover shredded turkey
  • Creole spice (I usually use the Tony Chachere brand)

Instructions:

  • Saute’ the chopped onions in some oil until soft.
  • Add in soups + cans of water and heat for a few minutes.
  • Add in the turkey and shredded carrots. Stir to combine.
  • Pour in 2 cups of rice, and I add in a little bit more rice.
  • Top the ingredients with Creole spice plus a bit more. Stir.
  • Cook for 20-30 minutes.
  • Enjoy!

We make this soup every year on the Friday after Thanksgiving. I also make it a few other times in the winter and use shredded chicken.

If you make this, tag me on Instagram!

I can’t tell you how much this day off is needed. I was a big slacker this weekend on household chores and errands.

I hope you have a great week.

Posted in Holidays, Kids

Friday Favorites {#91}: The Twins Turn Twelve

Hello and Happy Friday! How was your week? We had a good, but hectic one. The kids had their activities, but they also had quite a few school assignments to complete like a science project proposal and essay. We just had to use our evening time very wisely to meet these deadlines in between activities.

As always, I’m linking up with Andrea and Erika for this week’s Friday Favorites posts.

Well, this post is all about two of my favorites. Today, I’m celebrating them as they turn TWELVE tomorrow. Where has the time gone?

A little stroll down memory lane…

B A B I E S

Tiny but mighty…

March 2010
Summer 2010

O N E

First time at the beach…

T W O

Ready to rock their roles and flower girl and ring bearer…

T H R E E

One of my favorite photos ever…

F O U R

Very patriotic…

F I V E

Hayden has to live his life in the shadow of Hadley 😉

Ahh…toothless smiles. My fave.

S I X

Go CATS!

S E V E N

Sweetness at the beach.

E I G H T

Big kids! One of my most favorite Christmas gifts. This sweet photo.

N I N E

Snow bunnies.

T E N

Easter cuteness.

E L E V E N

Big kids ready to be baptized.

And tomorrow they turn…

T W E L V E !

Hayden…

I’m not sure if it’s the five inches you’ve grown this year or the fact that you now wear contacts, but you’ve grown into quite the young man this year.

I cherish the “love you” text messages.

You are a quiet kid with a kind heart. You’re loyal to the bone whether it’s cheering for UK or being a great friend.

Your determination, competitive spirit, and quiet leadership are qualities that I admire in you.

I pray that you know we’ll always be here for you, and that dad and I are your biggest fans.

This next year I know you’ll continue to grow, challenge yourself, and mature. Maybe you’ll figure out where to put those dirty clothes 😉

I hope you have the best year yet. Can’t wait to celebrate you!

xo xo,

Mom

Hadley…

You are blossoming into a young lady right before our very eyes. Your silly sense of humor and caring heart are such inspiring qualities.

You’ve made the transition to middle school seamlessly. It doesn’t surprise me that you’ve made friends while holding on to your elementary friendships as well.

It’s a joy to watch you dance, and your grace is inspiring.

You care for others and have an innate ability to know just the moment that I need a hug.

I pray that you know we’ll always be here for you, and that dad and I are your biggest fans.

This next year, I know you’ll continue to make friends, follow your heart, and have a positive attitude with everything that you do. Maybe you’ll figure out how to cut your morning routine time in half? Hayden would really appreciate it 😉

I hope you have the best year yet. Can’t wait to celebrate you!

xo xo,

Mom

In honor of Friday Favorites, here are…

12 of your favorites:

Hayden:

  • Favorite color: blue or purple
  • Favorite food: bacon burger
  • Favorite place to eat: Drakes
  • Favorite sport/hobby: basketball and cross country
  • Favorite TV show: Goldbergs
  • Favorite animal: dog (Homer)
  • Favorite drink: Dr. Pepper
  • Favorite holiday: Thanksgiving
  • Favorite sports team: Chiefs, Royals, Kentucky, Oregon, Dodgers
  • Favorite movie: The Outsiders or Happy Gilmore
  • Favorite class: PE and art
  • Favorite book: The Hatchet

Hadley:

  • Favorite color: light blue
  • Favorite food: pork loin and mashed potatoes
  • Favorite place to eat: Raising Canes
  • Favorite sport/hobby: track and dance
  • Favorite TV show: Fuller House
  • Favorite animal: monkey
  • Favorite drink: Dr. Pepper
  • Favorite holiday: Christmas
  • Favorite sports team: Chiefs and UK
  • Favorite movie: Home Alone
  • Favorite class: math
  • Favorite song: Love Story by Taylor Swift

I thought about asking them their favorite thing about each other, but I’m sure I’d be pressing my luck!

Favorite Mom Meme (quote):

Sigh. Babies don’t keep.

Previous Birthday Posts:

Weekly Recap:

I’ve had a few posts this week:

Thanks so much for reading. I hope you have a great weekend. We’ll be celebrating with a bunch of tweens! Wish us luck!

Posted in Holidays, Monthly Musings

Monthly Musings

Hello! How’s your week been? I’m so happy that it’s Thursday. We are so close to the weekend!

Since Thanksgiving is next Thursday, Patty and Holly are doing their Monthly Musings link up today, and I’m joining them!

This month’s topic is: Holiday Preview 2021

1. Share your favorite holiday traditions:

We have so many favorite traditions like:

Seeing Santa,

attending Christmas parties,

and baking cookies.

We also go to the Horse Park lights, shop for the Angel Tree, and I hold on to the time honored tradition of mothers making their kids dress up for Christmas cards.

2. Do you see any holiday lights? Driving tour, park, festival?

I’ve shared before that as a kid, most holidays seasons we drove the park lights. Once I moved to Lexington, Travis and I started that tradition as well by going to Southern Lights at the Kentucky Horse Park. The only year we’ve missed since 2004 is 2009 when we had two one month olds!

There’s also a house in Lexington that a must to drive by.

Then, last year we went to Mustard Seed Hill for the first time, and it was a fun experience.

3. Favorite holiday recipe?

We do lots of baking around the holidays, but Shay’s Peppermint Mocha Bundt Cake is my fave! I make for dessert for our Christmas dinner at home every year.

4. Must have holiday fashion staples?

I’m not much of a fashionista, but I love a plaid shirt!

2018

5. Any special or extra festive plans this year?

I don’t think we have anything extra planned. We are pretty good about traditions, but we’ll see what pops up in December.

6. Best holiday planning tip?

Make a list and check it twice! As far as gifts are concerned, I started keeping a note on my phone for gift ideas all year long. Also, last year was the first year that I shared an Amazon list with family for ideas for the kids. That worked out nicely because once a gift was purchased, it was taken off the list.

7. Favorite holiday movie?

I love watching Home Alone. I have on my list for us to watch the new Home Alone (Home Sweet Home Alone) at some point in December or even after the hustle and bustle of the holidays.

As a tradition, we always watch A Christmas Story on Christmas day. I can’t wait.

8. Die Hard…Christmas movie or not?

I’ve never seen it, so I have no clue! Randomly, when I was watch Love Hard last week, this was a topic in the movie!

9. Tree/decorations up before or after Thanksgiving?

I will let this recent picture speak for my answer!

Really though, last year was the first year I put up the pencil tree in November. This year, I put up two pencil trees, one in the sun room and one in the living room until we get our real tree after Thanksgiving.

I do try to decorate for Christmas the weekend before Thanksgiving because it takes so much effort. That being said, I’m not sure if I will meet that goal this year as this upcoming weekend is proving to be a busy one.

2020

10. Do you celebrate other holidays in December?

No, but my kids went to a pretty diverse elementary school, and during those years, their teachers would do units of study on other cultures and holidays. I always loved hearing my kids share what they learned during that time.

I love the Monthly Musing link up. I can’t wait to see how others answered too!

See you back here tomorrow for a very special Friday Favorites.

Posted in Holidays, This and That, Tuesday Talk

Tuesday Talk: This or That Thanksgiving

Shew! That title. Try saying it five times fast 😉

Happy Tuesday! Today, I’m linking up with Erika and Ashley for this month’s Tuesday Talk.

For Tuesday Talk, we can blog about any topic we choose, and today I’m tackling Thanksgiving with a fun This or That edition!

Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. There’s no stress of gift buying, and the food is the best! I found this graphic on Pinterest, and I’m excited to break down these choices. So, here we go!

  • Turkey or Ham: Turkey all the way. If ham is also being served, I will grab a slice, but the turkey is the Thanksgiving food for me.
  • Lunch or Dinner: Usually somewhere in between. My extended family usually eats around 3:00 or so. Last year, when it was just my brother’s family and mine, we ate later for dinner.
  • Stuffing or Dressing: I’m not really a fan of either, but last year, I made sausage dressing for the first time, and it was really good.
  • Dress Up or Dress Down: Usually we dress up, but it’s not anything too fancy. I ask Hayden to wear something besides Nike shorts, and Hadley will oblige with something besides a sweatshirt. When the kids were little, I definitely had them wear something festive when they’d let me.
2014
  • Mashed Potatoes or Sweet Potatoes: I’m definitely a mashed potatoes kind of girl. But…guess what?! I don’t like gravy.
  • Football or Movies: Parade?! First, I watch the parade in the morning and then football does tend to be on in the background the rest of the day.
  • Black Friday or Cyber Monday: Hands down, my answer would be Cyber Monday. I don’t think I’ve ever shopped on Black Friday, and I don’t think I ever will. I usually take the weekend after Thanksgiving to start making lists of what to buy, and then I do try to shop as many sales as possible on Cyber Monday.
  • Pumpkin Pie or Pecan Pie: Pumpkin pie is my fave.

How would you answer these? I will post the graphic in my Insta Stories, so if you share your answers, feel free to tag me!

Only a little over a week until turkey day!

Posted in Weekend Top 5

Weekend Top 5

Hello and Happy Monday! Well, I sure feel like the weekend flew by! Today, I’m recapping the highlights of our weekend!

Friday was a hard day. Very hard. I was counting the minutes until I could get home and put on my pajamas and just relax. We got carry out pizza, and I watched a movie and two episodes of Maid on Netflix. The movie I watched was Love Hard with my favorite comedian Heather McMahan. She was actually in Cincinnati on Friday night, and since I couldn’t be at the show, I decided to watch her new movie. She’s only in it a bit, but it was a cute movie, and she was so funny in the scenes she was in. I was happy to be in bed by 10!

On Saturday, I did a quick Trader Joe’s run, and picked up some of these cookies. They are so good!

Saturday evening my kids ran in a track meet at Bellarmine in Louisville. My nephew hosted the inaugural Lloyd White Memorial Distance Festival in honor of Trav’s dad (Jacob and my kids’ grandpa) who died tragically when Travis was in high school. There were so many awesome runners. The weather was cold (37 degrees at race time), but I loved seeing my kids run in honor of their grandfather. Hadley hadn’t laced up her spikes since last February, but she finished with a great time. Hayden crushed his run.

It was great seeing family, and we were all proud of every runner and Jacob’s team for hosting the event.

Brrr!!

Hayden had a basketball training session on Saturday morning. I know this may sound silly, but just sitting there watching him play while reading a book was a highlight of the weekend. Honestly, I usually schedule every second of the week and weekend. I typically would have run an errand during that time, but was glad to just hang out and watch.

Last night, Hayden had a game which was an exciting one to watch. His team won by two points, so it was an action packed game!

Hadley helped me make our first (only?) pumpkin pie of the season.

This one can definitely be filed under “tastes better than it looks.” My oven was acting up, so I was lucky to even get it baked! It tasted delish with a dollop of Cool Whip on top!

So, that’s how we spent our weekend! Travis has been really busy with work, so I’ve been extra busy on kid duty. Thankfully, we have just this week before getting a week off for Thanksgiving. Our superintendent changed our calendar about a month ago to give us a week at Thanksgiving. I’ll take it!

I hope you have a great start to your week.

Linking up with Heather and others!

Posted in Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites {#90}

Hello! Well, we made it to Friday! This week was a good one! While it was busy per usual, we did have a couple of nights without any evening activities. That meant I had a couple of evenings to sit and enjoy the glow of my Christmas tree and fall scented candle while watching episodes of Holiday Baking Championship. Tis the season for all things festive.

Since it’s Friday, I’m linking up with Andrea and Erika to share my favorites from the week.

Favorite Moment:

Once his middle school cross country season wrapped up, Hayden started running with Thomson Training. Thomson Training is a club team developed by our nephew, Jacob. On Saturday, Hayden finished 6th. It was so fun to see him coached by his cousin in his first national race as a middle schooler. Thomson Training had the highest team score in all four races they competed in. I’m so happy that Hayden’s enjoying himself, and we are proud of Jacob and all that he’s accomplished and how he’s helping kids achieve their own goals now!

Favorite Food:

We’ve had so many great dinners this week!

Bev’s Simple Chicken Pasta Soup is always a favorite.

Shay’s Easy Skillet Enchilada was also perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner.

Favorite Photo:

Hayden missed out on having the team and individual cross country school photos taken when he was out with Covid. Thankfully, we have a professional in the family, and Uncle Chet took some amazing photos of Hayden a couple weeks ago. The fall colors were showing off, and Hayden was a good sport. I know getting his photo taken isn’t his favorite thing to do, but Chet sure got some good shots of my boy!

That little smile is my favorite.

Favorite Kid Quote:

The other day, Hadley, in a random quest of wanting to add a dog to the family said, “Mom, we need a replica of Homer!” When I looked at her after using the word “replica,” she said, “Hey! It’s a vocab word!” haha

Favorite Clothing Item:

I ordered this tunic top from Amazon recently, and I love it.

Tunic top

It comes in a variety of colors, and can be dressed up or down. I wore it the other day to school with jogger style pants and one of my favorite pairs of flats. I also can’t wait to wear it with jeans or leggings soon. I think this will be one that I purchase in another color at some point.

Other Faves:

This meme made me laugh. 🤣 It’s been so true this week!

A few more photos from Uncle Chet:

This one seems like it needs a “hype” song playing along with it…

…and I love the leaves in the background of this one along with Hayden’s sweet smile.

Favorite Mom Meme:

I finally made my kids purge their candy collection. They sorted through their faves, threw away the empty wrappers, and swapped a few pieces. The rest is going in the trash today!

Bonus Fave: Flashback Friday:

This pic of Hadley in kindergarten is always a favorite memory. She wore these sunglasses with no lenses off and on for a few weeks when she was five! So sweet.

Weekly Recap:

I had a few posts this week including two fun link ups (NJAM and Let’s Look) as well as a Thursday Thoughts post!

I hope you have a great weekend! Of course, we have a few things on tap, but I’m looking forward to no plans tonight, and hopefully sleeping in a bit tomorrow.

Take care,

{this post contains Amazon affiliate links…}

Posted in Me, Thursday Thoughts

Thursday Thoughts

Hello! Today, I have a Thursday Thoughts post.

I’ve shared Erin’s (@cathartic_word) Enneagram graphics in previous posts. When I’m scrolling the ‘Gram, I immediately stop and look at her posts. Her Enneagram graphics are amazing, and I immediately swipe to see what she’s created for 5w6.

I’ve had this “Things each Enneagram loves” post saved for a while, and today I’m breaking down my thoughts on the 5 (investigator) and the 6 (loyalist).

Things each Enneagram type loves…

Type 5:

  • Quiet time: Heck yes. I’ve shared before that I need my morning quiet time to start my day. If I can have pockets of quiet time throughout the day, that’s even better!
  • Take out: While I love eating out, I also enjoy just getting take out and eating dinner at home in the comfort of my home. There’s nothing better than pajamas, a good book, and food I didn’t have to cook 😉
  • No plans: Do you know what’s better than no plans? Cancelled plans! haha
  • Long talks: This one is less like me than the others. I think after talking all day long with students, I’m ok with shorter conversations. That being said, it’s always good to catch up with someone I haven’t seen in a while.
  • Their bed: Absolutely! While I don’t mind travelling, there are times I’ve left my house thinking about how many nights of sleep until I’m back at home and in my own bed (with my favorite pillow, my weighted blanket, and my sound machine! #highmaintenancesleeper)
  • New books: Have you met me? This is a definite yes. I love a new book! It’s like meeting a new friend.

Type 6:

  • Stationery: It must be the teacher in me because I do love stationery.
  • Multiple cups: of coffee?? haha I do have my favorite coffee mug, water tumbler, and wine glass. I guess I am particular about my drinkware!
  • New pens: Again, the teacher in me…I start every year off with a new pack of pens. My faves are Optimus Fine Point Pen or Paper Mater Flair.
  • Dinner date: Sure! It’s not often we get to go out, but I do love grabbing dinner out with Travis.
  • Reliable Friends: I’ve learned through the years it’s the quality not the quantity of many things, including friends! I appreciate those who “get” me and are there for me.
  • Mismatched socks: uh no. This is definitely not me! It drives me crazy when I can’t find the match to a sock.

I feel like this glimpse of what a 5w6 Enneagram type loves is pretty spot on.

You should definitely check out Ashton’s Instagram account. She has so many fun Enneagram posts, and she often shares cute seasonal graphics that can be used for phone backgrounds.

See you back here tomorrow for Friday Favorites.

Posted in Holidays, Let's look

Let’s Look

Hello! How’s your week going? I can’t believe it’s already the second Wednesday of the month, so I’m linking up with Shay and Erika for Let’s Look.

I haven’t been as consistent with my Let’s Look posts, but so far this year, I’ve shared:

  • Coffee bars (my favorite coffee mugs) in January
  • Love languages in February
  • The perfect night in for March
  • Outdoor organization (I shared my outdoor space) in May
  • Meal planning in September

This month’s topic is Thanksgiving Menu.

I think I’ve shared in previous posts, but we are typically with family on Thanksgiving which means I’ve rarely had to do much cooking! Thanksgiving has always been my favorite holiday because there isn’t the stress of buying presents, the food is delicious, and I love starting my morning with the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade.

For Thanksgiving, besides seeing family and the great food, I love a good table scape.

My cousin always knocks it out of the park with her holiday decor:

2019
Who doesn’t love a personalized chocolate turkey?

With the 2020 restrictions, last year, we celebrated Thanksgiving with only my brother’s family. So, we didn’t see extended family, but at least we were able to get together with nearby relatives.

My sister-in-law outdid herself as well with the dinner table.

I believe she got the place cards off Etsy, and then everyone had a delicious cookie on their place setting.

The only time I eat the school lunch is when they serve the Thanksgiving menu. It’s always a day to look forward to!

Thanksgiving Menu:

On the big day, we are pretty traditional with our Thanksgiving food:

  • Turkey
  • Mashed potatoes and gravy
  • Green beans or green bean casserole
  • Hash brown casserole
  • Cornbread casserole
  • Stuffing
  • Mac and cheese
  • Sweet potato casserole
  • Rolls
  • Pumpkin and pecan pie

Last year, we had a friend deep fry the turkey. Then, my sister-in-law and I split up some of the side items. I made sausage dressing for the first time ever, and it was delish.

Pumpkin pie is my favorite fall dessert. I actually plan on making one this weekend! Then, we’ll have one again for Thanksgiving. (Fun fact: I like my pumpkin pie served cold.)

So, that’s a look at our Thanksgiving menu!

Next month’s topic is: favorite traditions. Well, we have many! I can’t wait to share.

What’s your favorite Thanksgiving menu item? I’ve seen this graphic shared before, and I’m definitely more Missouri than Kentucky! #givemeallthecarbs

Thanks so much for reading,

Posted in Gift Ideas, Not Just a Mom

Not Just a Mom

Hello! Happy Monday. How was your weekend? We had a pretty good one with a bit of downtime, but also a few activities like Hayden’s cross country meet and basketball game as well as the UK football game.

I’m one of the weird ones who likes to “fall back” an hour. Don’t get me wrong, I also enjoy when we “spring forward,” but during the fall months, I like to embrace the early darkness and enjoy time at home.

Today, I’m linking up with some of my favorite bloggers for our Not Just a Mom series.

Today’s topic is: favorite small shops

I’ve written a few posts about my favorite Etsy purchases. When I think about shopping small, I immediately think of Etsy. Through the years, I don’t think I’ve ever been disappointed with a single purchase from Etsy.

Of course, I try to support local small businesses too. If you are in the Lexington area, some of my favorites are: The Front Porch, Peggy’s, Story, Queen Bee, and Peacocks and Pearls.

Etsy Shops:

Here are a few of my favorite Etsy shops:

SprinkledWithPink:

I ordered this bag from SprinkledWithPink as an end of the year teacher gift last year, and it was so cute.

Hadley’s teacher told me she took it to the beach with her, and I know it’s perfect for toting books as well.

They have so many cute items that can be personalized like bags, pouches, phone cases and more.

RiLeeMDesigns:

I’ve bought these flower pots from RiLeeMDesigns a few times, both for myself, and as gifts.

The handpainted detail is amazing, and so cute.

As a gift, I’ve potted some flowers for an extra added touch.

Also, she has so many cute door hangers!

SummerDuffyDesign:

SummerDuffyDesign has so many cute gift options, but this pencil sign/door hanger was the perfect graduation gift for our sitter as she started her new teaching career!

Other really cute items in the shop include key chains, ornaments and bookmarks!

SweetMommaBlair:

I’ve purchased sweatshirts from SweetMommaBlair a few times, and they are cute and great quality.

Go Chiefs

Check out the Etsy shop especially if you are in Missouri. Tons of KC and St. L options!

Go Tigers

MelandMae:

Hadley loves a cute sweatshirt as much as I do. This one from MelandMae is so cute, and it’s one she wears often!

I also got Hadley this “Merry and Bright” one that she wore last holiday season.

AveandAshDesigns:

These books from AveandAsheDesigns are one of my favorite pieces of home decor.

I have “Hayden and Hadley” ones, and I’ve gifted these to my mom with the grandkids names.

According to Etsy, it looks like this shop might be taking a little break? I found these similar personalized books from a different Etsy shop.

That Inspired Chick:

ThatInspiredChick has so many awesome gift options. From wood signs to tumblers to mugs to earrings, and so much more… You won’t be disappointed with the cuteness and the quality.

Many of the items above are linked in these posts, but there are even more gift items in these as well:

What are your favorite small shops?

Next month, our topic is: favorite holiday movies

Make sure to check out the other posts, and link up if you can!

Thanks so much for reading,

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