Happy New Year! Last year started as a blur and has seemed to slow down a little bit now that it’s wrapping up. I have that “ how did we get here?” thought but also the “It's been Christmas for 5 years let’s pack it in”. In the start of a year our youngest was still a squirmy little baby and now she is a full on walking, talking (read: screaming) toddler. Our oldest was barely talking and today explained to me the controls on his toy car and how our elf on the shelf will be heading back to the North Pole soon “but he’ll come back next year”. Having children makes time such a funny construct. They were completely different at the start of the year and I can’t handle thinking about the little people they will be at the end of 2025.
With the end of the year I thought I would share some favorites that have stood out in 2024. Cheers!
Book Nonfiction: Garlic and Sapphires by Ruth Reichl. Reichl is such a fantastic author. The was she describes food makes me want to get in the kitchen. This book is white, clever and somehow meaningful. It weaves a great story that reads like fiction.
Book Fiction: Margo’s Got Money Troubles by Rufi Thorpe. This book is so clever and fresh. I listened to it and didn’t want it to end. I have a hard time getting into fiction but this was such an entertaining read. I can’t wait for the series!
Recipe This sausage and rice recipe was by far my most made meal of 2024. It is easy, tasty and both kids eat it. I add a can of red beans at the end that gives this a little boost of flavor and coziness.
Clothes I love that a great sweat set is in style. I had these pants for a year and decided it was time to get another color. I was seriously wearing them everyday straight from the laundry. When my son saw me in this new hot pink set for the first time he was delighted! The “WOW MOMMY” was enough to give us a good giggle. It’s reasonably priced and washes well. This will be my go to mom fit in 2025.
Kid Purchase This year was the year of the trains. Like most toddler boys my son is obsessed with all vehicles but this train set is perfect for on the go. It stores in the track which is perfect for travel and storage. This was a big hit with the toddlers at the vineyard this summer and even allowed us to have a drink in peace.
Beauty Every time I stray from Biossance I come running back. I love every product in this gift set so much, I repurchased it several times before finally committing to the larger versions. The rose face oil is by far my favorite beauty product of 2024 and when I don’t use the face oil, I notice the next day. I got the gift set for my sister for Christmas and she also loves it. Gotta love when clean beauty actually works!
I hope 2024 brought you some good times and growth. Looking forward to sharing more in 2025
xx Amanda