Things I LOVE and a GIVEAWAY!!!
Many bloggers like to share their favorite gift items this time of year, and I do too! These are some of the items that make my life just that much more enjoyable. AND, I'm giving two of them away to YOU! Read to the end to enter! This post contains affiliate links where you can also read reviews about these items!
BEAUTY
Essie Nail Polish in Midnight Cami (And Ballet Slippers!)
Midnight Cami is the perfect color for Fall! It's super rich and pretty! I tend to go for dark or bold colors for my pedicures!
I also love a French manicure on my fingernails. I don't love the price I pay for one at the salon, nor do I often have the time for that. Enter, the color Ballet Slippers! It's my go-to polish 9 times out of 10 for manicures and it's one of the brand's top sellers!
Maria Milanes, Hairstylist and Makeup Artist
Few people know me better than my friend Maria. She's not just as sister in Christ-she makes me look my best too!! Maria was one of my bridesmaids and on my wedding day, she did my hair and makeup and then stood beside me as I said my vows to my husband. If I'm going to share some of my favorite things, the list is simply not complete without mentioning this talented woman!
AND if you live in Southern California or happen to be visiting, she is giving a major discount to new clients who make appointments at her Santa Clarita Valley location-20% off! Maria is available at her location in Porter Ranch as well!
I have never left Maria's chair disappointed. She has been styling, and coloring my hair and doing my makeup for the last 10 plus years and her integrity, professionalism, commitment to ongoing growth as a stylist, passion for creating makeovers, and friendly approach makes her a must in my book! I just LOVE her!! Take a look at her websites here and here!
To make an appointment, call 818 363-5226 now so you can take advantage of her discount for the holidays!
Elnett Hairspray by L'oreal
The beauty of this hairspray is that it truly feels and looks natural for everyday hairdos. I have never found a spray that held my hair better while still feeling weightless. I use it every day! Well, every day I actually comb my hair!
FASHION
Indu Earrings, Trades of Hope
THESE are everyday earrings for me! I LOVE them. Love. Them. But the products from Trades of Hope are not just eye candy!
When you buy these earrings or many other fashion and household items, you can change the world just by shopping – your purchases from Trades of Hope will help these artisans feed their families, put a roof over their heads, send their children to school, and step out of poverty. What better purchase than one that does GOOD towards others too!
Go ahead and shop here to support this wonderful cause: www.mytradesofhope.com/parties/6561
Michael Kors Satchel
If you are going to invest in one great bag, let it be from Michael Kors. It will last long after the cows come home. Superior quality and endless style, these are my all time favorite purses worth saving for! Seriously gorgeous.
Leopard Print Scarf
I wear mine with almost everything. In my humble opinion, a leopard print scarf is chic and effortless. Throw one on over a black dress or with a t-shirt and jeans. It comes in a beautiful brown color too!
FOOD
Iveta Gourmet Cherry Scones
It was Christmas. My cousin handed me the gift box and what was inside would change my life. Okay, that's a little bit of an exaggeration. But it does convey how much I LOVE THESE SCONES! They are absolutely heavenly! If you don't believe me, believe Oprah. They are on her list of favorite things too! You can try the gluten free version of other flavors as well!
Ezekiel 4:9 Sprouted Grain Tortillas
I bought these reluctantly. I was certain the first bite would taste like dirty cardboard. I have never been so wrong in my life! We devour these in our house-no GMO's, no preservatives, certified organic grains, and 100% goodness! Do yourself a favor and buy a stack to keep in your freezer and then pull them out as needed!
BOOKS
For The Love of God, A Woman's Guide to Finding Faith and Getting Grace by Jenny Lee Sulpizio
This book is a new release and I absolutely LOVE the heart behind it's message:
“Being new is never easy--especially when it comes to finding your faith. But you don't need a big neon sign to point the way to God. Instead, you need a friend to tell it to you straight, equip you with information, and provide some much-needed encouragement along the way. Indeed, you need guidance from a woman who has already walked a mile in your shoes.
Jenny Lee Sulpizio invites you to silence those doubts, experience God's grace, and breathe in the unconditional love you were always meant to know. It's a guide for women unsure of their Creator, in search of answers, and interested in pursuing a genuine relationship with the Lord. Because this walk with God--this journey with Jesus? It's about to change everything.”
The Pioneer Woman Cooks: A Year of Holidays
Ree Drummond's A Year of Holidays cookbook highlights meals for every occasion. I usually don't need a good reason to make fun food, but this cookbook pushes me over the edge. The step-by-step pictures make cooking and baking fool-proof. Love it!
The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren
If I had to choose only one non-fiction book to read besides the Bible, for the rest of my life, it would be this one. Easy to read, Biblically sound, and full of encouragement. It answers the question, “What on earth am I here for?” I can't recommend it highly enough!
HOUSEWARES
Wilton 8 X 3 inch Cake Pans
I use these 8 inch round cake pans to make my famous triple layer triple chocolate fudge cake-so I have 3 of them! This size can be hard to find in stores. These guys get used on frequent rotation since chocolate cake is my boys favorite treat and of course, their first request for birthday parties! Here's a picture of a cake I baked and decorated for my son's "Camp Out" birthday party this week-isn't it sooooo cute?!
"Leaves" Bath N Body Works Candle
My closest friends will tell you that I am obsessed with the "Leaves" candle from Bath N Body Works. NO OTHER SCENT compares. It's absolutely the most perfect candle EVER. I love how these 3 wick candles burn evenly and last forever!
GIVEAWAY!!!
I'm giving away author, Jenny Lee Sulpizio's book AND a bottle of Essie nail polish to one blessed reader!
TO ENTER TO WIN, simply leave a comment here telling me about one of your all time favorite things! To receive a second entry, share this post and let me know in the comments section! The contest will end at midnight on November 30th and I will notify the winner via email!
YOUR TURN! What is one of your favorite things? :)
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