Hanging Off The Wire

Amazing Gifts & Finds For #Summer2026 #MomsDadsGrads2026

2026-05-27T03:20:32.216-05:00

Summer celebrations are in full swing, with Graduations happening all over, and Dad's Day coming up fast! Here are some great finds for all your Summer Celebrations!

This Finisterre swimsuit is a perfect piece of summer fashion for the ladies in the family! Made with recycled material, well-made, and flattering. It is time to hit the beach or the pool! I felt confident in this, and I really like the pattern! Great quality, too!

Budsies makes custom stuffed animals. They can do everything from turning kids' art into plushies (Budsies), turning people - including military personnel and kiddos in graduation gear - into plushies for the family to hug while they are deployed (Selfies), and if you have pets, we make stuffed animal replicas too (Petsies). We got something from the Petsies line! Bobbleheads of our animals! They take the real photos that you send in and create these custom-made, cute little bobbleheads of your animals as a wonderful keepsake! A perfect gift for anyone who loves their animals and wants to memorialize them in to something fun! The pic above is of our Gracie, Louie, and Glory!

Need a new read? The Ledger by Steven Manchester is set in a medium-security penitentiary in the mid-1990s. The Ledger is a faith-based story that pulls back the curtain on prison life, allowing the reader a safe peek behind the wall. Although told from three alternating perspectives - officer, inmate, and sergeant - many of the same questions are asked: Can light be found in the deepest darkness? What about forgiveness, redemption, and grace? If the code is clear, “loyalty above all things except honor,” when should an officer cross the blue line to police one of his own?

A little treat in a cup! Perfect for when you just need something sweet! JarJoy is a fast growing fast and continues to gain new retail chains wanting to sell the yummy dessert cups. Some of the top retailers include: Publix, ShopRite, Hy-Vee, Meijer, and soon Wegmans as everyday items in their dairy desserts section near milk/eggs. Also, for special promotions, they show up in Aldi and Costco stores. So good! I could not pick a favorite! All of them!

Morning Lift is a delicious, instant coffee that is infused with 6 potent mushroom extracts and organic superfoods to help you feel sharper, lighter, and more energized. Just one scoop can help sharpen your mind and focus for a more productive day as well as promote healthy digestion, gut balance, and fewer cravings.

Eastern Accents is a Chicago company that designs and manufactures luxury bedding, furniture, and fabrics here in the US. We got some awesome throw pillows that are so beautiful and well-made, as well as comfy! And! They can do custom in their DesignLab! We got a pillow for Callan to celebrate his next steps along his journey, and it is so beautiful, I almost cried when I saw it! Plus, he loves it! The photo does not do justice to how gorgeous it is! A fun, unique gift!

~Hayley

Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. I have used direct text from the website of the company/product I am promoting to facilitate in my review.

Fun Finds For #MomsDadsGrads2026

2026-05-05T04:00:00.023-05:00

As the season comes into full swing, with Mother's Day right around the corner, and Graduations happening all over, and Dad to celebrate soon, here are some great finds for gifts, care packages, or just because!

TeeRex is a business that focuses on creating "Dad Joke" t-shirts that would be great for a Father's Day gift. They feature funny shirts like "100 Acre Hood" - a Gangster Winnie The Pooh that makes a pun off the magical world of the 100 Acre Hood. They also specialize in funny movie references from the late 1990s - early 2000s, which fit exactly with the father demographic! They have unisex shirts, so Mom, or anyone, can get in on the fun too!

Whether you’re staying active, exploring new destinations, or relaxing after a long day, Bombshell Sportwear's versatile essentials make it easy to look and feel your best. Perfect for Mom or the off-to-college young woman who wants to be comfortable, no matter what she's doing!

From happiness expert and NYT bestselling author Gretchen Rubin, the "I Want You to Know" Journal is designed to solve the what do I say? problem. It’s an easy-to-fill-out portrait of a loved one that uses thought-provoking prompts (like "A habit of yours I secretly find endearing is...") to help the giver create a personalized tribute. It’s a way for adult children to finally tell their parents what they mean to them, moving beyond a standard card. Parents can fill it out for a graduating senior as a "survival guide" of love and memories to take to college or their first job. It’s designed to be completed quickly but kept forever.

Ink & Magnets - Hand-pressed custom photo magnets with pictures - get them off your phone and display them! See them every day! Such a great gift! We love magnets as keepsakes. This is the perfect heartfelt gift that anyone can use!

Unhinged Trinkets is a fun online shop that makes tiny magnetic hinge toppers that sit on door hinges like little “door pets.” They’re a fun gift for Moms, Dads, or Grads moving into a dorm, apartment, or first home. They’re small, affordable, and a little different from the usual gift-guide picks. A fun little memory item, too! I love these!

Enamio Remineralizing Gum - Actively rebuilds and strengthens enamel. Prevents cavities and reduces sensitivity. Gently polishes and whitens teeth. Lasting Remineralization after chewing. Neutralizes harmful acids and bacteria. Delivers long-lasting fresh breath. Perfect for active people on the go!

~Hayley

Food & Drink, Includes Health & Wellness #MomsDadsGrads2026

2026-04-25T04:00:00.018-05:00

This year is a big one for me as a Mom of a Grad! He is moving on to bigger and better things, and I will be an Empty-Nester! It is an exciting time, but also very stressful, and change is scary! So this summer, we are really focusing on health, relaxation, and self-care! Here are some amazing finds to assist with all of that, and more!

Mitra9’s Non-Alcoholic Botanical Seltzers - Mitra9 is a Florida-based beverage brand making waves with its functional, plant-based drinks - crafted to help people relax, unwind, or focus without alcohol. These aren't your average NA seltzers - they’re infused with ingredients like Kava to support mood and mental clarity, and have quickly become a favorite for those seeking a more mindful drinking experience. This is my new nighttime fave - helps me sleep and I am not hungover in the morning.

Mighty Maca is a delicious, powerful, restorative superfood drink mix. Mighty Maca’s nutrient-rich formula contains ingredients that may support the body's natural processes, contribute to normal energy levels, and promote digestive comfort. With a slew of other amazing benefits, Mighty Maca is a must-have for your daily routine!

Bright & Beautiful is a specially formulated blend that works on natural repair for healthy skin, hair, and eyes. It promotes healthy production of the skin's oils to support overall skin health and cellular repair while supporting dry eye relief. Bright & Beautiful will have you shining from the inside out!

Norse Code Protein is a premium plant-based protein powder in Chocolate and Vanilla that works as a thoughtful self-care or wellness gift for adults who want easy daily nutrition. Low sugar, smooth texture, no chalky finish, and easy to enjoy as a warm drink or blended shake. It feels practical and elevated at the same time. Chocolate and Vanilla make it easy to use every day, and the product appeals to adults looking for a simple wellness upgrade rather than a hardcore fitness supplement.

Gigawatt Coffee Roasters is an air-roasted coffee company based outside Chicago that sells direct-to-consumer online nationwide and does 250+ farmers' markets and events a year. The Gigawatt Coffee Sample Pack makes a great gift for any coffee-loving mom, dad, or new grad. Five 3-oz bags of the most popular coffees, each a different origin and roast profile. Every bag brews a full 12-cup pot, so it's not a novelty gift that's gone in one morning. It's enough coffee to actually explore and find a favorite.

Spice World is known for its high-quality, ready-to-use garlic, ginger, and onion, along with globally inspired seasoning blends. While simple, these are the kinds of everyday essentials that make thoughtful, practical gifts for anyone who enjoys cooking, hosting, or just making meals a little easier and more flavorful. These products help streamline prep while delivering bold, fresh flavor across everything from weeknight meals to more elevated dishes like marinades, sauces, and spreads. They also bring added wellness benefits, with ingredients like garlic supporting immune health, ginger offering anti-inflammatory properties, and onion contributing to gut health. We were so excited to get this package! Spices we use every day, and some we don't - like the fresh peeled ginger! We were able to cook some new meals with new flavors! So fun! And yummy!

Nama delivers American-farmed, premium hemp-infused products and does it in a way that tastes great. Nama has effective plant-based products fully infused and so delicious, you will find something to help you relax, sleep, for daytime, nighttime, anytime! I am absolutely in love with this brand!

~Hayley

Happy Arbor Day

2026-04-24T04:00:00.003-05:00

Happy Earth Day

2026-04-22T04:00:00.003-05:00

National Pediatric Transplant Week is April 19–25, 2026 #MasonsMission #DonateLife

2026-04-19T04:00:00.005-05:00

Happy Husband Appreciation Day

2026-04-18T04:00:00.004-05:00

World Parkinson's Day 2026

2026-04-11T04:00:00.005-05:00

National Donate Life Blue & Green Day #MasonsMission #DonateLife

2026-04-10T04:00:00.004-05:00

Great Finds For Moms & Grads

2026-04-09T04:00:00.100-05:00

This time of year, celebrations are abundant! Whether it is a gift for Mom on Mother's Day or a gift for a Graduate moving on to life's next adventure, these picks are great for helping the celebrations and transitions go smoothly!

Keep Going First Aid Kits - For the mom who does it all - from cheering on the sidelines to managing weekend adventures - Keep Going First Aid Kits are a practical, stylish Mother’s Day essential. Created by a mom of four, these TSA‑approved kits are packed with 130+ everyday necessities, including bandages, blister care, burn relief, and antiseptic wipes. Available in four sizes and fun patterns like Sports, Tie‑Dye, and Woodland, they tuck easily into car consoles, backpacks, and diaper bags. For moms who coach, travel, or spend long days outdoors, the Adult GoKits in Seafoam Green or Fierce Red offer a durable, elevated upgrade. There’s even a Pet Kit for moms of furry family members. Explore the full collection at www.KeepGoingFirstAid.com and Amazon.

Handzies Soap + Water Wipes - For moms who love clean hands, clean kids, and clean everything, Handzies Soap + Water Wipes are a thoughtful, practical Mother’s Day pick. Made with just soap, water, and plant‑based ingredients, these all‑natural wipes offer a gentle, sink‑free clean without harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances, or drying alcohol. Perfect for sensitive skin and everyday messes, they’re ideal for stashing in purses, glove compartments, diaper bags, and travel totes. Their TSA‑friendly size makes them a must‑have for moms on the go - from school drop‑off to weekend getaways. Explore the full line at www.Handzies.com. Also available on Amazon.

Graasi Organic Barley Water is a USDA-certified organic barley water made and sourced in the United States, packed with detoxifying barley grass juice powder plus 100% of your daily vitamins C, D, and zinc, giving you the clean energy and immune boost you need. They are low sugar, low calorie, vegan, plant-based, and gluten-free, and come in three enticing flavors: lemongrass ginger, citrus mint, and cucumber lime.

The What I Love About You series makes a meaningful and personal gift for milestone moments, especially when families are preparing to send a loved one off on such a significant new chapter. For Graduation, the What I Love About You, Son and What I Love About You, Daughter editions offer a heartfelt way for parents and loved ones to express pride, love, and encouragement. Each book is filled with simple fill-in-the-blank prompts, making it easy to create a deeply personal keepsake that can be treasured during time apart. Mother's Day and Father's Day are coming too, and the What I Love About You, Mom and What I Love About You, Dad editions are also a perfect fit - designed to help capture gratitude and appreciation, memories and love in a thoughtful and heartfelt way. Stuck for ideas to create the perfect answer? Don't worry, simply use the QR code on page 73 to download our How-To-Guide containing suggested responses for each prompt, ensuring the creation of a memorable and cherished gift. Available on Amazon.com, TikTok Shop, and the website.

Jemluse Wireless CarPlay Adapter - A smart tech upgrade for moms whose cars only support wired Apple CarPlay. This adapter offers fast connectivity, strong performance, and intelligent power-saving to instantly convert wired systems into wireless - making daily commutes, school drop-offs, and errands cable-free and seamless. Available on Amazon.

Mearter Ultra Push-Up Sticky Bra Inserts - These double-sided adhesive inserts provide an instant push-up effect without wires or straps and stay invisible under backless or strapless styles. They’re reusable, washable, cotton-lined for comfort, and include nipple covers for a seamless look.

KAL Vitamins is a trusted supplement brand with a legacy dating back to 1932, known for science-backed formulas and clean ingredients. Popular options include Magnesium Glycinate, B-Complex, Vitamin D3 drops, and Zinc. KAL recently launched a quick online quiz that helps consumers identify personalized supplements based on lifestyle, health goals, and needs.

~Hayley

Happy Easter 2026

2026-04-05T04:00:00.004-05:00

Blue & Green Spirit Week Begins #DonateLife #MasonsMission

2026-04-04T04:00:00.013-05:00

Blue & Green Spirit Week (April 4-11, 2026) Includes:

Dress Up Your Pet Day

Make Blue & Green Treats

Thank Your Healthcare Team

Write a Message of Hope

Donate Life Flag Raising Day

Create Donate Life Art

Donate Life Blue & Green Day

Share Your Decision Day

Happy Good Friday

2026-04-03T04:00:00.003-05:00

Living Donor Day #MasonsMission #DonateLife

2026-04-01T04:30:00.004-05:00

April Is National Donate Life Month #MasonsMission #DonateLife

2026-04-01T04:00:00.005-05:00

Happy Palm Sunday

2026-03-29T04:00:00.003-05:00

Sorry For The Long Pause

2026-03-26T04:43:00.008-05:00

I apologize that I have been MIA for a few weeks. Life has gotten crazy - when your son is preparing to graduate (#ClassOf2026!) and head off to Basic Training - well, I am sure you can imagine that all of our time for these last 10 weeks we have with him is focused on him! But I know that I am going to need something to occupy my time (and mind) while he is gone - so let's get back into the swing of it, shall we?

Coming up, you can look forward to Round-Ups including:

Graduation 2026 (obviously!)

Mother's Day

Summer Time Must-Haves

Father's Day

4th Of July

And much more, I am sure!

If there is anything you want to see, let me know. I might also just be using this as an outlet to dump my Mama-Feelings, too! Eeeks!

Stay tuned!

~Hayley

Products For Pet Parents This Spring

2026-02-27T05:40:00.005-06:00

Spring is coming, I promise. And what comes with Spring? Spring Cleaning! Sometimes we do not think of our pets as part of that. But when you are cleaning your home, you are cleaning their home too! Here are some great products to help with that!

Charlie's Soap Heavy 1001 Degreaser

Family Owned for Three Generations! Made in the USA! The only downside of owning a cat is the litter box – but cleaning it is easy with the 1001 degreaser. This biodegradable, heavy-duty degreaser is all-purpose, all-in-one, and all you need to take on 1,001+ messes. Powerful enough to tackle any mess, but gentle on your hands and the planet.

Topanga Scents

For cat parents who want a fresh, inviting home without exposing their fur babies to harsh chemicals, Topanga Scents delivers a safer, elevated solution that blends clean living with high-performance, luxury fragrance. Because cats groom constantly and are especially vulnerable to ingesting household toxins, the brand focuses on science-backed, biodegradable, phthalate-free, dye-free formulations that reduce chemical buildup in indoor air and actually neutralize odors instead of masking them. Proudly made in the USA, Topanga Scents offers a refined lineup of home and personal care products with eco-friendly ingredients and truly long-lasting fragrance in every spray, wash, and pump, all housed in modern packaging and available in a range of sophisticated scents designed to match any mood!

~Hayley

Great Products For The New Year #NewYear2026

2026-01-05T04:00:00.047-06:00

We love to try a variety of new things all year long, but we find it so fun and refreshing at the beginning of the year! Check out these finds:

Shady Lady was started 5 years ago because the founder couldn't find a hat that fit her well. While doing research, she learned that all hats are made from the measurements of a man's head, which is why they never look good on women, but they are changing all of that by making the best-fitting women's hats! They also make matching kids hats for the mommy and me look. Shady Lady was noticed by buyers at Macy's and now sells on macys.com as well as Ron Jon Surf Shops, Amazon, and over 50 other stores across the country. As the only company making hats to fit women, they are positioned to dominate this market.

Since many people are looking to refresh their workspaces for the New Year, the 3-Tier Rotating Desk Organizer would be a great addition to your office space. It’s designed to clear up desk clutter while adding a really cute, functional touch to a home office or in the workplace!

Rust stains on cutlery and inside dishwashers are more than annoying – they can damage your appliances and ruin your dishes. Rust Guard prevents this problem before it even starts. How does Rust Guard work? Insert – Place Rust Guard in your dishwasher’s cutlery basket and leave it inside. Protect – The aluminum core attracts rust particles in the water. Enjoy – Your dishes and dishwasher stay clean, safe, and rust-free!

~Hayley

Food & Treats For The New Year #NewYear2026

2026-01-04T04:00:00.047-06:00

We love to try new foods and drinks, and what better time than the New Year to find something you will love all year long! Check out these finds:

Amasar is a Puerto Rico/US-based company pioneering breadfruit as a sustainable, naturally gluten-free, and nutrient-dense ingredient, with currently 3 non-GMO skus includes breadfruit flour, waffle mix, and pancake mix, sourced at a woman-owned, 20-acre breadfruit agroforestry farm and state-of-the-art manufacturing facility.

The Juicy Drop Gummy Mystery Cube is a playful “peel and reveal” gummy treat featuring a peelable outer layer that reveals a surprise 3D animal-shaped gummy inside, delivering a multi-texture, multi-flavor experience that’s as fun to discover as it is to eat. Developed in partnership with viral candy innovators Amos, the cube brings edible entertainment straight to kids, teens, and nostalgic adults alike.

The Pale Rosé 2023 is a chic, refreshingly dry rosé that brings Côte d’Azur style to any celebration. Created by renowned winemaker Sacha Lichine, the mind behind Whispering Angel, this wine captures the glamour and ease of the French Riviera in every sip. It’s the ultimate bottle for gatherings, brunches, and cozy nights by the fire when something light, elegant, and effortlessly stylish is in order. Pale pink in the glass, it opens with delicate aromas of peach, red currant, and citrus blossom. The palate is crisp and lively with bright berry flavors, subtle minerality, and a clean, refreshing finish.

The 2024 Lloyd Cellars Sauvignon Blanc is a bright, expressive white. Released this past July 2025, it’s crafted for life’s spontaneous, joy-filled moments like impromptu dinner parties, festive gatherings, or quiet nights by the fire. It’s a bottle that feels as special as the season itself. Sourced from California’s Central Coast, this vintage balances coastal freshness with refined texture, delivering a wine that’s as versatile as it is elegant. Shimmering pale gold in the glass, it opens with aromas of Meyer lemon, white peach, and jasmine, layered with notes of wet stone and fresh herbs.

A kid in a candy store! Remember the thrill of entering a candy store and selecting from the countless options? Sweet Trolley brings that magic back - one premium, nostalgia-packed delivery at a time. Whether it’s for a valued client, a hard-working employee, or someone you love, each Sweet Trolley gift sparks joy, fuels connection, and leaves a lasting impression.

~Hayley

Health & Wellness Products For The New Year #NewYear2026

2026-01-03T04:00:00.078-06:00

Every year, it is nice to start fresh on a health and wellness routine. Here are some products to help get you going on the journey and keep you on the right path!

MyBladder by Purity Products is a thoughtful choice for anyone looking to support comfort, confidence, and everyday urinary wellness. Powered by UROX, an award-winning blend backed by more than 15 years of research, MyBladder helps support normal bladder control, urinary tract health, and healthy bladder strength and tone. Formulated with Cratevox stem bark extract, Horsetail extract, and Lindera root extract, this gentle, plant-based formula is suitable for both women and men, and 84% of users report satisfaction after just eight weeks.

Introducing my female readers to your new Breast Friend for 2026! The new, patented Karya Tank Top is a modern wardrobe upgrade! The tank top has a built-in bra (with actual support, not a shelf bra), so it’s basically a 2-in-1, versatile first layer. It works as a cami on its own, or a bra substitute under sweaters and blazers; it’s a top so comfortable you can even sleep in it.

In Your Face Skincare is a woman-founded luxury skincare brand focused on wellness, self-care, and everyday rituals that actually feel good to maintain. Their approach to the New Year is less about drastic change and more about small upgrades that support consistency - formulas that nourish the skin, feel indulgent, and fit easily into real life. A few New Year-friendly picks include:

The Cream – the best-selling, deeply hydrating moisturizer designed to support firmer-looking, more radiant skin.

Bio-Peptide Firming Serum – a lightweight, rejuvenating serum that supports skin bounce and renewal.

Exfoliating Glow Body Polish – a gentle, spa-like body exfoliant that helps reset dry winter skin. All of the products are cruelty-free, thoughtfully formulated, and packaged in recyclable glass, making them a great fit for wellness-minded readers looking to start the year feeling cared for rather than overwhelmed.

Enamio gum is a natural, plastic/rubber-free chewing gum made from ancient tree sap known as chicle. Traditional gum is made with the same rubber as your car tire, which releases a ton of microplastics as you chew. (I had no idea!!!) Enamio gum also contains 7 active remineralizing agents to support oral and enamel health. Great for anyone looking to improve their oral health going into the new year!

My new fave product that blends self-care and recovery is the Magnesium Balm and Gua Sha Ritual Set from Dr. Doug’s. The Magnesium Balm is deeply moisturizing, fast-absorbing, and designed to ease post-workout tension, soreness, and everyday stress. The Gua Sha encourages circulation, relaxation, and mindful self-care - perfect for a quick reset or evening wind-down.

~Hayley

Happy New Year 2026

2026-01-01T04:00:00.003-06:00

Happy New Year's Eve

2025-12-31T04:00:00.003-06:00

National Pledge Of Allegiance Day

2025-12-28T04:00:00.003-06:00

Merry Christmas

2025-12-25T04:00:00.001-06:00