I Live for Stocking Stuffers

Okay, I know I've been MIA…again. Between the holiday chaos and trying to find my writing mojo, I’ve been slacking big time. I am trying to get back into a routine and this post is step one. I know we are in the final stretch before Christmas and I wanted to show some love to stockings. To be honest, I love filling Christmas stockings more than shopping for gifts under the tree. Because of the size, you have to get a little creative. Plus, things in small sizes are just cute.

Since my kids (ages 22 and 16) don’t read anything other than TikTok, there is no chance they will see this before Christmas morning.

The "Boy Smell" Defense System
Let's be real, boys smell. It's just science. Huron Body Wash in Sea Salt + Driftwood ($16) is a smell I can get behind. Also, boys deserve a little luxury in the shower.

A Throwback
How cute is a 4” mini record? There are only two songs on each record. I’m going with Notorious B.I.G. ($15) for my eldest because he loves records and can appreciate this legendary rapper.

A Conversation Starter
For my youngest, I’m going to stuff the NYC Trash Can Pen Holder ($58) into his stocking. He mentioned he liked this when we were on another site looking for sweatpants. This gift may be a throw away (pun intended), given his organization system is just throw it on the floor.

Unique Sweet Treats
This is a holiday tradition for their stockings. Compartes chocolate bars ($10) are small batch chocolate bars with unique flavor combinations. This year I'm tucking into their stocking Coney Island, Cereal Bowl, and Hot Chocolate and Marshmallow.

A Moment of Zen
Mello Mallo NeeDoh ($10) is satisfying to squeeze and they change color in the sun. No matter the age, we all have some stress we need to squeeze out.

Lucky Charm
Lottery scratch-off tickets are another holiday tradition. There's something fun about the possibility of turning Christmas morning into a really, really good Christmas morning.

What are you putting in your family's stockings? I'd love to hear what treasures you're hunting down. Oh and if you are looking for a stocking upgrade, I think these wool animal stockings from West Elm are festive and adorable.

Sorry I've Been MIA

Apologies for being radio silent for a few weeks. Remember when I mentioned in early October that my line of business was shutting down? Well, it happened. Now I have all this free time, and ironically, I'm completely blocked from researching and writing. I have a content calendar. Topics are mapped out. But zero motivation.

So instead of writing, I've been scrolling through The Real Real. My obsession started innocently. I was searching for a Movado watch. That was it. Down the rabbit hole I went. Pro tip on searching: narrow your searches by condition ("good" or "very good") and set a price range, or you'll lose hours searching and scrolling.

Here are some great pieces in the $100-$300 range. Fair warning: if you like something, grab it immediately. Half the items I wishlisted last night to share here were sold by this morning.My obsession with this site started when I was searching for a Movado watch (which I found for $114). The Real Real can be a rabbit hole. I usually narrow my searches using the condition “good” or “very good” and setting a price range.

Here are some goodies I found in the $100-$300 range in good condition. Just know, if you like what you find, you need to act fast. I put some items on my wish list to highlight here last night and today they were sold.

LEATHER GOODS:

• Saint Laurent Leather Wallet ($292) - Classic and luxurious looking. I didn’t see any visible wear and tear on the outside.

• Bottega Veneta Vintage Shoulder Bag ($276) - Not a winter bag, but perfect to score now for summer. I didn’t see any visible marks on the outside - not even on the bottom.

• Bottega Veneta Woven Leather Wallet ($196) - I’m a big fan of Bottega Veneta and this leather wallet is pristine on the outside.

• Gucci Bamboo Clutch ($228) - This red clutch feels festive for the holidays. The back has a couple of light marks, but nothing crazy noticeable.

• Coach Vintage Top Handle Bag ($157) - I have this same purse in a saddle brown. Classic with great structure. This is peak Coach quality era with minimal wear on the bottom. Honestly, this is a steal.

SHOES:

Staud Leather Boots, size 7 ($220) - These are in good condition and half the price of brand new.

Gucci Horsebit Loafers, size 8 ($277) - These have some visible scuffs at the toe box and a lot of creasing, but I do love a red shoe.

Stuart Weitzman Leather Boots, size 8.5 ($204) - A nice black tall boot never goes out of style.

CLOTHES:

La Ligne Wool Stripped Sweater, size M ($156) - Love this classic sweater. The listing notes "moderate pilling," but I zoomed in on every photo and couldn't see any.

Weekend Max Mara Wool Mock Neck Sweater, size XL ($100) - A classic cable with a modern fit.

Vintage Mink Fur Jacket, size L ($260) - That shawl collar! Pefect for a holiday or NYE party.

Sparkle at every price point.

I'll be honest: I keep it simple when it comes to jewelry. I wear a few standard pieces every day. Some may say that's boring. I like to think I'm classic.

Even though I don't tend to wear a ton of jewelry, I can absolutely appreciate pieces that don't fall into my standard repertoire. Here are the pieces I've been screenshotting lately—aka drooling over.

NECKLACES

$$$: This Little Bow Necklace from Waters and Stone ($135) is perfect for day or night. It comes in silver or brass, and you have the option of a 16” or 18” chain.

$$: The Tiger Red Devan Necklace from Xirena ($125) is very on trend right now. It provides a nice of pop of color, and if you have the budget, stacking it with other color combos creates a dramatic, but fun, casual look.

$: The Double Trouble Choker from Atolea ($57) is sweatproof and waterproof, which matters to me given my incessant hot flashes. I also like that you can wear it short or loose. And while I’m not a matchy-matchy fan, they do offer a Double Trouble bracelet if that’s your thing.

SPEAKING OF BRACELETS…

$$$: The XL Banksa Cuff in yellow bronze at Field & Supply ($580) is a work of art. It feels significant and delicate at the same time. It’s a great statement piece with a dress or a button down and jeans. There is a small Bnaksa cuff for $440. They also offer silver options, but they cost more than the yellow bronze.

$$: The Madison Cuff from Jennifer Fisher ($250) is another great cuff at about half the price of the XL Banksa. I like the rope look and it is somewhat flexible for comfort.

$: I gave a friend the Basquiat Bracelet from GLDN ($76) with the initials of her mother and father. It’s a bracelet that can be worn everyday and it has special meaning.

RINGS

$$$: This statement Orb Ring from Waters and Stone ($150) stands out with it’s simplicity.

$$: The Charlotte Puffy Ring ($98) from Mejuri has a similar feel to the Waters and Stone Orb ring.

$: And the Croissant Ring from Quince ($40) is similar to the Mejuri Charlotte Puffy Ring. A similar croissant ring at Clare V goes for $395.

EARRINGS

$$$: The Pavé Diamond Huggie Hoops from Mejuri ($398) are on my wish list. They are sophisticated and demure. Best part: you can flip the earring and wear it as a solid gold hoop. Genius!

$$: The Elise Earrings from Mon Été ($80) elevate the standard pearl with the knot detail. Perfection.

$: These Double Circle Ear Jacket Earrings from Etsy ($42) are a unique take on a hoop. You can select silver, gold or rose gold.

Make it a complete gift with a jewelry dish. I love the marble trinket tray from West Elm ($59), this soap dish ($47) in a gorgeous green that can double as a place for jewelry, or this unique irregular cloud tray from Etsy ($18)

My local go-to for everyone

I don't live in a big city where I can pop into a dozen different stores in one afternoon for gifts. But I'm also not in the middle of nowhere. I'm lucky to have some amazing locally owned shops nearby, and trust me—I visit them often. One of my absolute favorites is Breathe at Home . It's my go-to for birthday gifts and little pick-me-ups when I need a mood boost. And their holiday decor? Chef's kiss.

Here are my current obsessions (and they can all be found online).

For the entertainer: These glass candlesticks ($24-$45) come in so many different shapes and colors that it is honestly hard to choose. Here’s what I know for sure. They will instantly make any tablescape or mantlescape (is that even a word?) feel happy, special and inviting.

For young kids: It was love at first sight for the Jellycat Clyde Capybara ($50). I’ll admit, I had to Google what a capybara actually was. They're known as gentle giants, which makes this stuffie even more perfect.

For her (or him): Remember when I talked about the Patchology eye gels here? This is the store where I get them! At $3 for a set of two, they are perfect for a Friday night in. Or really any night.

For him (or her): Okay, this might be stereotyping a bit, but in my house, my husband is always the one getting the fire pit going. These color fire sticks ($20) take an outdoor fire from ordinary to extraordinary. My oldest son and his roommates have a lot of outdoor fires, so I’m definitely picking some up for them.

For anyone: Legally Addictive the OG ($12) is hands down the best snack. And yes, it absolutely lives up to its name. It’s salty, sweet, and chocolatey with just the right amount of crunch. I can’t believe these aren’t on the shelves of every grocery store.

For teen boys: Complex Presents: Sneaker of the Year ($35). Any sneakerhead will appreciate this book. Beautiful photography, and it tells the story of sneaker culture starting with the Air Jordans, of course.

For teen girls: Lanolips Hyaluronic Lip Oil ($17) is always a hit. Hydrate and look good at the same time.

For the holidays: Enameled Cocktail Shaker ($48) has my heart. Yes, it’s use is limited, but think how great it would look on a cocktail cart. It would also make a great gift with this book or these candy cane swizzle sticks. Perfection.

Trends come and go, but a good tote is forever.

Have you seen those TikToks about how much women can carry in their hands? If not, check it out here. It’s impressive. For the rest of us mere mortals, I have rounded up six excellent tote bags to help carry the load and look good while doing it.

L.L. Bean Leather Trimmed Waxed Canvas Tote ($129) – L.L. Bean is famous for their classic boat tote, and while the original is iconic, I'm partial to this elevated version with leather straps. The waxed canvas that develops a lovely patina with age is also a nice touch.

Alex Mill Perfect Weekday Tote ($175) – I have been stalking this bag for months. I love the bright color options and modern monogramming. It looks sturdy but not stiff, and I appreciate the double strap option and snap closures to keep your goodies from falling out.

Sea Bags Medium Tote ($175-$230) – I’ve had my vintage tote (shown below) for years, and it makes me feel like I’m ready to set sail off the coast of Newport, RI. Hey, a girl can dream! Not only do I love my Sea Bags (full disclosure: I also have a wristlet and a ditty bag), but their story is pretty amazing. Every bag is made in Maine from recycled sails.

Ann Mashburn Zoe Leather Tote ($695) – Another bag I've been stalking. (Yes, I have a problem.) But honestly? No notes. This style and color is absolute perfection. You could wear sweats with this bag and still look put together. It’s one of those confidence-boosting pieces that says, “I have my shit together” even when you don’t.

Cuyana Classic Easy Tote ($278) – I have a friend who has this bag and loves it. I get it. The leather is soft and buttery. Like the Alex Mill tote, it features double straps for carrying flexibility. Cuyana offers multiple colors, though I think they are missing the rich brown color like the Ann Mashburn tote.

Longchamp Le Pliage Tote Bag ($165) - You see this bag everywhere and probably for good reason. I'll admit, I've never been tempted to buy one myself, but this brick orange color might just change my mind.

Little Things Can Make a Big Difference.

Who isn't feeling stressed right now—especially as we head into the holiday season? For me, the stress is coming from all directions. For starters, the business I worked for is shutting down, so now I'm starting over instead of heading toward the finish line in my career. I also have a parent with dementia, and I constantly feel like I'm not doing enough while simultaneously feeling overwhelmed. And let's not forget living with a teenage boy (need I say more?). Needless to say, my emotional state is all over the place.

Know someone who's stressed out like me? Send them a quick note letting them know you're thinking of them. That alone can mean a lot. Want to go a step further? Here are some gifts that either brought me comfort when I needed it or things I sent to people when they needed a lift.

Squeeze out the stress: Speks Gump Memory Gel Stress Ball ($8 for original) comes in happy colors and they are just fun and satisfying to squeeze. It’s great for someone who needs to relax or tends to fidget. Besides multiple color options, you can choose a mini 6-pack, original 3-pack, and jumbo size (for when you are really stressed). At under $10, pick one up for yourself as well!

Danish design that makes you smile: The Hoptimist ($25) was born from the late '60s happy movement. Its clean design helps it fit in anywhere within your house.. This bouncy figurine just makes me smile. It sits on my desk and gives me a little bounce to keep going and get through difficult tasks. The Hoptimist comes in four colors: green, blue, red, or classic yellow.

A soft and snuggly hug: When you give a reassuring hug in person, a Barefoot Dreams throw (starting at $158) is an excellent stand in. I received one from a dear friend a few years ago and it is the blanket everyone in my house fights over when we watch a movie. It’s so soft and it doesn’t pill. It’s one of my favorite things.

A face that sparks joy: The Face Carafe Vessel from Coming Soon NY ($65) is a glass vase with a unique hand-painted face. This item can pull double duty as a wine carafe, so pair it with either flowers or wine for a nice pick-me-up.

Words to live by (literally): I saw this poster on House Beautiful’s Instagram feed and I think it is a nice-looking reminder that we're doing what we can. This poster is reasonably priced ($14-34 depending on the size), and you can pick up a simple black frame at Michael's or Hobby Lobby to make it ready to hang.

How to impress a discerning audience.

Teens are a tough audience. I’m sweating just writing about them. Shopping for them without a list can feel like you are walking through a minefield. They want something cool but not trying-too-hard cool. No pressure!

While cold hard cash never goes out of style, here are seven gifts that have actually impressed my hard-to-please teens.

The Lego Polaroid Camera ($80) – Okay, so teens may not know what actual film is, but somehow this throwback has become totally cool again. Go figure.

A Record Player ($249-369) – Nothing says "I'm effortlessly cool" like spinning vinyl. I got my older son a record player and a subscription to Vinyl Me, Please (VMP) a few years back, and he loved it. Fair warning though – VMP hit some rough patches and recently got acquired by VNYL. The new owners promise they're bringing it back to its glory days, but we'll see.

The Dylan Striped Bean Bag Chair ($249) – This isn't your little kid's bean bag. It's so stylish I'd honestly put it in our family room. Just a heads up – it doesn't ship until mid-November, so it’s perfect for holiday gifting!

JBL Portable Speaker ($130) – This was hands down one of the best pre-college gifts I gave my oldest. Four years later, it's still going strong and delivers great sound. If you’re interested in something smaller and less expensive, the JBL Go 3 is a solid choice for $40.

Bokksu Snack Box ($40 for one month) – I have a teenage son, and snacks don’t last long in our house. Remember the Friends episode when Ross says, “I grew up with Monica. If you didn’t eat fast, you didn’t eat.” That’s how my husband and I feel. Bokksu Snack Box lets them discover plenty of treats from Japan (and right now, 6- or 12-month subscriptions won't cost extra due to tariffs) . Universal Yums is another option where you can pick snacks from the UK, Greece, South Korea, or Mexico. A Yum Box with 5-7 snacks runs $29 for a one-month subscription.

Tayto Potato Light ($22) – An affordable way to add a little quirky accessory. Perfect for when they want to chill without harsh overhead lights.

NYC Trash Can Pen Holder ($48) – Yes, it's a little pricey for a pen holder, in my opinion. But, it looks so cool and is definitely not something you will see in a typical teen room. Throw in some pencils with funny "first world problem" messages like "OMG, the Chipotle line is soooo long" and you've got yourself a unique and funny gift.

These advent calendars are worth the hype and the price.

I don’t love that I am bringing up the holidays when It's still September and the leaves are barely changing colors. But here's the thing: good advent calendars sell out faster than Taylor Swift tickets. The fancy Harrods beauty calendars? Gone during pre-sales. Even Trader Joe's $1.49 calendars vanish quickly. If you want a really good one, you need to start planning now.

You can easily go down an advent calendar rabbit hole since there is a calendar for pretty much everything. I saw an advent calendar for Sour Patch Kids. What???? Luckily I have gone down the rabbit hole for you and put together a curated list of truly great advent calendars that are worth your money. (Sour Patch Kid advent calendar not included.)

Adult Beverage Advent Calendars:

• For wine lovers. The In Good Taste Wine Advent Calendar ($149) delivers 24 mini bottles of wine. You can choose from red and white wines, just reds, or white and rosé options. Feeling extra generous? They've got a luxury version for $249 for the wine snob connoisseur. You can order now, and calendars ship in October.

  If you want something a bit more curated, Vinebox’s 12-nights of wine ($129) is another choice, but it is primarily geared for one person. 100ml isn’t really shareable. The Bold Collection includes nine red and three white wines. The Bright Collection includes a mix of red, white and rosé wines. You can order now and calendars ship mid-October.

• Whiskey enthusiasts, listen up. The Flaviar Whiskey Advent Calendar ($260) is the real deal. My parents got this last year and they really enjoyed their tasting each night. You get 24 glass vials of whiskey samples, two collectible glasses, and a one-year black membership. Pre-orders are live and they start shipping in September, so don't sleep on this one.

• More of a beer person? I got you. While there are a lot of beer advent calendar options, my advice is to check with a local brewery first. Supporting local businesses always feels good. If that's not an option, hit up the grocery store and create your own sampler pack. This allows you to weed out any styles of beer that you know someone may not like.

  If you want simplicity (and who doesn’t), pre-orders of Give Them Beer 12-days of beer advent calendar($85) is happening now.

Non-Alcoholic Beverage Advent Calendars:

• For my sober-curious and non-drinking friends. I'd recommend sticking with non-alcoholic beer over the canned mocktails. Why? Because some mocktails can taste artificial and downright funky, while NA beer tends to be more consistent. My husband and I tried the NA Beer Club last year and we were genuinely impressed with the variety. Their advent calendar offers 24 beers for $119.

• For those who need their morning coffee. Onyx Coffee Lab’s advent calendar is highly touted. You receive about 2 oz. of whole coffee beans which equals about 24 oz of brewed coffee. Their 2025 calendar is not live yet, but their 2024 calendar was $189.

  If you know someone who is obsessed with their Keurig, you can pre-order the 24-cups of cheer advent calendar ($29.99).

• Prefer tea over coffee? No problem. Personally, I’m not a tea person, but David’s Tea 24 trips with tea advent calendar ($69) is highly rated and is included on multiple “best of” lists. This calendar offers two 8 oz servings each day. There is a variety of tea flavors and all of them are certified organic. They also offer a 12-nights of herbal tea option ($49).

Beauty Advent Calendars:

• Primp from head to toe. There are two great options that include an array of products from buzzy brands. The Anthropologie 24 days of beauty calendar ($98) Includes travel size goodies from Salt & Stone, Caudalie, L’Occitane, Supergoop, Tocca, Patchology and more. Revolve’s beauty advent calendar ($150 in 2024) is the grand poo-bah with travel and full size products from brands like Charlotte Tilbury, Benefit, Salt & Stone, Summer Friday’s and more. Revolve’s calendar is not on sale yet. I don’t recommend waiting to add either of these (or both) to your shopping cart.

Food Advent Calendars:

• For those with a sweet tooth. My go-to for the past two years is the Sugarfina Advent Calendar ($60). It always has a cute design and you can’t beat the array of sweets, such as sugar cookies, caramels, cookie dough bites, sours and more.

  A slightly more expensive option is the See’s Candies Advent Calendar ($80). Cute design and lots of chocolate, including dark peppermint patty, dark marshmallow tree, milk butterscotch square, cafe latte krispies and more. You can pre-order now and calendars ship in November.

• Prefer salty snacks? Oh yeah. Sugar Plum’s 12-days of gourmet nuts advent calendar ($55) is a great option for those who like salty snacks and don’t have a nut allergy. It includes 12 tins of items like honey sea salt almonds, tap room mix, cajun cashews and more.

• Better than jelly of the month club. I will admit jellies are not my jam (pun intended). For those of you who love jams and spreads, the Bonne Maman advent calendar ($55) is the real deal. Flavors like blueberry and maple syrup sound good enough for me to even try.

Non-Food or Drink Advent Calendars:

• Socks don’t have to be a bad gift. Socks aren’t something I actively go out and buy, but I definitely would turn away receiving fun and colorful socks. Happy Socks delivers 24-crew socks ($104) in different colors and designs. They even have a Beatles edition.

• You love a challenge. This unique advent calendar by Thigreact ($22) includes 17 wooden puzzles and 7 metal puzzles. Each puzzle requires a different solution. This can keep someone busy during the holiday season.

These advent calendars won’t stick around. They are an early investment in future holiday joy. Trust me, your future December self will thank you for acting now.

Turn your shower into a sanctuary.

Self-care is important, especially when we are juggling work, home, kids, aging parents, friendships, and don’t forget about walking the dog. For me, stepping into a hot shower is my moment of zen where I can (temporarily) wash off the stress. Of course I don’t usually get the bathroom to myself. My dog Winnie is always there to lick any residual water.

Here are my top items to help you create your own bathroom oasis.

Create the mood. If you can get your hands on fresh eucalyptus, hang it in your shower. The steam helps release the essential oils to create a fresh and invigorating scent. This video is a great how-to guide.

If you can’t find fresh eucalyptus or you don’t have room for it in your shower, try these candles to set the mood. Big Sur After Rain from D.S. & Durga ($70) has woody, eucalyptus notes. Eucalyptus and White Sage from Voluspa ($38) is a more budget-friendly option.

Wash away the stress. Body wash is a small luxury you can enjoy every time you step into the shower. You’re worth it! I’m currently obsessed with L’Occitane Almond Shower Oil ($48). It has a subtle scent and more importantly, your skin feels nourished without feeling oily.

If you are looking for something a little cheaper, Dove Deep Body Moisture Body Wash ($7.99) is a solid choice for the price.

Scrub up well (but only 1-2x a week). The choice of a sugar or salt scrub depends on feeling. Salt scrubs tend to be grittier and more abrasive while sugar scrubs have a smaller grit and are more gentle. If you don’t mind the grit, I like Shore Soap Company’s Warm Sand Body Polish ($32). It reminds me of Watch Hill, Rhode Island, and I like that their scents are natural and nautical.

I was very skeptical about Tree Hut’s Shea Sugar Scrub ($7). They are included a lot of “best of” lists, but I was suspicious given they have a ton of scent options. Are they overcompensating for something? Last weekend, I picked one up at Target and gave it a whirl. I tried Palm Grove and was impressed. I like that it has a gel-like texture, which means you don’t lose half of the scrub when it falls through your fingers. It left my skin feeling soft and smooth. Plus, this particular scent was not overwhelming or fake. I’d give it a try the next time you are at Target.

Team loofah or team no loofah? I don’t love those loofah balls you find in drugstores. They are basically little bacteria breeding grounds. I recently tried a silicone loofah from the grocery store and would rather take my chances with the bacteria loofah balls.

When I was ordering some Hanni Splash Salve, I decided to try their Shower Scarf ($16). This scarf doesn’t leave your skin feeling raw and because it is long, you can reach your whole back! It’s also more open than the loofah balls, so less risk of bacteria build up.

Make sure your skin says “ahhh.” I love using the Hanni Splash Salve in the shower. I’ve talked about it in this post.

If I decide to go the post-shower moisturizer route, CeraVe Cream ($16 for 16 oz) is a classic go-to. Simple yet effective. For a treat, I love Sol de Janeiro Bum Bum Cream ($12 for 25 ml). And yes, it can be used all over—not just your bum bum. It’s a light firming lotion with an almond and caramel scent. Dreamy.

With just a few items, you can help create a little namaste right in your bathroom. Your stressed-out self will thank you.

Gifts that go beyond the jersey.

Football season is here, and you know what that means. It’s time to bring out your team gear, devour tons of chips and dips, and obsess over what Taylor Swift will wear to the next Chiefs game.

Football fans likely have the team basics. The jersey? Check. Multiple team t-shirts? Double check. I'll never forget the Christmas my mother-in-law went all in on Buffalo Bills themed gifts for my husband. There was a Bills shirt, Bills mug, and even a Bills desk calendar.

It got me thinking. What do you give the fan who already has every piece of team merchandise?

A grown-up version of the football poster. My husband once got a framed picture of a Red Sox/Yankees brawl. Needless to say, it never made it into the house (it currently resides in the garage). I recently came across Timeless Patents. They sell sophisticated, vintage patent posters featuring original patents for the football, the cleat, the field goal and helmet. My personal favorite is the original football patent.

Game on the go. Going retro is trendy these days. The Mattel Classic Handheld Football Game is a great way to embrace the retro vibe and have fun. This is what video games were like back in the day. Simple noises, basic (and I mean basic) graphics and just a lot of fun. This game is surprisingly addictive. You can find a new one on Amazon or you can hunt for older versions on eBay if you want that authentic feel.

Let them create. Did you know that several NFL players, including Caleb Williams, are huge Lego fans? Apparently, building sets is their go-to way to unwind and tap into their creative side. While Lego doesn't make official NFL sets, FOCO has sets where you can build team footballs, jerseys, helmets, and even entire stadiums. This could be a great gift for someone who needs to relax after a crushing loss or a bad season (hint, hint Dolphins fans).

Game time with a twist. Sure, you can buy them a football (which they likely already have) or a flag football set, but here’s an option that goes a little rogue. Give them a game that lets them test their accuracy by throwing a rubber chicken. Yes, you read that correctly. Flickin' Chicken is a hilarious and fun game that would be perfect for tailgating. Honestly, I'd bet even Tom Brady would struggle with this one.

Create an experience. If season tickets aren't in the budget (and let's be real, they rarely are), why not bring the stadium experience home? An outdoor projector can transform any backyard into your personal football viewing paradise (weather permitting). This Nebula outdoor projector is highly recommended by CNET and Wirecutter. Pair it with this screen or even a good white sheet.

Now go Bills! 🏈

Games I have played, lost, but still love.

As summer starts to fade into fall, I like to make the most of my outdoor time and try to finally win a game against my husband. I think it says something if you continually lose and still want to play the games you never win. Does it say that I am crazy? Probably.

Here are my top four tried-and-true picks for games that actually work for the whole family. No athletic prowess required, and definitely none of that intense Spikeball nonsense.

The obvious champion. Cornhole is on every outdoor game list for a reason - it’s a classic. Plus, any game that lets you hold a cold drink in one hand while you play? That's just smart design.

Cornhole boards are an investment, but it is a gift that endures. We got our cornhole boards from L.L. Bean about 10 years ago and they still look great after countless family tournaments. This great retro striped one is marked down from $345 to $295. If you want to go all out, this gorgeous Elakai set is $349.

Carnival vibes, backyard style. Don’t let the simplicity fool you. Ring toss ($59.99) is addictive, doesn’t take up space in your garage, and is easy to assemble. Add a silly prize for the game winner and suddenly you’ve got carnival magic without the overpriced funnel cake.

If you are interested in a wall ring toss game, this one can be mounted indoors or outdoors. We had a mounted ring toss game on a tree for a while. My oldest son nailed it on the first try. Me? Not so much. Absolutely maddening.

Skip the country club fees. You can create your own 3-hole course right in your yard. The Bucketgolf 3-hole game set ($199) includes three bucket holes, whiffle balls and a retractable golf club. The best part? You don’t need to know a birdie from a bogey to have fun.

Wild card game. I discovered the game of Stump during parents’ weekend at the University of Dayton. Dayton wasn’t ranked #2 party school by The Wall Street Journal for nothing. While it definitely can be a drinking game, it's equally entertaining sober. All you need is a tree stump, nails and a hammer. This video gives you a good idea of how to play.

Honorable mentions:

• Chickin' Lickin': I've mentioned this one before—still love it.

• Pickleball: Super fun but too much family drama about whether shots are "in" or "out" when you don't have actual court lines marked off in our driveway.

• Ladder Golf: Solid choice, but I like Bucketgolf better.

• Giant Jenga: Shows up on every list, but I purposefully didn't include it because of its bulky size. Who has room in the garage for that?

Your guide to edible gifting.

Food is my love language, so it is definitely a go-to when I’m gift giving. I love that it creates an experience and is relatively easy for the gift giver. The secret to successful food gifting? Know your audience. You wouldn't send lobster to someone who's mentioned they don't love seafood, right?

Here are my tried-and-true food gifts. Let's start with the sweet stuff.

• Japanese Kit Kats: A flavor adventure. Last Christmas, I gave both my boys a 60-piece Japan Kit Kat Variety Pack and it was a hit. My boys (ages 22 and 16) loved trying different flavors, such as cheesecake, pistachio, and matcha. It’s a great gift for teens or those who enjoy culinary adventures.

• A no-cake birthday tradition. For the past four years, my oldest has been away at college for his birthday. Instead of trying to bake and ship a cake, I send him a four-pack of edible cookie dough. They have lots of different flavors to choose from and they also offer vegan and gluten-free options.

• Art you can eat. I ordered these gorgeous chocolates from Richart for my team. They're like little works of art that are almost too pretty to eat. Almost.

  I also just ordered a build your own box of these bonbons to thank a dear friend for watching one of our dogs. These chocolates look like marbles. They were a huge hit and lasted one day. Flavors include bourbon maple pecan, dulce de leche, liquid salted caramel, mint chocolate cookie, and more. They offer nut-free, gluten-free and vegan options.

• A healthy sweet option. For something a little different, consider a Maui Gold pineapple. Maui Gold pineapples are considered the “gold” standard because of their perfect balance of acid and sugar. Plus pineapples symbolize friendship and generosity, making them an even more meaningful gift.

I’m someone who prefers salty over sweet so these savory gifts are right in my wheelhouse.

• Charcuterie never disappoints. My husband has figured out the secret to my heart is through charcuterie boards. We will order boards from our local vendor, Cheese and Charcuterie, for a date night versus going out to a restaurant. I've also shipped their DIY boards across the country and I've never heard a single complaint.

• The ocean delivered to your door. Back when my husband and I would go to a Red Sox game in Boston, we’d always eat at Island Creek Oyster Bar near Fenway. They closed that location, but they ship fresh seafood right to your door. I sent oysters to family in California and they couldn't believe how incredible they were.

• Say “¡Delicioso!”. I recently sent my dad La Tienda's Deluxe Tapas Starter Sampler for Father's Day. This box included chorizo sausage, stuffed olives, dark chocolate fig bonbons, olive oil potato chips, Marcona almonds, and more. My mouth is watering just thinking about it.

• Another birthday tradition. In addition to the edible cookie dough, I also send my son the Gramercy Tavern Burger 4-pack. This isn't just any burger. We're talking a 70/30 chuck and brisket blend with bacon, smoked aioli, aged cheddar, and the most perfect bun. Everything arrives ready to create a restaurant-quality experience at home.

Food gifts work because they are personal and memorable. So next time you're stumped about what to give someone, remember: food is love…delivered.

The most calming shopping experience in LA.

When I was in LA last summer, the Tortoise General Store in Venice was at the top of my must-visit list. After reading countless rave reviews, I had to experience it myself—and it completely lived up to the hype.

The moment you step inside, there's this instant sense of calm. The space is thoughtfully curated, which feels rare these days. (I’m looking at you, HomeGoods.)

With limited luggage space, I bought three Kokeshi dolls, also known as the Japanese Barbie doll. Those dolls became my favorite LA souvenir, and I've ordered more since then. Zero regrets.

Current Obsessions (and I want them all):

• Kokeshi Dolls (starting at $10)
  I'm still completely obsessed with these. Each one has its own personality.

• Classic Casio Watches (starting at $22)
  Sure, they won't count your steps or buzz with notifications, but there's something refreshing about a watch that just tells time.

• Tenugui Cotton Cloths ($16)
  These Japanese cloths come in the most gorgeous colors and patterns. I dare you to not find at least one you love. I love this watermelon design—perfect for summer.

• Tembea Market Tote ($300)
  This is an investment piece made for farmers market hauls and weekend adventures.

• Takizawa Plywood Koishi Paperweights ($45)
  They look like smooth stones, but they're "paper wood." A clever design trick that is perfect for your desk or styled on a coffee table book stack.

• Iron Tool Bottle Opener ($22)
  How fun would it be to pull this out at your next BBQ?

• Tajika Herb Scissors ($78)
  Beautiful, functional, and totally unique. Bundle these with some fresh herb plants and you’ve got yourself a good gift!

Can't make it to Venice, CA? Their website is just as addictive as the physical store.

How to transform a questionable gift Into something special.

We've all been there. You receive a beautifully wrapped…bar of soap. Your smile freezes and your brain starts spinning. Do they think eucalyptus is my scent? Do I come off tense, hence the lavender? Or worse, was this a gentle hint that I need to upgrade my hygiene routine?

Let's be honest about why soap often misses the mark. It can feel deeply impersonal because choosing a scent is incredibly personal. Even those gorgeous $30 artisanal bars can fall flat if the recipient secretly hates patchouli. No matter how pure the intention or how Instagram-worthy the packaging, soap has this unfortunate superpower of sending completely unintended messages. And as a standalone gift? It just feels...lacking.

I don’t recommend soap as a gift. There, I said it. But I recently saw these lemon soaps that looked like real lemons. It got me thinking. Instead of soap being the awkward gift everyone politely accepts, what if it became the clever surprise element?

Challenge accepted.

Enter the Bee’s Knees Cocktail Gift. What? Have I already started drinking? Stay with me on this one. This is where soap gets a glow up.

1. The inspiration. Look above at the picture of that gorgeous lemon from Rennes. It’s not a real lemon! It’s soap. While they obviously can't go into the actual cocktail, the visual impact of seeing these perfect "lemons" nestled among real ones creates that delightful "wait, what?" moment.

2. The ingredients. Add high quality honey like this one, a solid gin—Plymouth is always my go-to—and plenty of real lemons to complete the illusion. Don’t forget the Bee’s Knees cocktail recipe. This one from Food & Wine is a good one.

3. The grand finale. Finish this cocktail gift with a couple of lovely coupe glasses or this lemon cocktail shaker from Anthropologie.

See? Soap doesn't have to be the gift that makes people wonder what you really think of them. Sometimes it just needs the right supporting cast to become memorable.

P.S. If you think my lemon cocktail theme is a bit wacky, check out this lemon themed wedding from Wisteria Flowers & Gifts. Lemon soaps could have worked as a guest gift option.

I stopped bringing wine to parties. Here’s what I bring instead.

We've all been there—walking into a party with flowers or a bottle of wine, knowing half the other guests probably brought the same thing. Showing up with something is always better than showing up empty- handed, but here's the thing about hosting. It’s freaking exhausting! Hosts deserve something more thoughtful than the usual gift suspects.

So here's what I've learned works, based on years of both hosting and being a guest:

1. Permission to Pamper. By the time guests arrive, the host has been on their feet for hours getting everything ready. A little post-party pampering can go a long way. I love giving (and let’s be honest—receiving) Patchology foot masks. They're perfect for unwinding after a long day of hosting. Pro tip: buy these in bulk so you always have them ready to give to others or yourself.

2. Think future forward. You know what nobody talks about? The morning after hosting. There's the aftermath to clean up, zero energy to make breakfast, and let’s not forget there may be a mild hangover. I started showing up to parties with fresh orange juice and muffins or scones. Trust me, your host will want to hug you when they're staring at their empty fridge the next morning. If you're feeling ambitious, try these cheddar cream scones. They are simple to make since everything goes in the food processor.

3. Ready to serve. I love Falcon enamelware, but I don’t love that it might cost you more to ship from the UK based on recent trade regulations. This tray from Crow Canyon Home is a more budget-friendly option. I like to pair the tray with BBQ rubs as a gift for the chef or grill master.

4. The gift that keeps on giving. I never buy nice dish towels for myself. I just keep using the same ratty ones until they're basically disintegrating. So when someone brings me dish towels like this or this, I'm genuinely thrilled.

5. A plant that endures. Flowers wilt and die in a few days, leaving the host with another thing to clean up. I prefer succulents because they are almost impossible to kill. I found this simple square succulent planter from Terrain that looks chic anywhere. If you want something with more personality, place a succulent in this adorable face planter.

Gifts for a state-side Italian summer.

I'll be honest with you, all those sun-soaked vacation photos from Italy are giving me major FOMO. While I'm sitting here in front of a fan waiting for the AC repair guy, I’m dreaming of cobblestone streets and gelato. So if your summer travel plans don't include a European adventure, The Weekly Selection can help bring a little Italy to your home.

1. Embrace the coffee culture. Italians don't just drink coffee. They experience it. These arty espresso tumblers from Revol (yes, they are made in France) can help make every sip feel a little more special. Stand at your kitchen counter, drink your espresso quickly like the Italians do, and pretend you're in Trastevere.

2. Eat like the Romans. Not all pasta is created equal, and I'm about to blow your mind. Great pasta can come from Northwest Arkansas. Yes, you read that correctly. Zelli pasta is made from organic durum semolina, extruded using bronze dies, which creates a rougher surface that helps sauce cling to every noodle, and then it’s air-dried for a nutty flavor. Cook it al dente, toss it with your favorite sauce and some pecorino, and suddenly you feel like you’re having a meal in Rome.

3. Sardines are having a moment. I’m not going out of my way to eat them, but I do love their packaging. Check out the packaging for Jose Gourmet sardines. It’s like having tiny pieces of art in your pantry. If you aren’t quite ready for tinned fish (and I don’t blame you), this gorgeous sardine artwork is a fun, colorful way to bring fish into your home. Sardines have even made it into jewelry. This charm from Mociun is adorable, but a little pricey.

When hot flashes collide with heat waves.

It’s summer and for women of a certain age, summer can be murderous. One minute you are enjoying the sunshine and the next you are putting your head in the freezer. I never thought I would wish for winter. Can you relate?

While I wait for cooler temperatures, here are The Weekly Selection’s go-to items to help make summer bearable.

1. Stay cool on the go. I have a rechargeable portable fan, but it’s clunky to carry around. This entertaining hand fan from Etsy can easily slip into your bag. Plus, the message is everything.

2. Hydrate your skin. We are sweating buckets and ironically our skin is losing moisture. It’s cruel! Hanni Splash Salve is my secret weapon. This in-shower treatment leaves your skin beautifully hydrated and there is no need to use an after-shower lotion. It’s a time saver when you are already running late because you had to change after yet another hot flash.

3. Escape from reality. Sometimes we need a good laugh to keep from crying. “Sandwich” from Catherine Newman delivers just that. This quick read captures the chaos of your 50s—menopause, aging parents, and the evolving relationships with your kids. It's laugh-out-loud funny.

4. Let’s talk about chafing. I know nobody wants to discuss this, but we all know it happens. Years of soccer have given me athletic thighs that don't exactly love the summer heat. Megababe Thigh Rescue has been my holy grail. It's lightweight and comes in a travel size for those times when you need emergency reinforcement.

5. Embrace the mood. I’m a sucker for funny cocktail napkins. These capture my general vibe. If this is your vibe as well, follow Melani Sanders’ “We do not care” movement. It’s spot on.