Christmas Gift Ideas: Dwell by Cheryl Favorite Things

The Christmas madness has officially begun!  I can't even say I've been caught up in it really.  I've been so focused on the upcoming weekend's client project install that I've barely even thought of Christmas.  I'm known for going a little overboard when it comes to Christmas decor, but this year, it's been all I could do to get the main tree up in the living room. I've been trying to photograph it for weeks, but I can never seem to be home during the daylight. 

 

Oh well! This is the best I could do. 

 

 

Hopefully, you've made a little more progress than I have. 

 

Today I thought I'd round up some of my favorite  gifts from Christmas' past.  I'm always impressed by those gifts that just seem to strike a chord with you.  Sometimes it's their functionality and other times it's because they're sentimental, but whatever the case, some gifts just have staying power.  Below are a few of my favs for various reasons.  Some were actually on my Christmas list when I received them and a few are items I never would've purchased for myself.  However, what they have in common is the fact that I love and use them all.

 

1. Barefoot Dreams Robe - This robe is the robe of all robes.  It's the epitome of comfort.  No, it ain't cute, but what it lacks in beauty, it makes up for in comfort.  I LOVE THIS ROBE!

2. Extra Large Zip Top Tote - This is the hardest working tote I've ever seen.  There would be no install day without this bag.  It holds ALL of my tools and install essentials.  When you see this bag coming, you know I mean business. 

3. African Banana Fiber Angel Ornaments Some ornaments are just special and these angels are among my favorites.  I usually forget I have them, until I reach down in the bottom of the Christmas bin and discover them.  I'm always excited to add them to the tree.

4. "I Love to Blog" Silver Charm- I have an old school charm bracelet and while I don't wear it often, it's one of my favorite pieces of jewelry.  I love receiving meaningful charms to add to it.  It's like having my life's story wrapped around my wrist.

5. Silver Friendship Ball- I have had this ball for years.  Too many to count.  My friend and I pass it back and forth each year (except when we forget) and I love that it's a symbol of our friendship that dates back all they way to middle school. 

6. Chandelier Night Light - This little nightlight had me at practical and pretty.  It seems silly to be on my list, but I use this light every single night in my guest bath and if it's not on, I actually notice.  It's the little things.

7. Apple Ipad- I mean, need we say more?

My goal with gift giving is to give gifts that will last the test of time.  Whether it's a sentimental gift or a useful one, I want the recipient to see/use their gift and think of me. 

What tops your all time fav Christmas gift list? 

See more of my favorite things HERE.

Friday Find: "The Nesting Place"

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving.  I was blessed to be able to spend it at home in Mississippi with my family.  There's nothing like hanging out at home, eating good food, shopping and relaxing.  Love it! 

On the flight home, I intentionally brought with me two new design books I've been waiting to dive into.  There's nothing like the solace found at 30,000 feet to take in a good book.  I couldn't wait to board so I could get started. 

via Nesting Place

The first was the ever popular, "The Nesting Place" by The Nester (a.k.a. Myquillyn Smith).  I had heard great things about it, but had no idea that it would be such a page turner.  I was immediately sucked into Myquillyn's journey, and what a journey it's been.  There are so many parts of the book that resonate with me, but more than any, the section entitled "It's Time to Stop Apologizing" stopped me dead in my tracks.  She outlines an experience where she visited a neighbor's beautiful home and the neighbor proceeds to make a number of apologies for unapparent  "flaws" in her home.  She's shares the fact that she never even noticed the "flaws" until they were pointed out and admitted that it made her feel that if this lovely home wasn't good enough, then her home certainly wasn't either.

She says, "..I realized that when I apologize for my home, I'm declaring to all within earshot that I'm not content.  That I'm silently keeping score. That I put great importance on the appearance of my home and maybe, just maybe, I'm doing that when I visit your home too."

Ouch! I immediately closed the book and began to repent, because I know I've done the exact same thing on more than a few occasions. Certainly not because I'm ungrateful, but more likely because I'm a perfectionist, especially when it comes to design.   Honestly,  I've never given a second thought to how my feelings about my home's current state might make my guests feel.    Isn't it amazing how oblivious we can be?

There were several other concepts in the book that I loved like:

1. Quieting the Room
2. Giving Up on Perfect
3. Embracing the True Purpose of Your Home.

I can't say enough great things about this book.  It's the perfect gift for the design lover's on your list.
 

 

In fact, I'm about to go curl up with a glass of wine and a blanket and finish this one off.

You can purchase it HERE.  Until next time...

The Gifter: Holiday Gift Ideas Under $10!

Hope you guys had a great weekend.  It's amazing that it's already the second week in December and Christmas is literally right around the corner. If you're anything like me, you've still not made a dent in the Christmas shopping yet.  Never fear!  I've rounded up some great budget options for everyone on your list. 

Have you guys been to TJ Maxx, Marshall's or Home Goods lately?  Have you seen the new "The Gifter" commercials?  Well, they've stepped it up and their stores are PACKED with awesome gifts.  I've been watching some of my blogger friends round up some great options and I thought I'd do the same for you.  However, being the budget-focused blogger that I am, I've decided to only include items that are less than $10.  Yep, $10! Let's face it, $20 gifts can add up, quick.  Before you know it you've well exceeded your holiday budget. You'd be surprised what great things you can find for less than $10 at the three stores I affectionately refer to as the shopping trinity.

Here goes...

1. Know anyone who just decked out a bar (hint, hint)?  These gold monogrammed coasters are spot on.  The perfect $4.99 hostess gift.

2. I'm obsessed with these beautiful ceramic microwavable bowls.  The plastic lid is even vented.  The smallest one is priced at only $2.99 and I almost walked away with the largest one in a beautiful blue, black and white print for $7.99.  Beautiful and functional.  Love these!!

3. Who doesn't love Philosophy?  They produce such great quality bath products and I love the seasonal options they make each year.  These small bottles were only $4.99.  At that price, you could pick up a duo.

4.  I have no words for how much I love these sweet cream and sugar servers.  Brace yourself, these were just $2.99 each. 

5.  Know anyone traveling this holiday? These neck pillows were great and they look way better than the one's sold in the airport for much more. 

6.  These little ice bags were just precious.  Couple one with a pack of fun adhesive bandages and you'll have a kid dying for a boo-boo.  : )

7.  The Sunday School teacher in me loved this box of Bible Origami.  A $10 gift that would be great for the kids in the family and they may just provide a few teachable moments for the whole family. 

8.  I've had my eye on these mice and cheese bookends for months.  They are now on clearance and such a conversation piece.

9.  I believe in the power of a handwritten note and these boxed note card sets are just the write "little something" gift for neighbors or coworkers. 

10.  Magnifying glasses have been making a big splash in design lately.  They had tons of options at my local store and several were priced at $7.99.  Design is in the details and one of these would be gorgeous atop a stack of beautiful coffee table books. 

11.  Most of us have at least one ornament exchange.  This boxed set included two beautiful ornaments.  I like the fact that these were special but not so specific.  They'd look great on just about any tree. 

12.  I'm all about a DIY project, but at $7.99, I don't know if I could make this chalkboard any cheaper.  Such a cute option for any room. 

I told you they'd stepped it up.  Can you believe all of those options are less than $10.  We've got no excuse now not to finish up that holiday shopping.

P.S.  No one paid me to publish this post, although I wish they had.  ; )  Have a great one!

Are your subscribed yet?  If not, it's easy.  Don't miss a post.  Have it delivered to your inbox!

Enter your email address:


Delivered by FeedBurner

Holiday Edible Gift Giving

Today, to kick of the holiday season, I've teamed up with my friend and fellow blogger Jennifer Burnham of Pure and Simple Organizing.  We thought we'd share a few quick and easy edible gifts to get you in the holiday gift giving season.  Needless to say, she handled the recipes and I was in charge of packaging.  I wanted to go super economical and use things that were readily available, so I made a quick trip to Dollar Tree.

 

via

Although I was packaging holiday gifts, I actually steered clear of the holiday merchandise.  Sometimes those items can read, well.... cheap.  I find it much better to rely on non-themed merchandise.  For example, these trays were in the wedding section. 

 

I love their versatility.   

I had this idea to turn them into small menu boards with chalkboard spray paint. I simply taped off the edges...

And gave them a quick spray.

It doesn't get much easier than that.  Add a plate stand and they make the perfect tabletop menu board.

 

For use in wrapping up Jennifer's sweet treats, they serve as great trays for Mint Chocolate "Grinch" Fudge Squares. Link for RECIPE.
 

A simple "mason" jar makes a great container for an Egg Nog Brownie Trifle. Link for RECIPE.

 

I gave the lid a spray and added the recipient's name. 

 

Edible gifts don't have to be complex, fancy or expensive.  It's the sentiment of a handmade gesture that makes it so super special. 

 

Remember to head over to the Pure and Simple Organizing blog for the recipes. 

'Dwell by Cheryl's 2012 Favorite Things"



With the holidays comes the challenge of gift giving.  For some it's a joy, for other not-so-much.   Today, I'd like to share with you some of my favorite things.  I mean, if Oprah can do it, why can't I? 

I compiled a listing of items that I either own or wish that I did.  Who knows, maybe they'll be perfect for someone on your gift list or for a little holiday treat for yourself.  Whatever the case, these gifts are Dwell by Cheryl approved.

 

 

 

 

 

2012 Favorite Things

The List and the Low Down

1.   Vera Bradley Ditty Bag- I don't leave town without this bag.  It's lined in vinyl which makes it super durable.  I'm on my third one. 

2.   Zagat Wine Club- I have always wanted to be in a wine club.  Not sure why I've never joined one, but if I did, I'd start with this great deal. 

3.   J. Crew Merino Wool Cardigan-  I'm not sure what it is about this sweater that I love, but its one  that I seem to reach for in the closet on the regular.  I have it in a pinkish purple and I love it.  It's the perfect sweater to dress up or down.

4.   Land's End Monogrammed Tote Bag- I received this bag last year from my little sister and I haven't stopped using it since.  It's filled with all my project essentials.  Best of all it's large enough to hold my drill, steamer, etc. and they come in various sizes.

5.   Forever 21 Statement Necklace- I love bling and a bargain and this necklace combines the two.  You can't beat Forever 21 for cute of-the-moment jewelry.  FYI: Just don't count on longevity.

6.   The Limited Infinity Scarf-  There's something cool (and warm) about an infinity scarf.  I've got several, but I love the lightweight look and feel of this one.

7.   House Beautiful Magazine Subscription- My magazines are like chocolate.  My treat at the end of a day.  House Beautiful is one of my favorites - obviously.

8.   Community Coffee Sampler-   My mom ships me this coffee all the way from home.  There's only one grocery store in my area that sells it (Bi-Lo), but it's often priced much higher here.  Well worth the shipping cost. 

9.   Slatkin & Co. 3-Wick Candle- One of the best affordable scented candles around.  The three wicks make the fragrance super strong. 

10.  Avon Bubble Bath-  I'm totally a bath person and I buy Avon bubble bath in bulk.  I love that the tall bottle last for months and bubbles like nobody's business.

Happy shopping!

Do you own any of my favorite things?  Tell me about it!  Simply click the words Click Here to Join the Conversation just below this post. Need help? Read this.

Also, I'm guest blogging again over at...
    

So, stop by and check it out!  Click HERE to read the post.