Must Have: Ban.do Rain or Shine Dottie Umbrella

Ban.Do Rain Or Shine Dottie Umbrella, $28

So despite what any song says, it's raining here in Southern California and, as is usually the case, I'm a bit unprepared. The chic, oversized, black and white striped umbrella I used to carry was stolen a few weeks ago, so I'm in desperate need of a new one. This one is so stinking adorable and girly, it's just perfect for me (did you see the heart-shaped handle?). Plus, I'm a huge fan of all things Ban.do so that makes it really perfect. 

3 Ways to Transform Store-Bought Cookies

With all the holiday parties and potlucks, a lot of baking goes down in December, and in particular, a lot of cookie baking (especially for those who look forward to a visit from a certain jolly old man). Homemade cookies are always lovely, but if you've no time to make them from scratch, here are a few suggestions for tweaking store-bought sugar or butter cookies to make them look and taste special enough for this, the most wonderful time of the year.

Dark Chocolate Peppermint

Dip top of cookie in melted dark chocolate, then sprinkle with crushed candy cane.

Dulce de Leche

Spread a thick layer of dulce de leche on the flat side of one cookie and cover with the flat side of another to create a sandwich.

White Chocolate with Pistachios

Dip half of the cookie in melted white chocolate, then sprinkle with coarsely chopped pistachios.

15 Fun Things to Do With the Kids in December

Coming up with new ways to keep your little ones entertained can seem an impossible task at times, so each month I will offer up a few fun ideas that you and your children might enjoy. Have fun!

1. Go to a coffee house for a hot chocolate "date."

2. Try out new cookie recipes for Santa.

3. Go to the dollar store and stock up on toys to donate.

4. Visit a senior center and sing carols.

5. Build a fort and have a Christmas movie marathon. 

6. Make holiday cards to send to the troops. Go here for more details.

7. Fill to-go mugs with homemade hot chocolate and take a stroll or drive through a neighborhood that is known for holiday lights and decorations. 

8. Take them to see "The Nutcracker," Handel's "Messiah," or some other holiday performance. 

9. Make gifts for their teachers, dance instructor's, coaches, etc. 

10. Volunteer to read The Night Before Christmas at a children's hospital.

11. Clean out the pantry and take all your non-perishables to a food bank.

12. Write down goals and wishes for 2015 and put them someplace visible so your kids can be reminded of what they'd like to accomplish.

13. Make ornaments to hang on the tree.

14. Talk about all the wonderful things that happened in 2014.

15. Invite some friends over and have a holiday crafting party. (A few fun DIYs to try.)

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Monday

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Friday Favorites

Yesterday was pretty much perfect; we gathered at my aunt's house, and stuffed our bellies with good food and our hearts with lots of love and laughter. It was loud and a little rowdy (in the best way, of course) and fun, and a beautiful reminder that I have so much to be thankful for, every day. It was also pretty magical to see my little girls playing with all of their cousins. This weekend I'm looking forward to finally getting a jump on my holiday shopping (though I'm standing in solidarity with protestors against police brutality and boycotting Black Friday). I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday that continues on to the weekend. God bless!

A beautiful holiday space. 

 

Bourbon spiked hot chocolate.

 

Jewelry as pie decoration. 

This glittery top coat.  

A tailgating brunch with cocktails and cute letter donuts.