Merry Christmas everyone!
I hope you all had an amazing day whether you celebrated Christmas or not!
We celebrate with my family early in the morning by going to my parents home at around 7 am (!!! which I know sounds crazy but its tradition and so fun!), read the Christmas story to refocus our attention on the real reason we celebrate, and then go around and open gifts. It's such a magical start to the day, and even though we love getting gifts, we also understand that there is so much more to it. I feel so grateful and in disbeleif every year at how blessed we are when life could be so different, because it is for so many. I also feel humbled by the story of Christs birth and love reading the story every year as a family.
Gifts for Him
After my parent's celebration, Chay and I went home to do our own gift exchange and to chill a bit since it's been a busy last week with so many celebrations, I was sooo excited to give Chay his gift which was a huge portrait painting of our two sweet Vizslas, Cookie and Chloe. It's funny because it shows how in love we are with them, but it really means something to us because our dear family friend painted it for us (and she is an amazing talent! ) I will post about this painting when we receive it (it's still drying). I also gave Chay some clothes for our upcoming London trip (!!!) a new cologne, and an Everlane bag for travel or the gym. He really doesn't like me to buy him a bunch of things or spend too much on him (snore, but I get it), so I really tried to think of gifts he would appreciate but not be overwhelmed by. He also isn't into designer stuff for himself (thank the Lord for that!) so clothes for him are purely for function. I think he really liked his gifts and will definitely use them!
I rounded up Chays top gifts that are most useful for everyday life:
1. BANANA REPUBLIC PEACOAT (PERFECT FOR OUR LONDON TRIP!)
2. EVERLANE WEEKENDER BAG (SUPER CHIC AND CLEAN)
3. PRADA LUNA ROSSA EAU DE TOILETTE (SMELLS SO GOOD FOR MEN)
mY GIFTS
I was sooo excited to open my gifts, Chay did an awesome job! He always asks for some sort of wishlist, and I happen to have one of those on hand...at all times hahaha. Its called pinterest and Chay knows all about my dream list. BUT I always give a roundup of items I would love from $100 and up because I love all sorts of styles and brands and don't expect splurge gifts on every Christmas or birthday. Well, he did reeeeeal good and got me a combo of a dream list item, plus a practical blogging tool I have been wanting but didn't want to buy for myself since it is kinda pricey normally. So excited!
I have been dying over the over the knee Tielands by Stuart Weitzman for years and Chay got me the slate gray ones along with a diva ring light for filming my videos! So definitely expect to see more:) I am going to wear these boots to death, especially in London!
I did my roundup of favorite gifts below that I know I will use over and over:
1. STUART WEITZMAN TIELANDS (SO PRETTY ON!)
2. DIPTYQUE BAIES OUTDOOR CANDLE (THE MOTHER OF ALL CANDLES)
3. SLIP SILK PILLOW CASE (GOOD FOR THE SKIN!)
4.BOBBI BROWN UNDER EYE CREAM (SO MOISTURIZING!)
5. DIVA RING LIGHT (BEST LIGHT EVERRRR)
The Rest of the Day
After we exchanged gifts, we went to Chay's grandma and grandpas home in Long Beach. It's always so great seeing them along with the rest of the family. We are so grateful for all of our family and despite hard times that have come and gone, we know we are so blessed to have people that care about us and want to be there for us. At the end of the day, we know we are so fortunate to have a place to go, something to eat, clothes to wear, and a roof over our heads.
I hope the Holidays, no matter what you celebrate, were a wonderful time for you and your loved ones. There are so many things to be thankful for, even in the hard times.
Sending my love and gratitude to all of you and thank you for being a part of my life and community that brings me so much joy!
Xo,
Kim