Some parents dread summer. I adore it. What a treat to sleep in, to drive less, to read stacks of books, to go on long walks in the early morning and before sunset, to strap on our helmets and go biking, and to plan adventures of all sorts!
Whether you're traveling near or far this summer (or even staying at home sweet home), I'm happy to present some of our family's favorite clothing, footwear, accessories, and hobby gear for the warm summer months! These are products that we are loving and using extensively this summer - and we have a hunch that your family will love them too!
What better way to pass the summer than with a wonderful book on the couch, in a hammock, or by the seaside?
When it comes to picture books, our family especially appreciates classics, historical biographies, and books of substance. As you will note from looking at the covers below, we also seek out books with captivating, lifelike illustrations. If your family has similar interests, you'll enjoy reading these aloud to your kids and will appreciate the conversations that follow.
Pictured: A Treasury of Mother Goose, Eleanor, Joan of Arc, Kamishibai Man, Leonardo Da Vinci, Once Upon a Fairy Tale House, Saint George and The Dragon, The Gardener of Alcatraz, The Librarian Who Measured the Earth, To Fly: The Story of the Wright Brothers, Welcome to the Symphony.
The very first Let's-Read-and-Find-Out title, A Tree is a Plant, was published in 1960. There are now over 130 titles on everything from the human body to weather to space. If your child is constantly asking "Why?" and "How?" (which are beautiful, important questions, by the way), this series will help fill in the knowledge gap.
Pictured: Germs Make Me Sick, What Happens to Our Trash?, What the Moon is Like.
If your young reader (especially ages 5 to 11) hasn't yet reached that "aha!" moment with reading, consider picking up several titles in the "We Both Read" series by Treasure Bay Books. One page - with longer, more complex text - is designed for the parent read. The other page - with simpler, more straightforward text - is created for the child. It's a great way to captivate the attention of a child who is looking for more substance.
Pictured: A Day on the International Space Station, Ben & Becky in the Haunted House, Endangered Animals, Secret of the Old Bones, Soccer, The Mystery of Pirate's Point, Top Predators, Wild Animals.
Summer is the ideal time to do puzzles, catch up or get ahead on school concepts, and /or learn something new. Technology sometimes helps with this, but we prefer analog opportunities more and more these days.
Pictured: Cluedle: The Case of the Dumpleton Diamond, Everything You Need to Ace Geometry in One Big Fat Notebook, Hidden Pictures Book Set 2026, Spot the Imposter Puzzles, Agatha Christie Magnetic Bookmarks, Pantone Notebooks, Star Notebook Collection, Strawberry Notecards.
These are some of the novels are kids will be picking up this summer. My philosophy is that, in most cases, the only children's novel that is worth reading is one that adults will also find appealing and fascinating. As such, there's a good chance I'll be reading these as well.
Pictured: Angel on the Square, Anne of Green Gables 6-Book Collection, Fifteen, No Flying in the House, Surviving the Applewhites, The Children of Green Knowe, Where the Mountain Meets the Moon.
I'm always searching for the next good non-fiction book to inspire and educate me to serve, parent, and live well. These are a few of the titles I'll be picking up this summer. Follow me on goodreads for my full reviews.
Pictured: A Random Walk Down Wall Street, Age of Opportunity, The Anxious Generation, The Call of the Wild + Free.
Carter's has been making children's clothing since 1865 and they continue to innovate while staying true to their original purpose. We love that new styles are introduced every season - kid friendly pieces in classic designs for ages newborn through size 14 that both parents and kids will agree on.
Pictured (left to right): Girls Rib Tank Top, Girls Cherry Denim Embroidered Midi Shorts, Girls Floral Maxi Dress, Girls Floral Smocked Midi Dress, Boys Surf Active Polo Shirt, Girls Smocked Tank Top, Boys Off Road Car Graphic Tee.
For resort vacations, world travel, and everyday fun around the neighborhood, look at these summer-ready outfits by Janie and Jack. The brand offers a laidback, effortless style that is refined while also being kid-friendly enough for play at the park, on the beach, or in the backyard.
Pictured: The Poplin Shirt, The Herringbone Short, California Tee, The Twill Short, Suede Buckle Sandal, Ditsy Floral Ruffle Dress, The Embroidered Cabana Shirt, Striped Ruffle Sweater Top, The Slub Polo, Oxford Pull-On Short, Suede Sneaker, Raglan Baseball Tee, Ribbed Peplum Ruffle Top.
Shoes that squeeze toes too tightly can lead to foot problems years, even decades, later. That's why the Little Love Bug Company specifically designs their children's shoes with wide toe boxes for health foot development. The flexible soles allow feet to stretch, run, and naturally move for healthy feet now and in the future.
As my skin continues to change with age (I'm 44), I've been researching the best skincare routines for optimal health, brightness, and moisture. Along the way, RoC Skincare kept being recommended because the products are designed by dermatologists and are clinically proven to "extend your skin span." My new routine is Vitamin C in the morning and Retinol at night.
Repeat after me: all supplements and vitamins are not created equal. It can be tempting to just pick up the latest vitamin megapack or plastic jar of chewables at Costco or Sam's Club, but resist the urge and do research instead. You'll soon find that many supplements on the market are actually passing through your body without any measurable benefits. Thorne supplements, however, are highly regarded for their rigorous testing, decades of clinical experience, and superior results. Plus, they are manufactured right here in the USA.
Summer is the time when the quality of your beauty tools matters. Tweezerman has been my favorite brands for tweezers and nail clippers for over a decade. These expert tools offer superior grip and perfectly angled tips for comfort, control, and precision. Best of all, you can show your personality by selecting thematic tools based on your interests - whether that be travel, disney, or a specific color theme.
If you or your kids have new or existing scars from backyard play, keloids, or surgeries, Rejuvaskin offers clinically proven scar care products that are consistently recommended by surgeons and dermatologists. My teenage daughters and I love these non-greasy, nice-to-the-touch, clinically proven products. Shop for sun care, eczema relief, or dry summer skin.
Fill your home with summer scents - Seaberry, Floral Coast, Sea La Vie, Coastal Calm, and more. Old Whaling Co offers lovely candles and beautiful bar soaps in limited edition scents that will get you in the mood for catching fireflies, chasing the ice cream truck, running through the sprinklers, stopping at lemonade stands, and singing songs around a backyard bonfire.
Families: wait until you see this magical bench concept! The Convert A Bench is easy to set up, easy to clean, and easy to convert between a bench and a chair. One bench converts to a 3-person table. Two benches can be put together to create a 6-person table. Plus, the benches are made from vinyl and resin (super low maintenance!) and you can order customized bench cushions or pillows in pretty patterns!
Improve the quality of your next family vacation with one simple hack: purchase a set of packing cubes for each member of the family in his/her favorite color! Packing and organizing on the go will be a breeze because each person will know exactly where their clothes are at the resort, beach house, grandma's house, or even summer camp!
Some people do "spring cleaning." In our house, summer is the season of purging, cleaning, and organizing. With school behind us, we take the opportunity to go through closets, do a thorough renovation of the pantry, and put together lots of bags of our gently-used items for our favorite local charity.
One of our recent game-changing solutions has been the Space Saving Hangers by MORALVE. Fit 5 skirts, 5 pairs of pants, or 6 tank tops vertically on one hanger! Brilliant! This is an excellent innovation for dorm rooms also. If you have a student heading off to college this fall, take note.
Our family lives in the backyard for nine months out of the year! Not literally, of course - but we do spend hours outside: playing cornhole and foosball, hosting parties, kicking a soccer ball, passing a volleyball, eating dinner, tossing sticks to our playful golden retriever, planting vegetables and flowers, and soaking in the spectacular Arizona sunshine. If this sounds a lot like your family or you're hoping to make more golden backyard memories this summer, GoSports is the brand for you. Whether you want to relax in the best camping chair (this is my favorite one for watching my kids play sports!), propose a competitive game of corn hole with a cold drink in hand, or challenge your kids to a basketball game in the pool, GoSports will get you there.
Pictured (left to right): All Weather Metal Cornhole Scoreboard with Drink Holders, WOVN Beach Backpack Chair, Coast Modern Outdoor Side Table, Magna Soccer Tabletop Board Game, SplashHoop Elite Basketball.
If you consistently find yourself sitting on the bleachers or out on the soccer field in warm weather, consider a portable fan. Aecooly offers a variety of options - tabletop, portable, misting, even a tiny one that folds down small enough to put in your pocket! They are great for bike rides, road races, weekend hikes, camping trips, and international travel! Also: Perfect for cooling off pets on hot days too!
I'm a big fan of long, lazy afternoons instead of scheduled-by-the-minute extracurriculars that divide the family by interest. To pull everyone together, try a new-to-you board game! Dyce Games offers creative options that even regular gaming families may not recognize. From History Trivia to drawing games to rating games, there are party games that will appeal to each member of the family!
Pictured (left to right): Doodle Heist, First to Worst, History Trivia Game.
What products are you loving this summer?
Father’s Day 2026 is Sunday, June 21. Just around the corner!
Below you will find my top recommendations for practical gifts that your dad, brother, husband, or son will use all year long.
These are hand-picked selections of the best books, clothing, accessories, hobby, health, sports, and travel products for the hardest person to shop for in the family!
You're bound to find perfect gift matches for almost any man - regardless of his line of work or his interests. Whether he enjoys traveling, reading, hiking, or sports, you'll find a great idea below.
Our top Father's Day gift pick for 2026 is a Weber stand-alone Griddle, which is the fastest growing product in the outdoor grilling category! The Weber 36" Griddle makes cooking a breeze. Preparing burgers, pancakes, paninis, omelets, and vegetables is simple...and clean-up is easier and more straight-forward than a traditional grill! You'll be surprised at how flavorful griddle-prepared menu items are. In fact, your guy actually may end up neglecting his traditional grill in favor of the griddle!
If the man in your life works in law enforcement (police, fire, military, etc) or enjoys adventurous pursuits, he may already be a fan of 5.11 Tactical. If not, this is the time to introduce him. 5.11 Tactical is “purpose-built gear for the most demanding missions" to help people “always be ready” for any situation.
Needless to say, we are huge fans of the lightweight, well-designed, and super functional clothing pieces by 5.11 Tactical. The brand's military-inspired pieces offer more than meets the eye – premium fabrics, invisible mag pockets, water repellent fabrics, and other useful features.
Dads who cook are certain to appreciate the high standards of every product made by GreenPan. GreenPan is one of our family's favorite kitchen brands because their products are sustainably made, PFAS-free, lead-free, cadmium-free, and plastic-free. This is clean cooking at its best.
For example, pizza night has never been easier with GreenPan's new indoor and outdoor pizza oven. Adjustable from 350˚F–850˚F, the oven is a cinch to power up and will help him perfect his favorite pizza recipe without heating up the house unnecessarily during the sweltering summer months.
For dads who love consuming protein shakes or fruit & spinach smoothies, consider the Spin & Go Portable Blender. Despite its small size, it packs a powerful punch, crushing ice, fruit, and vegetables into refreshing frozen drinks. Detach the cup from the base and carry it with you anywhere for a convenient, healthy, easy-to-make breakfast.
Quality shoes are the best Father's Day gift. They're easy to size and are so useful for a man at any income level or age. He'll appreciate your sense of style and is bound to start wearing them from day one.
Running Shoes
Runners are always in need of new supportive shoes that are durable, comfortable, and road-ready. These two pairs meet that description and will be trusty companions for his walks around the neighborhood, trail runs in the forest, or the next half-marathon on his calendar.
Casual Sneakers
Who knew that comfortable shoes could be this cool? San Antonio Shoemakers used to be a brand for your grandpa and grandma, but not anymore! These exceptionally crafted shoes are not only designed for optimal foot support and protective padding, but are also perfectly aligned to current fashion trends.
Dress Shoes
Another great looking shoe by SAS! The Ambassador Lace Up Oxford is ideal for the office. You can't even tell that these dress shoes are Medicare and Diabetic approved because they are the very height of style.
What he really wants for Father's Day is a pair of high-tech, high-performance earbuds. Bose is the premier brand for crisp, clean sound and superior ear protection.
The Ultra Open Earbuds have a cuff-like design that "leave your ears open to hear the world around you with OpenAudio technology that delivers rich, private sound" while the QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds have the benefit of noise cancellation so exterior noises can fade to the background.
One thing that's cool about Bose is their CustomTune technology. Essentially, the earbuds "analyze your ears" and then automatically adapt the sound and noise cancellation level to their unique shape.
If your dad is handy and enjoys working in the yard (or aspires to do so), landscaping tools are a win-win gift for everyone. With DeWalt's 60V MAX Telescoping Pole Saw, he'll be able to safely cut hard-to-reach and high-up tree branches. Plus, this conveniently cordless pole saw boasts peak power - up to 75% greater than a 28cc gas pole saw!
The right tools make any job more enjoyable - and DeWalt's tools are well-respected by construction workers, landscapers, and do-it-yourself dads. Because they're #GuaranteedTough and designed to increase both performance & productivity, DeWalt tools make a perfect, all-around Father's Day gift for any dad!
Just in time for summer, Cozy Earth's Silk Comforter is exquisite for sleeping. Filled with 100% mulberry silk, the comforter is luxuriously soft while also being breathable, moisture-wicking, and cooling. The crisp white aesthetic matches seamlessly with any decor and brings an air of refinement to any room.
An insightful new business or personal growth book is a welcome gift for any man who strives to be on the cutting edge of leadership, communication, and technology. We've curated a short list of titles to help him learn, grow, and advance in his field. Keep an eye on my goodreads account for reviews of these and other titles.
Pictured: A Grief Observed, A Long Obedience in the Same Direction, A Random Walk Down Wall Street, Age of Opportunity, Compassionate Accountability, Faith That Lasts, If One Uses It Lawfully, Jayber Crow, On Christian Teaching, Teaching the Faith Forming the Faithful, The Abolition of Man, The Courageous Follower, The Death of Expertise, The Great Divorce, The Law The Christ The Promise, The Screwtape Letters.
Serious readers will be delighted to received hardcover collectible classics of the Great Books of the centuries.
Levenger is a new favorite brand in our house because the products are sophisticated in design, masterfully created for functionality, and absolutely beautiful in aesthetic. In other words, it's the perfect place to find gifts for discerning professionals, reflective thinkers, and analog enthusiasts. Lawyers, professors, writers, executives, and intellectuals will appreciate these timeless tools and accessories for their everyday work.
Happy Father's Day to all of the wonderful dads around the world!
* Some of the above products were sent to us for testing/review purposes. As always, I only feature items we truly love and you’re always welcome to contact me directly with any questions.
Mother’s Day 2026 - which is Sunday, May 10 - is an ideal time to celebrate and appreciate the amazing women in our lives! This gift guide is dedicated to all of the mothers and grandmothers who love, encourage, and work hard every day for the people they love.
If you are looking for a meaningful and memorable gift for your mother or grandmother, browse below for some excellent ideas!
Books are the best gifts - particularly beautiful hardcover books that double as decor. Browse below for some of the best gift titles for Mother's Day 2026.
If you love both books and art, be sure to keep tabs on HarperMuse. This eye-for-design publishing company has been releasing gorgeous hand-painted editions of classics each quarter. These collectible titles are truly lovely to behold on the shelf and are 100% gift-worthy. No wrapping paper needed!
Available Titles: Anne of Green Gables, Frankenstein, Jane Eyre, Little Women, Persuasion, Peter Pan, The Great Gatsby, The Mysterious Affair at Styles, The Return of Sherlock Holmes, The Secret Garden, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, and Winnie the Pooh.
Over the past two decades, I have become more and more appreciative of holistic and functional medicine, which considers the whole person, looks for root causes, and offers lifestyle (diet, exercise, herbs, tea, oils, etc) treatment options rather than turning first to prescriptions and surgeries.
Stephanie Tourles's Essential Oils is a classic text when it comes to learning "how to safely use highly concentrated plant extracts effectively." This handy, full color reference book contains simple recipes and natural remedies for bug bites, earaches, headaches, hot flashes, sore muscles, and much more.
Wordsworth Editions offers an eye-catching collection of delightful hardcover classics! These compact, cloth-bound beauties have embossed gold title lettering and pretty illustrated covers.
Currently available titles include: Alice in Wonderland, Anne of Green Gables, Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde, Oliver Twist, Sense & Sensibility, The Railway Children, Treasure Island, and others.
Non-fiction new releases are a great gift for moms who love learning. The Next Conversation was published in March 2025, Big Talk was released in Feb 2026, and Drained is coming out in April 2026! Follow me on goodreads to keep tabs on my reviews of the above titles and more!
Shoes are one of the very best Mother’s Day gifts because they are sure to be used and appreciated, whether your mom has only two pairs of shoes or an entire closetful. Plus, it’s relatively simple to get the sizing exactly right. This year, I’m showcasing a few hand-picked footwear options to suit a variety of activity levels, interests, occupations, and styles.
I found your mom's go-to sandals for the summer! They're stylish and sweet and go with absolutely everything. She will love the Abby Flatform Espadrille Sandal (pictured left) and/or Marin Slide Sandal (pictured right; order these in half size up from your regular size). Actually, TOMS is your destination for women's sandals for summer 2026. So many adorable options for warm weather!
If I want a pair of affordable, comfortable, on-trend shoes, I inevitably turn to Dream Pairs. Your mom is bound to love this brand as much as we do! My daughters and I all particularly love the foldable ballet flats, which are available in a delightful array of colors (pictured above). The cowboy/western boots are amazing too - perfect for line dancing, county fairs, and school spirit days!
PICTURED (left to right): Foldable Ballet Flats (navy), Mila Low Chunky Heel (white), Foldable Ballet Flats (white), Square Toe Cowgirl Boots (pink).
Take a look at Skechers for summer! Skechers' constantly rotating styles offer something for every member of the family - classic white sneakers, adorable slip-in sandals, and casual shoes for everyday wear.
PICTURED (left to right): Belmont Alluring Charm and Skechers Slip-ins: BOBS Desert Kiss Frayed Fun.
The award for the best heels goes to...San Antonio Shoemakers! These pumps are the height of fashion while also offering superior support, comfort, and stability. If the mom in your life attends conferences, speaks at professional events, or wears suits on a frequent basis, she will slip on these heels and be brand-loyal forever.
SAS also makes sophisticated tote bags that she can take to work, to dinner, or on her next business trip.
PICTURED: Moxie Kitten Heel (Bone), Vertical Tote Bag (Black), Elaine Kitten Heel (Taupe Stripe).
Searching for the perfect "personal item" travel bag with a laptop sleeve? Check out the Nik by MZ Wallace! This ultra-stylish, highly versatile over-the-shoulder bag has all of the extras she will need for air travel. The roomy interior fits up to a 16-inch laptop and this smartly designed bag also boasts 7 exterior pockets, 9 interior pockets, a phone pocket, and a key ring strap. Plus, it also easily fits on top of most rolling luggage and/or underneath your seat on airplanes!
With summer right around the corner, we all have summer fashion in mind. How can moms stay cool and look stylish while also being comfortable and modest? Introducing Halftee - a brilliant, soft, layering piece that solves so many summer style problems! I have several Halftees and they're seriously so helpful!
For outdoorsy moms, consider a gift of athletic clothing and footwear. Most mothers only buy workout clothing for themselves on rare occasions so Mother's Day is the perfect time to give her a few new pieces for running, hiking, and going to the gym. HOKA is one of the most popular brands among runners and it's east to see why! The brand offers supportive, thoughtfully crafted styles for all kinds of adventures!
PICTURED (left to right): Airolite Tank 2.0 and Transport Hike GTX.
Tired of plastic wrap that crinkles and creates chaos? ChicWrap offers high-quality plastic wrap, foil, and parchment paper in stylish dispensers that will match your kitchen. The plastic wrap, in particular, receives rave reviews on Amazon with one person commenting that "this is the most clever and stylish plastic wrap dispenser ever made" and another describing it as "by far the best plastic wrap you will ever buy!"
PICTURED (left to right): Stainless Steel Aluminum Foil Dispenser, Butcher Block Parchment Dispenser, Spring Flowers Plastic Wrap Dispenser, Subway Tile Plastic Wrap Dispenser.
It's amazing what a difference simple organizational tools can make in your home! We recently traded our scattered spice jars for a spice rack organizer and it's been a game-changer in our kitchen. No more scrounging through random shelves to find a spice! Each spice is clearly labeled, easy to see, and easy to refill! I highly recommend this system for any mom in your life.
SpaceAid offers dozens of other invaluable organizational products, including a bed sheet organizer system and toy storage organizer. Brilliant strategies to bring calm to your home!
I recently discovered Bare Botanics after learning about the benefits of dry brushing. This is how it works. You use a brush with soft, yet firm, brushes and use strokes to brush your skin toward your heart, beginning at your feet. This motion helps with inflammation and lymphatic drainage. I've been doing it for several weeks now and really believe in the benefits!
For a thoughtful mother's day gift that will promote wellness, fill a basket with products from this Wisonson-based brand that focuses on sustainability, sensitive skin, and simple products that will rejuvenate your skin.
PICTURED: Palm Body Brush, Long Handle Back Brush, Magnesium Oil Spray, Aloe Vera Mist.
If you're stuck on what to get your mom for Mother's Day, I recommend makeup. It's forever running out and it's so much fun to try a new-to-you product!
Laura Geller specializes in healthy, revitalizing makeup products that are created to uniquely address the needs of mature skin.
P.S. My teenage daughters (ages 14, 17, and 19) also love Laura Geller products so they're fabulous for any age!
Looking for a hair dryer that is as adorable as it is efficient? Ella Bella's Ionic Hair Dryer uses the power of negative ions to transform your hair. There are multiple heat settings so that you can customize your drying experience for less frizz and more style. Plus, this dryer offers low noise technology and three magnetic nozzles (including a diffuser - perfect for curly girls!).
At-home teeth whitening products are an affordable, gentle way to whiten your teeth on your own timeline. Crest offers a number of great options for people who'd like to brighten their smile and fight stains from coffee, tea, sugar, or aging. Wear the whitening strips for 30 minutes every day for two weeks and you'll love the results! For quick fixes or touch-ups, try the teeth whitening pen. You literally glide the pen over your teeth (like whiteout) before taking family photos or heading out to a special event!
Happy Mother's Day to you & yours!
You might be surprised to find out that I love Valentine's Day. In short, I operate on the idea that life is brief so we should tell (and show!) the people who we love that as often as possible.
Valentine's Day gives me an opportunity to build DIY baskets for my kids, to plan special meals & treats, and even to host parties (we held a Valentine-themed party for all of the 8th grade girls at my daughter's school last year).
Sure, Valentine's Day is commercial - but it's also a fun opportunity to make memories and to demonstrate how much you love the people closest to you in tangible ways.
If you are looking for a meaningful and memorable gift ideas for Valentine's Day 2026 (Saturday, February 14), take a peek below.
Stanley is the "it" brand for water bottles. Stylish. Sturdy. Swanky. And - for Valentine's Day - smothered in adorable hearts. Available for a limited time in feminine pinks and bold reds. Exclusively at Target.
We also love the IceFlow 24oz bottles - no straw, easy-clean, perfect size for day-to-day use. They fit perfectly in backpack pockets and car cup holders!
PICTURED (left to right): IceFlow™ Bottle with Fast Flow Lid 24 OZ, Stanley Valentine's Day 30 oz Stainless Steel Frost Heart, Stanley Valentine's Day 30 oz Stainless Steel Pink Heart, Stanley Valentine's Day 16 oz Stainless Steel Transit Bottle Rouge Heart.
Surprise your loved ones with thematic gummy candies by Sur La Table. Sour Gummy Sugar Lips and Cherry Gummy Hearts? Yes, please! Add them to a DIY Valentine Box or scatter them across the dinner table for a festive & romantic flair.
Books are the best gifts - particularly beautiful hardcover books that double as decor. Browse below for some of the best gift titles for Valentine's Day 2026.
If you love both books and art, be sure to keep tabs on HarperMuse. This eye-for-design publishing company has been releasing gorgeous hand-painted editions of classics each quarter. These collectible titles are truly lovely to behold on the shelf and are 100% gift-worthy. No wrapping paper needed!
Available Titles: Anne of Green Gables, Frankenstein, Jane Eyre, Little Women, Persuasion, Peter Pan, The Great Gatsby, The Mysterious Affair at Styles, The Return of Sherlock Holmes, The Secret Garden, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, and Winnie the Pooh.
My daughters and I don't read romance. We do, however, love sweeping and evocative stories that are masterfully told and carefully researched with well-developed relational stories that unfold naturally. Ruth Sepetys is an expert at this.
The above books are other ones that are on our to-read list for 2026. I'm about half way throughTheo of Golden and it's a delight so far.
PICTURED (Left to Right): Between Shades of Gray, Beyond That The Sea, Everything Sad is Untrue, Once A Queen, Redeeming Love, Salt to the Sea, The Correspondent, The Fountains of Silence, The Scarlet Letter, Theo of Golden.
Our 16-year-old daughter recently discovered the Girl Defined: Biblical Womanhood blog by Kristen Clark and Bethany Baird and has spent hours poring over the articles. When she shared it with me, I was initially skeptical, but then impressed by the solid wisdom presented.
With three teen girls (ages 19, 16, 13), we've also been doing our fair share of conversations about dating and marriage. As such, I'm trying to read all of the best relationship books to glean insights.
PICTURED (Left to Right): A Chance to Die, Girl Defined, Holding Hands Holding Hearts, Letters to a Romantic On Dating, Letters to a Romantic on Engagement, Love Defined, Made to Be She, Nine Essential Conversations Before You Say I Do, Not Part of the Plan, Ready or Knot, Shine Bright, The Legacy Life, The Let Them Theory, The Sacred Search.
Wordsworth Editions offers an eye-catching collection of delightful hardcover classics! These compact, cloth-bound beauties have embossed gold title lettering and pretty illustrated covers.
Currently available titles include: Alice in Wonderland, Anne of Green Gables, Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde, Oliver Twist, Sense & Sensibility, The Railway Children, Treasure Island, and others.
Shoes in red, white, and pink (or in cozy styles) are one of the very best Valentine's Day gifts because they are sure to be used and appreciated. Plus, it’s relatively simple to get the sizing exactly right. This year, I’m showcasing a few hand-picked footwear options to suit a variety of activity levels, interests, occupations, and styles.
Dream Pairs and ALLSWIFIT are sister brands that put out affordable shoes in all the latest styles. Whether you're looking for brand name look-alike slides, ballet flats, slip-in sneakers, cowboy boots, or heels, these two brands are ones to keep an eye on.
PICTURED (left to right): Slip On Stability Walking Shoes, Foldable Ballet Flats, Women's Cowboy Boots.
Struggling with plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, bunions, or Morton’s neuroma? KURU's got your...feet! These groundbreaking shoes, which come in a variety of different styles, offer heel-hugging technology and generous insoles to cushion, stabilize, and support your feet.
PICTURED (left to right): APOGEE and DRAFT Lahti.
Searching for the perfect "personal item" travel bag with a laptop sleeve? Check out the Nik by MZ Wallace! This ultra-stylish, highly-versatile over-the-shoulder bag has all of the extras she will need for air travel. The roomy interior fits up to a 16-inch laptop and this smartly designed bag also boasts 7 exterior pockets, 9 interior pockets, a phone pocket, and a key ring strap. Plus, it also easily fits on top of most rolling luggage and/or underneath your seat on airplanes!
I've said it at least fifty times and I'll say it again. Janie & Jack is my all-time favorite clothing brand for ages 0-13. The clothes are polished, of premium quality, and at the peak of style. Because they are well-made and of a timeless nature, the pieces can be handed down between siblings and cousins or even preserved for the next generation.
PICTURED (left to right): French Terry Hooded Sweatshirt with The Stripe French Terry Jogger, The Bow Sweater, Wide Leg Jean, Knit Sneaker, Linen-Cotton Cuffed Pant, The Linen Shirt.
For high-quality layering pieces, lingerie, and professional pieces, I almost always check White House Black Market (and sister company Soma) first. They offer work-to-dinner-to-playtime separates that work well for college students, 9to5ers, and moms (who work 24/7).
PICTURED (left to right): Glamgetter Tee, WHBM FORME™ All Ways Stretch V-Neck Cami, Lace Cami, Button Envelope Neck Sweater, Emme Wide Leg Trouser Ponte Pants.
ALSO! Soma has the most stunning lingerie for 2026 - Velvet Camisole with Velvet Tap Short, Tattoo Embroidered Perfect Coverage Bra.
Do you have a favorite sock brand? I do! And so do my daughters! Bombas' socks offer supreme softness and stretch. Magically lightweight while also being supportive.
PICTURED (left to right): Women's Lightweight Bow Quarter Socks, Women’s Ruffle Lace Quarter Sock 3-Pack.
Have you ever admired the gorgeous photo walls at your friends' homes, but been overwhelmed by the logistics and tools needed to pull one off at your own house? Worry no more! Mixtiles is the solution you have been looking for! You can order framed prints or canvases in all shapes and sizes - and then *stick* them to your wall without nails! Best of all, the sticky or magnetic frames are repositionable so you can rearrange them with ease around your house. You've got to try them to believe it and, when you do, you won't want to go back to hammers, nails, and holes in your walls!
Warm him or her up for Valentine's Day with a luxe blanket from Cozy Earth! Their premium-quality options are ideal for throwing over a couch, snuggling under for a movie on a rainy afternoon, draping over a guest bed, or cocooning yourself under after a stressful day.
Considering a Valentine's gift for a teen girl in your life? I've got just the thing! Nail polish in pretty colors and pedicure/manicure tools! Butter LONDON's line is made with clean ingredients and good-for-you formulas that will help nourish and heal (rather than harm) your nails.
Pictured (left to right): Signature Glass Pedicure Foot File & Callus Remover Tool, Cakes & Cuppas 6-Piece Nail Lacquer Set, Rose Petal Nail Polish Duo, Soho Show Mascara.
Happy Valentine's Day to you & the people you love!
Welcome to Metropolitan Mama’s Christmas Gift Guide for Professional Men & Women.
Below you will find clothes, shoes, books, gear, and organization products that professional men & women are bound to love (and use!) for Christmas 2025.
Whether your gift recipient is jetting setting across the world to international business conferences, sealing deals in a home office, or looking for ways to increase productivity in the new year, this list will provide excellent gift suggestions.
When you need high-quality, performance apparel for the workplace that surpasses trends and steers toward classic, turn to Lands' End. You'll find blazers, button-ups, jewelry, and suiting separates that will have staying power in your closet - transitioning seamlessly from season to season and year to year.
Until you're 40+, you are blissfully unaware how your skin will change as you progress through the decades. Laura Geller understands maturing skin.
Baked makeup is specially designed to help women feel confident and beautiful at any age. Why is baked makeup better? It has a wonderful weightless feel and look - not cakey, allowing for a radiant crease-free finish.
If you want a natural, glowy, hydrated complexion without the fuss, Laura Geller's kits and stand-alone products are well worth a look. We especially applaud Laura Geller for splashing their pages and social media presence with photos of gorgeous women in their 40s, 50s, 60s, 70s, and beyond!
Pictured (left to right): Baked Balance-n-Brighten Color Correcting Foundation, Baked Blush-n-Brighten Marbleized Blush, Glam on the Go Face + Eye Palettes, Italian Marble Lipstick Duo: Berry Banana & Rosé Macaron, New Icons Kit, The Ideal Fix Concealer.
Fossil, a trusted name in the watchmaking industry, presents the elegant Raquel Three-Hand Date Gold-Tone Stainless Steel Watch. This gorgeous statement piece is simultaneously functional and luxurious, which makes it the ideal gift for a professional woman.
If you're still packing without packing cubes, you're doing it wrong. Quince will keep you from going crazy - whether you're planning a solo backpacking trip, a first class business trip, or a family vacation. Organize your clothes, accessories, tech equipment, or toiletries in these durable, adorable compression cubes.
Decorté was the first cosmetic brand to use liposomes in skincare, creating multi-layered micro-capsules that deliver active ingredients to skin more effectively for long-lasting moisture and hydration. The Japanese skincare brand has collaborated with Nobel Prize-winning scientists to develop its radiant cosmetic products - in creamy, dewy colors that nourish and refresh skin for a natural glow.
When I am on the lookout for suiting separates or holiday dresses, I inevitably stop in at Dillard's, which is a store I trust for quality materials and spot-on styles. The Preston & York brand delivers pieces at the peak of professionalism, but with interesting details (mandarin collars, notch lapels, ruffle sleeves, etc) that modernize the suit.
If her office chair is looking a bit tired, the Ella Desk Chair is the ultimate gift for Christmas 2024! Put a bow on it and surprise her with this thoughtful, practical gift that she'll use every single day as she chases her dreams and conquers her goals. The Ella chair is available in either bonded leather or performance fabric and is sure to match marvelously with any office decor.
Silk blouses are A+ office attire. They're lightweight and comfortable while offering an understated elegance. Silk button-ups and blouses are also ideal for layering under blazers when the occasion calls for a level up in professionalism.
Most of the best gifts are intangible - warm hugs, close friendships, conversations of depth, time in nature, solitude, or a good night's sleep. When we consider that last gift, however, an airy, cool pillow that is specially designed for proper support in different sleeping positions can make all the difference. Head over to Eli & Elm to find the perfect pillow for your sleeping preferences.
Have you ever dreamed of having a robot maid like Rosey in The Jetsons? Shark has been hard at work, designing the next best thing - a self-emptying robot vacuum and mop! Our family has been testing it out for the past year (we even named her - FLOORence) and we all agree that it's been a game-changer for our family. With five people in our house, plus a golden retriever, the floors get dirty fast. FLOORence saves the day regularly! We programmed the robot to automatically turn on twice a week when our kids are at school, but we can also assign specific rooms that we want cleaned anytime during the week. If you've been on the fence about robot vacuums, Christmas is a great opportunity to try it!
Easy Spirit dress shoes are designed to be orthotic friendly with intentional arch support and roomy toe boxes. Although they are secretly comfortable, they remain effortlessly elegant, retaining a remarkable timelessness that make them appealing across generations.
After you clock out, slip into shoes by Kuru. Designed with springy, shock-absorbing cushioning and exceptional heel & arch support, these sneakers feel good and look great.
Vineyard Vines offers everything you need to be the most effortlessly stylish person in the room at your next board meeting, business retreat, or holiday party. These classic styles work well for men & women of all ages and are highly versatile - easy to dress up or down with jewelry and accessories.
Pictured (left to right): Bow Back Sweater, Katie Cotton Cardigan, Lived-In Pique Polo, Muskeget Plaid Vineyard Flannel Shirt, Performance On-the-Go Pants, Silky Slip Skirt.
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Some of the listed products were sent to us to try. Other products are ones that we purchased ourselves or were given by family members and friends. Know that I only recommend products and brands that we actually use and love.
Welcome to Metropolitan Mama’s Christmas Gift Guide for Party Hosts. Below you will find hand-picked selections of the best furniture, decor, serveware, glassware, lighting, games, activities, and accessories for people who love to entertain - both indoors and outdoors.
Whether you gift recipient enjoys hosting formal dinner parties, weekend brunch, high tea, or backyard barbecues, this list will help you find exactly the right gift.
Party hosts can never have too much party gear - especially in adorable, artistic designs! Based in my home state of Arizona, Slant Collections offers delightful partyware options by theme. Find paper plates, napkins, cups, cake toppers, candles, and everything else you might need to add a special touch to your next celebration.
Pictured (left to right): Birthday Cake Party in a Box, Happy Birthday Cake Shaped Napkins, Make A Wish Bead-Filled Cake Topper.
Libbey is a glassware company with a long history of producing lovely, translucent glasses, plates, prep bowls, and serveware. Since 1818, Libbey has become synonymous with glassware for parties. I'm fairly certain that the punch bowl at my first baby shower nineteen years ago was made by Libbey!
For holiday 2024, I'm loving the modern (yet nostalgic!) farmhouse look of the new glass and acaciawood serveware pieces. The wood is beautifully marbled in color and grain - each piece is unique!
We are choosy about dinnerware and we adore Liberty Tabletop's American Bistro set. Made in the USA in the cheerful and sun-kissed city of Tucson, Arizona, these pure white dishes are sturdy, smooth, and elegant. When you pick them up, you'll be surprised by both the weight and the grace of each plate, bowl, and mug. When Tim and I got married twenty years ago, we chose white dishes on purpose and that was one of the best registry decisions we made. White dishes go with every kitchen and tabletop decor theme and can be seamlessly used for everyday meals or fancy dinner parties (even weddings!).
Liberty Tabletop is a brand that is committed to quality and patriotism. In fact, Liberty Tabletop bought Oneida in 2005 and it is now the only remaining flatware manufacturer in the United States. You can expect shiny, durable, and high-end flatware from Liberty. The spoons, knives, and forks in the Annapolis collection will add beauty to any table, while also being a pleasure to use.
I recently discovered Frontier soup mixes by Anderson House and promptly decided that they would make the perfect stocking stuffer, even for people with a variety of dietary needs & preferences (ex: vegetarian, gluten-free, health-savvy, etc). These soup packets are made with only real ingredients that you will recognize (veggies, herbs, etc). You simply take a packet, mix in additional ingredients that are specified, and make a delicious, savory soup in minutes! My nephew was visiting when I made the Rocky Mountain Trail Loaded Potato Soup and my sister-in-law called me up that very night to say he wanted the recipe! It was exceptional.
We stopped using our previous waffle maker about five years ago over concerns about Teflon flaking and the associated health risks. Oh how I've missed belgian waffles ever since then (although I did have the best waffle I've ever eaten in Bruges, Belgium in May 2024!).
This year, I was overjoyed to discover that GreenPan makes a ceramic, nontoxic waffle maker that is elegant on the table, simple to use, and ideal for serving a crowd (it makes four square waffles at once!). I highly recommend!
Serving hot beverages to a crowd can get complicated fast. Never fear though! Nostalgia's 45-cup coffee urn can save the day. With speedy brewing power and an incredibly handy keep warm function, these large-capacity urns with double spigots are perfect for serving large amounts of coffee, tea, hot cider, or hot chocolate to large groups of people. Ideal for baby showers, dinner parties, and holiday get-togethers!
For knives that are both sharp and stylish, we turn to Cutco. They're beautiful to look at, a joy to use, and durable enough to last decades. In fact, Cutco is the best knife brand I've ever found for longevity and loveliness. We also love Cutco's accessories and kitchen tools, which are equally sturdy and sophisticated.
Pictured (left to right): 4-Pc Table Knife Set, Slice n' Serve, Kitchen Tool Set with Holder, Traditional Cheese Knife.
If you've been on the fence about buying an area rug, consider this your motivation to move forward. Area rugs add so much warmth to a room, perhaps more than any other single factor. Area rugs are cozy, comforting, and inviting.
Ready to change your room instantly with one purchase? Shopping for rugs can be overwhelming since there are so many colors, sizes, and designs to choose from, but we were 100% happy with our recent experience with Nourison Home. Our Somerset rug is gorgeous and well-made, soft on your feet and such a treat to sit on too!
Add a little extra to your favorite person's coffee with an easy-to-use milk frother. This convenient device uses a whisking mechanism to aerate the milk, giving it a light and fluffy texture. Simply add your milk, choose your desired setting, and let the frother do the work.
Experienced party hosts will love the versatility and portability of this ingenious pop-up station where you can serve beer and wine or just sparkling water, mocktails, and hot cider with caramel and whipping cream.
A beautiful cutting board adds so much to a kitchen. It can be both a piece of art and an incredibly practical every day tool for chopping vegetables, displaying cheeses and nuts for a charcuterie party, or kneading dough for cut-out sugar cookies.
Low-cost household items that help party hosts keep their house in order are a good pick for a housewarming gift or a holiday party hostess basket.
Tea and coffee drinkers will be enamored by the exquisite design of the Stagg EKG Electric Kettle by Fellow. The precision spout ensures a smooth, steady pour at an optimal flow rate, while to-the-degree temperature control heats and holds water to your desired heat scale. This means you'll get a perfect cup of your favorite warm beverage exactly when you want it (you can even schedule it ahead of time).
Foosball is a super fun addition to any game room or backyard porch. It provides instant entertainment and hours of play for two to four players of all ages.
We've been devoted users of cast iron for years - and Lodge Cast Iron is our go-to brand. We use our Enamel Cast Iron Dutch Oven every week - especially for soups and chilis during the fall and winter months. It's beautiful, durable, easy to clean, and non-toxic.
For loyal cast iron enthusiasts, consider gifting one of the brilliant storage and cookware organizers that will make their cast iron collection easy to access throughout the day.
Stumped about what to get a party host that seems to have everything? Hand soaps are a smart pick because they are a disposable resource. People who love to entertain will be grateful for hand soaps - especially in pretty bottles and refreshing scents.
Be the best grandparents or neighbors on the block with a well-stocked sports organizer. Fill it with balls, racquets, backyard games, and other great fitness equipment - all stored neatly in the garage or on the patio.
Voted "Board Game of the Year," Outsmarted is like Trivial Pursuit on steroids. With add-on question expansion packs and thousands of questions that adjust based on age level, this is a techie trivia game that the whole family will enjoy. Really fun for parties too! Designed for ages 8+ and 2-24 players.
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Some of the listed products were sent to us to try. Other products are ones that we purchased ourselves or were given by family members and friends. Know that I only recommend products and brands that we actually use and love.
Welcome to Metropolitan Mama’s Christmas Gift Guide for Teens and College Students - Girl Edition.
Below you will find clothes, shoes, decor, games, and accessories that teens and college students are bound to love for Christmas 2025. These include dorm decor pieces, furniture and gear for small spaces, beauty and wellness items, and more!
An adorable pajama set is on every college girl's wish list for Christmas 2025! Bella Sleep + Spa has the cutest ones we could find with ruffled shorts, cropped button-ups, and silky or soft materials.
Pictured (left to right): Ocean Blue Cabana Stripe, Spa Blue Whip Stitch, Ocean Blue Shells.
A new pair of shoes is on every girl's Christmas wish list. Dream Pairs offers affordable, adorable, on-trend shoes in a variety of styles to meet your needs. They're easy to buy on Amazon - free shipping, free returns, great color options, comfortable fit.
Pictured (left to right): Ballet Flats, Slippers, Cowgirl Boots.
If you are undecided about a gift that she will love, stuff her stocking with mascaras, lipsticks, highlighters, blushes, and any new-fangled cosmetic products that you can find! She's guaranteed to love Saie's high-performance formulas, which are made with clean, good-for-your-skin ingredients (with sustainable packaging and practices, to boot).
Pictured (left to right): Dew Bronze, Glossybounce Hydrating Lip Gloss Oil, Slip Tint Tinted Moisturizer, Supersuede Baked Powder Blush.
When you're flying to and from college, you learn to pack efficiently and lightly to avoid the added fee and hassle of checked bags. Our college age daughter does all of her flights with one carry-on backpack and one personal item. She didn't even check a bag for a 5-day trip to Washington DC that required professional attire for her visits to Capitol Hill. She uses a Yeti backpack (that her aunt gave her) for a carry-on and will be using the Foldie for her personal item. It's spacious, simple, and carefully designed to comply with personal item dimensions on most air carriers.
She'll feel motivated, strong, and ready-to-run with expertly engineered athletic footwear and attire by Tracksmith. Designed for serious runners, these pieces are created with movement in mind. The materials are carefully selected to be streamlined, lightweight, super breathable, and silky soft. Although Tracksmith items make especially perfect gifts for track and cross-country athletes, they're also the right pick for girls who love to spend time at the gym or on the court (basketball, volleyball, tennis, etc).
Pictured (left to right): Trackhouse Midweight Crew, Twilight Long Sleeve, Eliot Runner, Session Tank, Twilight Tank.
Cozy Earth is taking the Christmas season by storm with their ethically made, responsibly crafted, and premium quality loungewear and pajamas. They are fabulously soft and impossibly lightweight for a luxury feel that will be welcomed by any young woman.
Ankle-height boots are 100% in-vogue this winter and she'll love the durability and water protection of the Fields Chelsea Boot by Chaco. Although they offer all-day comfort and "all grip, no slip" traction, they're also indisputably stylish. Easy to dress up or down, she'll be able to wear these to class, to interviews, or to her part-time job - especially in rainy, sleety, snowy, or slippery weather.
Quick dry towels are the best graduation gift (or Christmas gift for a college student)! Because they are ultra-observant and fast-drying, they stay fresh for days - even in humid weather or stuffy dorm rooms. These are way better than your standard fluffy towel! Once you have one, you'll never want to go camping or dorm-ing without one.
Music lovers will get a kick out of this tiny, portable, clip-on speaker that packs a big punch. It's easy to carry around anywhere you want to listen to music - the beach, the pickleball courts, your next camping trip, even the shower (it's waterproof!).
If you have a gym rat in the house, they'll love receiving comfy, high-performance athletic attire and footwear. Although you may be familiar with TYR for their swim goggles and gear, they also have a strong selection of joggers, hoodies, tees, trainers, leggings, and shorts.
Pictured (left to right): Women's Techknit RNR-1 Trainer, Women's CXT-2 Court Trainer, UltraSoft Women's Heavyweight Terry Jogger.
If your teen is preparing for the SAT, you’ve probably heard of Kaplan. With more than 80 years of experience helping students reach their goals, Kaplan has earned the trust of families who want proven results, expert instruction, and flexible learning options. Their SAT courses are designed to build confidence, improve scores, and prepare students for college success.
Kaplan offers several course formats to match different learning styles and schedules:
● Self-Paced On-Demand: Students can learn anytime with engaging video lessons, practice questions, and quizzes.
● Live Online Classes: Interactive sessions with expert teachers who keep students motivated and on track.
● Bootcamp Intensives: A fast-paced option for students who want to prepare efficiently before test day.
● One-on-One Tutoring or Unlimited Prep: Personalized coaching for students aiming for top scores and more competitive college admissions.
Our 16-year-old daughter had this to say about her experience with Kaplan standardized test prep, "I have found Kaplan to be an incredibly helpful source for both act and sat prep. The zoom recordings are useful in learning the specific skills and strategies to do well on the tests. There are also practice quizzes and tests you can take to help you improve your skill!"
Such a smart gift from a parent or grandparent to a college-bound teen!
Norse Organics' Complete Acne Killer System is taking the internet by storm. The 4-tin set incorporates powerful natural ingredients, which are designed to combat acne as quickly and gently as possible with longterm results. No hormone disrupters, no parabens, no chemicals, non-GMO.
You've never heard of this brand, but your girl's gonna love these shoes! These brightly colored sneakers by ALLSWIFIT are adorable, vibrant, and crazy comfortable. Don't worry about brand name recognition. These sneakers will be your new best friend for walking, workouts, and leisure activities. They offer great heel, arch, and ankle support - and you can easily put them on hands-free!
Stumped about what to get a teen in your life for Christmas? Think of the sports they play and by some corresponding gear (bags, jerseys, pads, balls, etc). Tandem Sports offers versatile, thoughtfully-designed products to help volleyball players stay safe, stylish, and injury-free on the court. Both of my teen girls (ages 13 & 16) love this brand and use these items daily during volleyball season.
Pictured (left to right): Volleyball Elbow Pads, Volleyball Arm Sleeves, Volleyball Kneepads, Padded Arm Sleeves.
Thread Wallet is a brand that is made for high school and college students. They create fashionable + practical products while also supporting the Carry On Foundation, which launched in 2022 to teach resilience and promote mental health through action sports.
Teen girls will love the vibrant orange of the Honey Utility Tote Bag - featuring a water-resistant exterior, an internal water bottle holder and laptop sleeve, plus three additional internal pockets. For stocking stuffers, pick up the vibrant, floral lanyards and matching wallets for everyday use.
Pictured (left to right): Honey Utility Tote Bag, Blossom Neck Lanyard, Blossom Zipper Wallet, Blossom Wrist Lanyard.
A new pair of casual sneakers is a slam-dunk gift for any age - but particularly for teens & college students! They'll love the fresh look and comfy, memory foam insoles of the Sport Court 2.0 by Skechers.
She'll be poised to bring back retro transportation around campus with skates by Roller Derby! Available in a wide variety of fun patterns and nostalgic colors, Roller Derby offers skates in sizes 3-13 for both indoor and outdoor use. Need to get to class in a jiffy? Roller Derby's got you covered. Skates are also a great fitness option for use near the beach, at parks, or even at the local roller rink!
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Some of the listed products were sent to us to try. Other products are ones that we purchased ourselves or were given by family members and friends. Know that I only recommend products and brands that we actually use and love.
Welcome to Metropolitan Mama’s Christmas Gift Guide for Kids (ages 8-12). Below you will find clothes, shoes, toys, gear, and games that elementary and early middle school kids are bound to love for Christmas 2025.
Of Note: You typically won't find very many toys on my gift guide lists. That's because I am in strong favor of useful and/or experiential gifts. I'm not a fan of gifting things that provide momentary interest, but then are quickly broken or stuffed in a corner. Instead, you'll find gifts with staying power that can be used for years and even passed down to younger siblings.
Get ready for family photos and Christmas brunch with Vineyard Vines! Kids' sizes are available from 2T to 18 with some matching items available in adult sizes as well. The pieces are polished, crisp, and professional while being comfortable enough to wear out and about for play as well.
Pictured (left to right): Girls' Bow Back Sweater, Girls' Sequin Tiered Skirt, Girls' Wide Leg Corduroy Pants (perfect for school too!), Boys' Performance St. Jean Stripe Sankaty Polo, Boys' Performance On-the-Go Pants, Boys' Solid Rugby Shirt.
We picked two adorable 18-inch dolls to feature for Christmas 2025. They are surprisingly affordable and on-sale now!
Hollie is one of four Limited Edition dolls for holiday 2025! Inspired by The Nutcracker, Hollie is so pretty with glossy blonde locks, hazel eyes with glittery eyeshadow, and a festive, gold-trimmed dress. She's pretty enough to display as holiday decor in between play sessions.
It's hard to find handsome boy dolls and we are smitten by Our Generation's Milo. He has olive-toned skin, amber eyes, and tousled curly brown hair. This guy is ready for adventure and comes with great accessories, including sunglasses, a suitcase, a passport and boarding pass, a smoothie, a video game console, and chewing gum.
For a gift that will be both loved and used all year round, consider a stainless steel or silicone bento lunchbox for school! With a bento box, you can encourage healthy portion sizes and a variety of nutrients. Plus, bento boxes help you to cut back on (or eliminate the use of) ziploc bags, which saves you both time and money.
Some of our favorite items from LunchBots: medium duo, 2.5 oz dips, large build-a-bento, large cinco.
Keep those bento boxes safe and temperature-stable with Arctic Zone's high-performance lunchboxes. Our kids pack their bento boxes (see above!) and then put them inside these insulated boxes, which stay cold for 6-12 hours, even here in sunny Arizona.
Our 9-year-old loves "things to do" books and Highlights offers the best-of-the-best in this category. The Highlights Book of Things to Write and The Highlights Book of Things to Draw offer engaging prompts, drawing spaces, mazes, challenges, and word puzzles to entertain kids for hours.
Be sure to also consider The Highlights Book of Things to Do, which is the ultimate "things to do" book (the best one we have found, in fact!). It's filled to the brim with engaging, age-appropriate, boredom-busting activities!
Kids who have pen pals will be instantly drawn to this adorable miniature stationery set by Ooly. The box comes with 6 notecards, 6 envelopes, and 6 sticker sheets - all pawfectly themed for puppy lovers!
Tired of having to carefully vet every single book that you pick up at your local library? Switch to the wholesome, gorgeous readers by The Good and The Beautiful. They live up to their name in that the books published by this company are both good (sweet, moral, clean) and beautiful (each book has lovely accompanying illustrations - many featuring stories from history).
Pictured (left to right): Heather and the Highland Pony*, Prince Percy and the Big Red Ruby, The Kingdom of Kind*, Timothy of the 10th Floor*. These are 2nd and 3rd grade readers, but they have many more for preschoolers all the way up through 12th grade.
Looking for a game that the whole family can play? Hedbanz is super easy to learn and perfect for parties with a gaggle of young children. Pick a headband, place a card in it, and ask questions to figure out what's shown on your card. Using yes/no questions, be the first to guess 3 cards correctly and you win!
Kinetic sand is the similar-but-better alternative to play-doh. It's made from real sand, is reusable, never dries out, and sticks together quickly for easy clean-up. Let their imagination run free with a big 2 lb bag of sand or pick up one of the thematic sets that allow you to make treats like waffles, ice cream, and soft serve!
Designed for growing kids, Roller Derby's Switch Adjustable Roller Skates offer a unique 2-in-1 experience, transforming from a training mode to inline skates as your child’s confidence builds. It's easy to switch between the modes! Plus, this gift has staying power due to the adjustable sizing (the skates grow with them)! With a durable hard-shell boot for stability and a padded comfort liner, your child can skate both indoors and outdoors. As a bonus, the skates come with matching protective gear, including knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards, which will help keep your little one safe while they learn and play! You can choose sizes 9-12 or 13-3. These skates are an exciting gift, which offer hours of athleticism and a cool way to get from here to there in the neighborhood or the park.
Every boy needs a classic ball cap for days at the park, the baseball field, or the backyard. US Polo Assn has 2 different designs - both priced at under $10!
Your little guy will look like he's headed off to Harvard, Wall Street, or a swanky corner office in these sophisticated styles from Janie & Jack. From polos and cardigans to bow ties and dress slacks, you'll find handsome styles for your son to wear all about town. Although the prices may be a smidge higher than other children's clothing retailers, they are also notably better in terms of both workmanship and design.
Pictured (left to right): The Polo Sweater, The Classic Peacoat, The Striped Oxford Shirt, Baggy Jean in Kingsley Wash, The Tartan Blazer, The Tartan Vest.
Camping kids will appreciate the warmth and versatility of the Honcho Poncho by Therm-a-Rest! It's oh-so-cozy, water-resistant, and ultra-packable.
Janie and Jack always manages to be remarkably on-trend. These pieces for girls have that perfectly sophistiqué look that will transcend time without being even a second outdated. Browse around to shop for holiday dresses, trendy denim, and tops in neutral colors with details that pop.
Pictured (left to right): The Golden Moment Dress, The Corduroy Overall, Floral Puff Sleeve Dress, Ribbed Puff Sleeve Top, Embroidered Eyelet Trim Top, Pointelle Sweater Polo.
If your child needs a boost in mastering sight words, phonograms, or spelling rules, consider the multi-sensory kits by Child1st Publications. They're specially designed to help visual learners master the building blocks of the English language.
I discovered Only Little Once several years ago and have been continuously impressed by both the costumes and the special occasion pieces for children. They're beautifully designed with an exquisite attention to details that will result in people asking, "Is that handmade?" and "Where did you buy that?" and "That material seems so comfortable!" In other words, this is the ideal brand for people who wish they could sew to make one-of-a-kind pieces, but don't have the time, inclination, or skills to do so.
Start your Christmas shopping at Carter's/OshKosh, one of our top shopping spots for kids of all ages (newborn through size 14). You'll find a huge variety of styles and colors for all occasion - from on-trend holiday dresses to everyday separates like graphic tees, wide leg jeans, and cropped pea coats. Carter's has really upped their game over the last few years when it comes to style. You won't be able to tell if the items are from Carter's or a high-end boutique in Hollywood. Shhh!
Pictured (Left to Right): Baggy Butterfly Embroidered Jeans, Ciao Bella Graphic Tee, Grey Fashion Jacket, Baggy Iconic Denim Carpenter Pants, Los Angeles Graphic Tee, Stripe Thermal Henley.
Your kids (and my kids!) have nutrition gaps. Grüns fills them. The kids version of these superfood green gummies are specially designed for ages 2-13 and have 20+ vitamins & minerals plus whole veggies, whole fruits, adaptogens, antioxidants, super mushrooms, and prebiotics. Bonus points for being completely sugar-free and adorably shaped as little bears.
I've said for years that my go-to gift for kids is a quality pair of new shoes! Super practical, but also sure to be appreciated. Emerald green is one of my favorite colors so these sneakers by Skechers immediately caught my attention, but they're also available in white and black.
It may be cold outside, but Christmas is the ideal time to give goggles to a child or teen on your list. A quality pair of goggles makes swimming so much more fun! TYR offers goggles at a variety of price points and with a myriad of features. Whether you're looking for mirrored lenses, anti-fog coating, removable nosebridges, or goggles for a particular age group, you'll find what you are looking for at TYR.
Meet Pindaloo! Challenging and fun - this simple toy teaches juggling skills with toss-and-catch play based on a simple loop principle. Once you master the basics, you'll find endless throwing and catching tricks for cool interactive and educational play. Designed to stimulate brain, eye, and hand activities!
Ravenburger has been delighting families with puzzles and games since 1883 and they seem to have a puzzle to match almost every theme - including fairy tales and Disney favorites! Puzzles are a satisfying, tech-free gift that have numerous health benefits, including reducing stress, improving memory, and sparking imagination.
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Some of the listed products were sent to us to try. Other products are ones that we purchased ourselves or were given by family members and friends. Know that I only recommend products and brands that we actually use and love.