*This post is dedicated to my sweet Granny. Today would have been her 87th birthday. This will be her sixth Christmas in heaven, but the memories of her sausage gravy and sparkly holiday sweaters live on!!
Last night we had what I hope will become a Chapman Family Christmas Tradition: We kicked off the start of Winter Break with a “finger foods” dinner (think carrot sticks, cheese, and pigs in a blanket) prepared by Sam and me, a pj-clad tour of Christmas lights, hot chocolate, popcorn, and a Christmas movie, and – the best part (according to Sam) – a family sleepover in the TV room by the glow of the tree’s lights. I’m tired today, but it was totally worth it.
Too busy jumping to pose for a picture! #purejoy
Today we’re going to a little Christmas party at our neighborhood library, then two parties tonight – one with extended family and one with friends. Hopefully Sunday will be a little less busy, but if not, oh well. Tis the season!! We can rest later! 🙂
What are your plans for the weekend?
I hadn’t really planned to do a Links & Likes post until after New Year since I’ve been doing so many “round up” type posts on the blog already; but, I realized there was still more I wanted to share so… Enjoy!
First, in case you *still* need gift ideas, here are my favorite Gift Guides from around the web:
A Cup of Jo – Her lists are always SO original – like this handblown Oregon mountain tumbler for your brother/dad/boyfriend.
Fancy Ashley – Her taste is so fun and stylish, so it’s not surprise that her gift ideas are too. I love these Mini Gem Pinata Tassel Drop earrings. Wouldn’t they be fun for New Year’s Eve?
Emily Ley – As your would expect, her gifts are classic, simple, and clean – For example, how beautiful is this Marble & Copper Monogram Board?
Oh Joy! – Her blog is so happy and quirky, and her gift guides are exactly the same way! Super fun ideas for the “non traditional” person on your list – like these Kate Spade book ends.
Now, onto this week’s Links:
“My President Was Black: A history of the first African American White House” in The Atlantic (January 2017 Edition) – This is more of a short book than an article, and I – admittedly – haven’t read the whole thing yet. But just the first few pages literally give me chills.
“How Investing in Preschools Beats the Stocked Market Hands Down”
Laura Vanderkam’s TED Talk: How to Gain Control of Your Free Time – love her, love this message/advice
And, on a somber note, here’s a great organization you can support to help in Aleppo.
Some Likes / More Great Gift Ideas:
Leopard Clutch (classic, sophisticated look at a very reasonable price)
These earrings are amazing (and inexpensive)
Sock Club (such a fun gift idea – use code HAPPYHOUR for 15% off)
Loft is 50% off EVERYTHING. I just bought this shirt to wear to our parties tomorrow night with a festive statement necklace and black pants.
Jeff orders these for us and our parents’ every year with our favorite Instagram photos. (Today’s the last day for free shipping/Christmas delivery!)
Sam just got this from our babysitter yesterday, and he loves it. (I think it’s pretty awesome too honestly.) *He got the whole Osmo kit last Christmas, and it’s seriously one of my favorite things he owns – I can’t recommend it highly enough!
Speaking of fun things for kids, I saw this fort building kit this week and think it is so cool. It’s usually $40, but 50% off at JCPenney this week, making it a great deal!
Did you see my Instagram of the canvases I ordered for our house of our family Christmas photos? I’ll share more here once I get them hung etc.; but, in the meantime, you should know that Mixbook is offering 50% off today only with code JOY (and there’s still time for Christmas delivery if you hurry)!
And, last but not least, some important reminders:
– If you are a teacher (or just know an awesome one) make SURE you enter my Dream Teacher Gift Basket Giveaway from Thursday. I have absolutely loved “meeting” so many of you in the comments, keep em coming!!!
– Speaking of teachers, my ebook on maternity leave for teachers is on super sale through Christmas for just $4.99 with the code MERRY. Grab it here!!!
– I’m finishing up my holiday newsletter and will have it ready to go out on Monday. In it, I’ll be sharing a sneak peek at our Christmas card this year, giving an update on how our Advent plans have been going at home, sharing another easy teaching idea, and previewing a little of the content I have planned for this space in 2017. If you aren’t already signed up, make sure you do so – in the sidebar or by clicking here – before Monday
Enjoy your weekend!
E