November Wishlist and Life Update
Surprise, I’m back!
I know, you probably thought I died. Alas, I have just been totally off so far this month. Ya know what I mean? I’m engrossed in the job hunt, adjusting to daylight savings, and just overall TIRED. I’m not gonna lie, guys, I am just not feeling it. I need to refer back to my self-care ideas for fall and take my own damn advice.
Anyway, I mentioned a life update. As I mentioned on Instagram a couple of weeks ago, I started looking for a “real job.” After going on a pretty long sabbatical to stay home with Elliot, our expenses have finally caught up with us a bit, and wouldn’t ya know it, they raised our property tax again, so things are tight around here, to say the least.
But, being a stay-at-home mom has left me a little out of touch with the business world. My interviewing skills are pretty rusty, and apparently my resume is “outdated,” according to the analysis I got from one of the career websites I’m on. Yeesh. So I’ve decided, since apparently work experience is not enough, that I’m going to work on getting my Accounting certificate to supplement my Associate’s degree. Hopefully I can get a decent-paying job before that, but I think that will definitely help me advance in my career.
Artful Ambler isn’t going anywhere though! I’m going to try to have at least one good post for you guys each week (and by good, I mean something other than a wish list, like this week). But you’ll have to bear with me while I get my head settled.
In other news…
I’m working on a meal planner for you guys! I posted on Facebook awhile back asking what your biggest struggles were as a mom/homemaker, and one of them was meal planning on a regular basis. I know the struggle when you have picky kids, not enough time, or you’re just too damn tired. So pretty soon, I’m going to be sharing with you my method for meal planning which gets dinner on the table every night and avoids wasting money on takeout. Because I’ve been there, girrrrl. But this isn’t going to be just any meal planner. It will have a monthly/weekly layout, a reference list so you don’t forget any items when you’re making your shopping list, a special menu planning page (think Thanksgiving), a favorite recipes log, and much more! I can’t wait to share it with you!
Now, let’s move on to the wish list portion of this post. We’re already a week into November, which means the Christmas music is already playing in many a household. I am definitely not that lady (I spent too many years in retail to be excited about Christmas this early), but I do love shopping, so I have been poking around for some things to add to my wish list.
Pro Tip:
If your significant other has a hard time finding gifts for you, do them a favor and put yourself together an Amazon wish list. I did this a couple years ago for my hubby (and I asked him to do one for me, too), and it’s so helpful! I pick out both small-ticket and big-ticket items and categorize them in different lists so he has a good variety to choose from depending on the occasion and budget. He comes up with some pretty amazing gifts all on his own, but I think it helps when you have a plan B ;)
This past week I have been attracted to all things velvet and shiny, in the true spirit of the holidays. These items are great for your holiday wardrobe, holiday entertaining, or just for perking you up a bit in between all the busy-ness. So let’s get to it!
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means, at no extra cost to you, I receive a small commission when you click on certain links below, or if you make purchases as a result of visiting the retailers directly from my website. Please note, I only recommend products that I truly love and think that my readers will also love.
Delicate Hair Accessories
Velvet Bow Hair Clip Set
Anthropologie - $18
Normally I’m not a hair accessory person. Like, I’m lucky if my hair is even styled, much less accessorized. But there’s something so chic and simple about these little velvet bows in their gorgeous autumnal palette, that I can’t help but want them. You could just throw one into a French twist or sweep your fringe to the side, and voila! You’re instantly put-together. P.S.: These would make a great stocking-stuffer for the girls in your life, and if you don’t like warm colors, these come in some gorgeous blues as well.
Gilded Serveware
Farrah Spatula
Anthropologie - $16
A hint of gold is an easy way to glam up your Thanksgiving table, and I love the simplicity of these utensils from Anthropologie. They’re not technically “serveware,” but if you’re looking for a low-key way to get a little sparkly, these are the perfect addition to your kitchen.
TLC for your eyes
Bliss Holographic Foil Eye Masks
Target - $4
You’ve undoubtedly seen the foil sheet masks that are the latest thing on the beauty market. I haven’t tried one myself yet, but you can bet your sweet ass I’ve been eyeing them. My biggest trouble spot is my eyes. Not only am I prone to dark circles, but I have dry skin, so my eyes can go downhill really fast. I’ve been using hydrogel under-eye masks, which are a huge help when my eyes are feeling extra tired. These little babies are like a hybrid between hydro-gels, and the foil sheet masks. Not to mention, they’re holographic, so you can disco while you’re treating your skin. Winning!
stark-worthy baubles
Sansa Drop Earrings
BaubleBar - $38
Okay, I couldn’t help but sneak in a GoT pun when I saw that these beauties were called the “Sansa” earrings. But regardless of the name, how gorgeous are these? The burnished gold tone and moonstone-style crystals add a great bohuxe (bohemian-luxe. No? Okay.) vibe to your holiday outfits. Or you could just be extra and wear them to Target, because why not? Doooooo iiiiiiit!
party shoes
velvet block heel sandals
Gap - $63
Every girl needs a good pair of party shoes. These sandals from Gap have a block heel, for comfortable wear, and a delicate gold velvet upper, to add the perfect amount of shine.
a posh blazer
Gallery Velvet Blazer
Anthropologie - $148
I used to have a couple of velvet blazers that my aunt gave me several years ago. I’ve since grown out of them, but I wish I could still wear them, because there’s something about a velvet blazer that just oozes sex appeal. I’m not over here trying to be the sexy mom, but for a night out with hubs, this jacket over a simple lace cami and some black cigarette trousers is the perfect combo. The earthy gray color will go with anything, and the high shine of the fabric is just amazing. You could also dress this down with jeans for a low-key holiday. Bonus: It also comes in the most gorgeous berry color.
Well, that’s it for me this week. What items are one your wish list for the holidays? Let me know in the comments!
Much Love,
