Monday, November 17, 2025

Part II: Wishlist

Wishlist goodies! What's on your wishlist?

  1. Quality candles - I love this one by Flamingo Estate. Anything musky, nature-inspired, refreshing, and calming. 
  2. Body care products - fragrant body washes and moisturizer products, like this one from Salt + Stone
  3. Hand soaps, hand creams - I've been really into hand and body care. This one from Grown Alchemist is a great duo for keeping in the guest bathroom.
  4. Hasami Porcelain products - Plates, cups, dishware, mugs, etc. I've been loving the look and texture of Japanese Hasami Porcelains. See ones from Acadia and more accessible shops, like Garmentory.
  5. Quality cutting board - It's time for a new cutting board. I've been eyeing a wooden block board, like this one from Boo's
  6. Metal Tube Squeezer - This is a random product that adds a nice little value to your toothpaste and hand cream tubes. I'm looking for one that's quality, like this one from Izamaya.
  7. Home slippers - I could never have enough. Quality cashmere slippers, like this one from Restoration Hardware.
  8. Japanese Rice Cooker Earthenware Pot - I'm switching over from electronic or induction rice cookers, and looking into earthenware pots from Japan. I like this Kamado-san Donabe one from Jinen.


I also created a farfetched wishlist for fun, if the budget had no limit...
  1. Rimowa luggage - Either the trunk plus or check-in large, for international travels.
  2. Rug - A rich, quality rug from an artisan. I love this Lokesh wool and silk rug from Restoration Hardware.
  3. Bottega Veneta Andiamo - Probably on my list for the longest. I love the Large or East-West in fondant, both great investment pieces.
  4. Ottoman sofa - I'd love to extend our couch and add an ottoman for extra leg room and use. I love this one from Maiden Home.
  5. Bespoke Airdresser - I saw this Samsung Airdresser in use for the first time several years ago and had added it to our wishlist, post-home purchase. A modern solution to dry cleaning pieces.
  6. The Row Ginza Shoes - No longer in shelves, but it's a classic. I love this elevated flip flop from The Row.

Thursday, November 13, 2025

Part I: Gifts Under $40

A several part series for every special person in your life. 

First up, singular small gifts under $40 - perfect for coworkers, friends, stocking stuffers, etc.


  1. Yeti Ramblers - 8oz ($25) - The perfect tumbler for friends who love a compact cappuccino to start their day. The Magslide feature is a simple signature of Yeti's and makes for a great cup that fits in the palm of your hand. (Link)
  2. Lore Perfume - 'Somewhere but Nowhere' ($28) - Newly discovered fragrance line that smells earthy, woodsy, wintery, and perfect for the holiday season. Comes in a compact, travel size spray with an accessible grip. (Link)
  3. Sabre Butter Knife - Set of 2 ($38) - Sabre is a classic French cutlery brand that deserves a place in your kitchen. The signature Bistrot line is perfect for your everyday setup. (Link)
  4. Moleskin Classic Notebook ($22) - I can't count the number of these notebooks I've purchased over the years. Moleskin's Classic hardcover notebook is a trusted companion for journalists, notetakers, and doodlers everywhere. (Link)
  5. Merit Signature Lightweight Lipstick ($26) - This is the adult lipstick I'd purchase over and over again. Beautifully matte, auburn brown 'MLBB', fall edition. (Link)
  6. Goodies Marble Coaster Set ($25) - If you know, Goodies always delivers fine goods at low costs. But, these coasters are truly a delicacy. A set of beautiful marble coasters that fit neatly into the container for only $25. (The website says sold out, but I am usually able to find them in stores.) (Link)
  7. Erewhon Glass Containers ($15) - Perfect for the corporate 9-5 friend, coworker, or gym buddy who meal preps. Highly durable, heavy duty and spill proof. (Link)
Godspeed!

Weekly Gems

  1.  Short and Sweet by Brittany Howard. Everything by Brittany Howard is a whole experience of its own.
  2. Dirty Chai's
  3. Walking around the neighborhood in the rain
  4. The Way of Integrity by Martha Beck
  5. Jovi, Nori and Goose

The xx - I Dare You