Partnering with REBAG to Make Your Handbag Dreams Come True

I’ve shared recently about my love for purses and handbags. But, it’s time for me to let you in a little secret. I’ve found a way to make sure I always have the newest, most desirable handbags season after season. I have discovered Rebag and my handbag collection will never be the same, which is why I’m partnering with Rebag, the ultimate destination to sell your luxury handbags and sharing my secret with you.

Why Rebag is Unique

Photo: @rebagofficial

At this point, we are all familiar with consignment shops and Rent The Runway. What makes Rebag different from these online stores is that it works to make sure you are constantly able to refresh your handbag collection by allowing you to sell your purses, exchange them, or earn credit for other Rebag handbags. It is THE luxury handbag destination.

Rebag is unique because they:

• Generate upfront price quotes

• Purchase bags outright (no consignment hassles)

• Pay via check or direct deposit instantly

The Easy Way Rebag Works

Photo: @rebagofficial

Rebag has made it super easy to sell the handbags you are no longer in love with. All you need to do is take photos of the bag you want to sell and submit them to the app or website. Then, Rebag will provide a quote. At this point, you deliver your used handbag to Rebag.

Upon approval, you will receive instant payment. Approval also isn’t a huge worry like other resale shops because they provide clear guidelines for approval. Trust me - Rebag is the simplest and most straightforward way to sell your handbag. When submitting a bag to sell, use my code RachelChoy for preferred pricing.

Ladies of NYC, Rebag is Handbag Heaven!

Photo: @rebagofficial

If you live in NYC, Rebag is going to be your new favorite thing. When you sell a bag, you can have your bag picked up from your home OR you can visit one of their retail locations to receive an instant quote and immediate payment. It can not get any easier. Plus, a visit to their retail locations is like a trip to handbag heaven! You can even opt to exchange your Rebag handbag at at a Rebag Bar within 6 months to receive at least 70% of the purchase price.

Plus, Rebag is Granting Wishes for Women Across the US

For those ladies who do not call NYC home, Rebag is still the perfect option for keeping your handbag collection fresh. They offer free shipping anywhere else in the US. All you have to do is use their app or website. Get preferred pricing for your handbags with my code RachelChoy when you submit them for a quote at Rebag.com.

It’s Never Been Easier to Have an Endless Collection of Luxury Handbags

No woman wants to carry the same bag all the time. Here’s a way to have a new bag right when you want one without breaking your budget.

For when your it-bag becomes your forget about it bag. Sell your handbags on Rebag.com using my code RachelChoy to receive preferred pricing!

Why Purses are the Perfect Fashion Accessory

Women are spending more money than ever before on purses and handbags – a lot more. According to one study, “US women spent $11.5 billion (£7.9 million) on handbags last year.” We love our purses and the fashion industry is noticing. Today, purses are seen as status symbols with women willing to spend a nice chunk of change on designer purses. Studies show I am not the only one.

As Caroline Cox explains, “It's partly because they've become a unique outward statement of a woman's status, fashion savvy and earning power - and the rising popularity of handbags over the past 100 years has followed the increasing social independence of their owners.”

Just a Few of the Reasons Women Love Purses

All women know the importance of a owning a purse. It is necessary for holding the things we need daily and in case of emergency. Most women would feel naked without her purse – I sure would! But, there are far more reasons for purse love than simple storage.

• The right purse can dress up any outfit.

• Purses come in so much variety – size, shape, color, material, and cost all vary greatly. This allows women to pick out a purse that is more personal to her taste and a reflection of her style.

• You can change out your purse as often as you’d like – much easier than changing your hair. Purses can change depending on your outfit, the occasion, or the season.

• Purses look good on all women – no matter your size.

• Purses are now viewed as investment pieces. Women are willing to spend more on purses for this very reason.

Some of My Current Favorite Purses

Since women aged between 18-45 own an average of 13 handbags from seven different brands, you should not bat an eye when I share some of my favorite purses with you. I’m betting you have several in your closet, too.

I am in love with my Delvaux purses. These purses are all high quality, fine leather. Plus, they are the official purveyor to the Royal Court of Belgium.

My love for my Loewe bag knows now end. All the heart eyes for this one.

Fendi is known for stylish handbags like this one. I love the shock of color.

If you haven’t figure it out by now, I am a huge fan of pink. This one from Celine makes my pink-loving heart happy.

Ultimately, women are purchasing purses for style and quality rather than merely purchasing for a brand logo. While I am all about a designer bag, even I know quality and style trumps a logo. But, when I find the perfect combination of designer plus style and quality, I know it is a win!

Shout out your purse love in the comments!

Why Every Woman Needs to Celebrate Galentine’s Day

Ladies, we need one another. It’s been said that “Behind every successful woman is a tribe of other successful women who have her back.” I don’t know where I’d be without my girlfriends. As much as I love my husband and my daughters, I crave alone time with my friends.

As everyone uses February as an excuse to celebrate the ones the love, I absolutely have to include my girlfriends. I love having a special opportunity to celebrate our friendship – now commonly referred to as Galentine’s Day. If you are not familiar with Galentine’s Day, allow me to introduce you to your new favorite holiday.

Why All the Hype Around Galentine’s Day

Galentine’s Day was officially coined by the character Leslie Knope on the television show “Parks and Recreation,” which was celebrated on February 13th (the day BEFORE Valentine’s Day). The character on the show proclaims:

"Every February 13, my lady friends and I leave our husbands and our boyfriends at home, and we just come and kick it, breakfast-style. Ladies celebrating ladies."

However, even if you are not a fan of the show, you can still celebrate the holiday. Trust us. Galentine’s Day is officially becoming a thing – even Martha Stewart and Gwyneth Paltrow’s GOOP feature articles on how to throw a Galentine’s Day party.

5 Wonderful Ways to Celebrate with Your Favorite Gal Pals

For those of us who don’t have the time to pull off a Martha Stewart or Gwyneth Paltrow level soiree for Galentine’s Day, I’ve come up with five things you can do to celebrate the most important women in your life. The ultimate goal is to have fun and celebrate your friendships.

1. A Simple Party at Home

Kick your husband and kids out of the house and host a simple brunch or dinner party for your besties. Choose your favorite foods and make a signature cocktail. You know your crew better than anyone else, so do whatever makes you all happy and relaxed.

2. Enjoy Some Pampering at the Spa

Nothing screams Galentine’s Day as much as getting mani’s and pedi’s with your gal pals. Book appointments for your nearest and dearest in advance and enjoy some pampering at your favorite spa or nail salon.

3. Head to Your Favorite Restaurant

If you don’t want to cook or clean, opt for making a reservation for your group of ladies at one of your favorite restaurants. Just make sure it is a grown-up spot – one you would not usually go to with the kids.

4. Go On a Treat Yo’ Self Shopping Adventure

If your girlfriends love to shop as much as mine, then a shopping trip may be the perfect treat for Galentine’s Day. Empty the trunk and head to your favorite shopping spots. Then, shop ‘til you drop (and fill up those trunks!)

5. Indulge in a Wine Tasting

For the wine lovers, leave the family at home and head to a winery with your closest female friends. If there isn’t a winery nearby, you can host a wine tasting in your home either on your own or with he help of a company like Traveling Vineyard.

7 Things Your Man Actually Wants This Valentine’s Day

Let’s be honest, ladies. Valentine’s Day is really for us. Most men will claim they don’t even want anything at all for Valentine’s Day. But, since Valentine’s Day is the quintessential couples’ holiday, it just feels wrong not to give the man you love something special.

Ultimately, your guy just wants you to show that you love him. How you choose to show him that he still makes your heart beat fast is all up to you, but you can’t go wrong with any of these 7 gifts.

A Day Off

All men want a day off from everything and everyone now and then. As adults, it is harder than ever to get away from it all. If your man is always busy at work and then coming home to complete a honey-do list around the house, give a coupon for a day off. It will show him you love him and appreciate how hard he works.

A Good Meal Cooked by You

A fancy dinner out is always nice, but most men will be just as happy (maybe even more so) with a home cooked meal. Choose to cook his favorite dishes or order a meal kit from Hello Fresh.

Beer, Wine, Whiskey

A man will never scoff at his lady gifting him his favorite spirit. Just be sure you splurge on something nicer than what he normally buys. He will be impressed with your knowledge of his tastes and your willingness to spoil him.

Tickets to a Sports Game or Comedy Show

Look for tickets to an upcoming show that he will love – even if it doesn’t take place on Valentine’s Day. Giving him tickets to see his favorite team play or hear his favorite comedian live will be an experience he will never forget.

His Favorite Sweet Treat

A way to a man’s heart is his belly – even in small doses. Your man will know you love him if you give him his favorite sweet treat such as baking his favorite cake or showing up with doughnuts from his favorite shop.

A Love Letter

Women are often the ones on the receiving end of love letters, but men love them just as much. Your husband will be overcome with emotion as he receives a beautifully written love letter from his wife. Take time to be sure your letter is full of compliments, affirmations, and funny inside jokes. It will be a gift he never throws away and rereads year after year.

S-E-X

Come on, you know I had to say it. What your man wants the most is some alone time with you in between the sheets! Honestly, you don’t even have to give him a gift if you turn up the heat in the bedroom.

So, ladies, what do you plan to give your man this Valentine’s Day? Is there a gift you have given your husband that he loved? Let me know in the comments.

Does Your Skin Have the Winter Weather Blues? Here are My Best Tips

I love the changing seasons – especially winter. I love the snow and the excuse to cuddle under warm blankets. I especially love having clear reasons to wear all my favorite winter clothing items and accessories like boots and scarves.

What I don’t like about winter is the way it wreaks havoc on my skin. As all women know, the chill of the winter air leaves our skin feeling dry, itchy, and chapped. And who wants that?! After dealing with dry skin and NYC winters, I have learned some tricks to make my skin feel soft and nourished even on the coldest, driest days.

I’m sharing my winter skin wisdom with you below.

Moisturize and Moisturize Some More

As the winter air dries out your skin, you can battle the dryness by using moisturizers all day long every single day. Put on a good moisturizer after you shower. Keep lotions in your purses, on your nightstand, and in your car. Anytime you feel dry, lotion up. I love Olay Whips to keep my skin feeling soft and nourished all winter long.

Avoid Hot Water Baths and Showers

Yes, you are cold, and nothing sounds better than a hot, steamy shower. Unfortunately, those hot showers only dry your skin out even more. Instead, use lukewarm water for your showers and washing your face. You’ll thank me later.

Lip Balm is Your Winter BFF

My lips are constantly dry day and night during the wintertime, so I always have lip balm nearby. On my nightstand, in every one of my purses, in the pockets of my coats, and the car. I like to use Blistex Superfruit Soothers because it includes ingredients with antioxidants and vitamins C & E. Plus, with SPF 15, it protects my lips from even more protection.

Just Because It Is Cold Does Not Mean the Sun Doesn’t Shine

Too many people forget to wear SPF during the winter because they mistakenly believe that since it is cold, the sun doesn’t shine. Wrong! You should use SPF every day, including the winter. Plus, the sun reflects off snow and ice and can do damage to your skin.

Drink Water All Day Long Every Day

Possibly the best way to keep your skin hydrated during the winter is to drink water. Healthy skin is just one of the many benefits of drinking water. You can also use water-based products like Neutrogena Hydro Blast Water Gel to keep your skin hydrated in the winter.

Switch Out Your Summer Products for Winter Ones

Last but not least, you need to change out your beauty and skincare products. As much as we love our products, this is something we neglect to do. The stuff you put on your skin in the summer should be different than the stuff you put on your skin in the winter. Why? In winter, you need products that moisturize whereas in summer you need products that keep you from being oily. Likewise, since winter air is hard on your lips, it is best to skip matte lipsticks.

What tips do you have for having beautiful radiant skin during the winter?

These Boots are Made for Walking

Boots make me happy. As a shoe lover, I want my feet to look just as stylish in the winter as they do in the summer. Boots give my feet added warmth during the winter, but they also all chic and trendy. Paired with slim fit pants or a short skirt, boots take an outfit from cute to attention-grabbing. Plus, boots never go out of style.

Today, there are more styles than ever before giving you multiple options. They come in various heights and heel styles. Add in all the different fabric and color choices, and you can practically have a different pair of boots for every outfit.

Why Every Woman Needs a Few Pairs of Boots

Every woman should own at least one pair of boots, but truly, women need more than one pair. With their versatility, you really need boots of different styles. The right pair of boots can dramatically change the overall look of your outfit. Any excuse for more shoes is reason enough, am I right?

Some of My Favorite Winter Boot Styles

Today, I’m sharing some of my favorite winter boot styles. They vary in style, designer, and cost. Browse through the pics and let me know in the comments which ones are your favorites.

Knit Grosgain Booties from Chanel

Winter White Boots by Gianvito Rossi

Gianvito Rossi Boots

Black Combat Boots by Chanel

Fendi Boots

Tory Burch Slouchy Boots

Christian Louboutin Animal Print Boots

Isabel Marant Dicker Suede Ankle Boots

Tory Burch Brooke Booties

How to Store Your Phenomenal Boot Collection

After browsing the above pics of fabulous boots, I bet you are thinking about how to make room for all the new boots you are getting ready to purchase. Naturally, boots take up more closet space than your strappy stilettos. But the space issue is worth it for the perfect pair of boots that will warm your toes and make your heart happy.

First things first, boots need to be stored in a position that ensures they stay straight and shaped. You can do this by stuffing your boots yourself or by purchasing boot shapers. If you cannot fit your boots in your closet shoe organizer, consider purchasing boot hangers. Boot hangers work as boot fillers, but they have a hanger so that the boots can be hung from your closet rod.

Finally, find ways to store your winter boots in the offseason. Purchase storage boxes designed for boots. For example, the Container Store sells a clear plastic boot box. These boxes are large enough for boots of all heights, and they have room to fit boots that have been filled so they won’t lose their shape while in storage.

My New Year’s Resolution for 2019 – Be More Selfish

The end of 2018 and the beginning of 2019 is the perfect time to reflect and make changes. It is for this obvious reason that many people make new year’s resolutions. But, we all have had a year when we’ve made too many resolutions (or just the wrong ones) and failed miserably.

So, this year I am going in a different direction. Rather than making resolutions to lose X number of pounds, work out X number of times a week, or save X amount of money, I’ve decided to resolve to do something for me. This is the year I am going to be more selfish. I am making resolutions to help me be my best self. And, to be my best self might mean I need to make some selfish choices - choices that prioritize my own needs.

Hear me out – I do not think we should aim to be selfish people. That isn’t exactly a good quality. However, there will be years when you are simply tired after juggling so much. And, this year I am ready to let go of some of the busyness that comes from doing so much for so many. This is the year of me.

I’m going to quit my full-time job.

My major goal for this year is to quit my full-time job. I love to work, but I am at a point in my life where I would like to work a bit less. I want more space in my schedule to do things. Even better – I believe this is a goal I will achieve.

I’m going to a take a long vacation.

This will be the year I take a true, long vacation. On my longer vacations in the past, I tend to end up having to do some work — not this year. I will find time to take a true vacation that will leave me feeling completely rejuvenated.

I’m going to practice radical self-care.

This year I am going to prioritize my own health. That means if I have to let someone down because it is more important for me to go to yoga, so be it. If I feel overwhelmed, I will say no easily and readily. I am stocking up on self-care supplies – everything from healthy options to wine and chocolate – and using these things whenever I am feeling depleted.

I’m going to do more of what makes me happy.

In 2019, I want to spend more time doing things that make me happy. I am going to invest in experiences that make me smile and laugh. I am going to go places that leave me awestruck. I am going to enjoy the hobbies I love.

I’m going to prioritize spending time with my family.

I am going to prioritize spending time with my family – even when that means saying no to a work requirement or an added event on the calendar. I plan to spend time with my loved ones doing the things that remind of us of the best things about family life.

I’m going to let go of guilt.

Finally, I will not feel guilty for being selfish. I will not feel guilty for politely saying no when something asks me for something that I cannot give. I will not feel guilty for loving my “me time” or my time alone with my family.

What is your 2019 resolution? Let me know in the comments1

I Took a Mental Health Day and It Was Glorious!

Life is crazy. This is why I think it is important every now and then to totally check out and have a day away from everything. I’m not talking about a vacation – I am talking about a day for you to take care of yourself. Some people refer to these as “mental health days.”

As more professionals are stressing the importance of self-care, it is more acceptable to take mental health days than it was before. Now, employers understand that if they want their workers to do their best work, they need downtime to get refreshed.

As a working mom, it is super important that I practice self-care. I have to take care of myself so that I can take care of my family. And, there is absolutely nothing wrong with taking a day to myself. Recently, I took a mental health day, and it was glorious!

Here is What I Did on My Day Off

Below, I am recounting some of the things I did on my last day to myself. I hope these inspire you to take your own day off and enjoy some much-needed time for yourself.

Let the in-laws handle the kids.

As a mom, I rarely ever have true “days off.” Moms are always on duty – even when we have a day off work. However, it is important now and then to take a mom break, too. On my day off, my in-laws generously offered to take the girls for the day. That even included them handling school drop-offs and pick-ups. It was ah-mazing!

Ate lunch and dinner with my husband.

I enjoyed grown-up meals with my hubby without having to rush. I didn’t have to choose a restaurant that was kid-friendly. My husband and I ate leisurely and enjoyed great adult conversation.

Went for a massage and facial.

While my husband took a much-needed nap, I headed to the spa for a massage and facial. It felt wonderful to have someone taking care of me for a change! With a busy work schedule and family events, it can be difficult to squeeze in time for the spa, so it is always a special treat when I get to go.

Sat in the coffee shop.

Most moms know the difficulty of enjoying a hot cup of coffee. With everything on our plates, we seldom get to simply sit and enjoy a cup of coffee – let alone in a coffee shop! On my off day, I made sure to go to my favorite coffee shop and enjoy my drink while it was still hot.

Did not check in virtually.

The whole point of a mental health day is to take care of your mental health by stepping away from work. For me, this means I need to check out virtually. On my day off, I made sure I left my devices at home. I did not check my phone, my email, or my social media. And, you know what? It was awesome!

Enjoyed the world around me without rushing.

Finally, I simply took the time to enjoy the beauty of the world around me. I stopped and smelled the roses. Too often, we get too busy to look around and admire the beauty surrounding us. On this day, I took my time and looked around with eyes and heart wide open.

Better-for-You Holiday Entertaining Tips and Recipes with Almond Breeze

The holidays are coming! Are you ready?

I feel more prepared than ever before thanks to a special event I recently attended sponsored by Blue Diamond Almond Breeze – the Blue Diamond Holiday House. With Thanksgiving fast approaching and Christmas right around the corner, I was delighted to attend an event designed to help attendees plan festive, merry, and better-for-you holiday events themselves. And, they succeeded!

I left the Blue Diamond Holiday House with tons of Thanksgiving and Christmas entertaining tips and plenty of inspiration for insta-worthy memories. As we look towards the upcoming holiday rush, I am here today to share all the holiday entertaining tips I gleaned from Blue Diamond that you can easily incorporate into your holiday meals and parties.

My Visit to the Festive Blue Diamond Holiday House

Walking into the Blue Diamond Holiday House thrust me headfirst into the merriment of this special time of year. The event space was beautifully decorated with multiple Christmas trees, and simple but elegant décor. The tablescapes were to die for. The food spreads were elaborate and tasty. And, the Almond Breeze Almondmilk beverages added to the holiday cheer.

What’s not to love? Blue Diamond did a fabulous job of showing how to create festive meals using their almond-based products. But, unlike some events I attend where it is just pretty to look at and something I would not dream of recreating, this was different. I left feeling inspired and ready to create beautiful and better-for-you holiday memories with my family.

Why This Event Has Me Ready to Ring in the Most Wonderful Time of Year

The Blue Diamond Holiday House nailed it when it comes to entertaining inspiration. The various tablescapes were beautiful, and ones that would be relatively easy to recreate. Ultimately, when it comes to holiday meal planning, a big part of what makes the meal from different from every other meal you eat around the table is the décor. The event showed how to pull it all together. Plus, as an Instagram-lover, I could envision insta-worthy shots in my own home using their tablescape inspiration.

Plus, I learned that I can plan a holiday meal that is both tasty and better-for-you. With family and friends who have dietary restrictions and unique food preferences, it can be challenging to design a menu that will make everyone happy. This event showed me this is not the case! By using Almond Breeze Almondmilk, I can plan a menu that everyone can eat and enjoy.

How I am Using Almond Breeze to Create Better-for-You Holiday Memories

While I certainly walked away from this special event with loads of entertaining tips, I am most delighted to share all the things I learned about how to use Almond Breeze Almondmilk to create better-for-you holiday memories.

We all know the holidays involve a lot of socializing and eating. However, most of that eating is not so good for you. Between the desserts and drinks, it is no surprise that many people pack on the pounds over the holidays. But the holidays are a time when we should get to indulge a little bit! That’s why I was so happy to discover I can use Almond Breeze Almondmilk and enjoy the same tasty holiday treats without the guilt.

First things first, I plan to stock my pantry with Blue Diamond shelf-stable Almond Breeze Almondmilk. This means that not only will I have what I need on hand whenever the mood for a holiday treat crosses my mind, but I will also be prepared if a holiday visitor with dietary restrictions joins us for a meal.

Next, I plan on eating and drinking all the holiday treats I usually feel guilty for indulging in without the guilt! By substituting Almond Breeze Almondmilk, I can indulge without fear. My belly won’t bloat, and my scale won’t start to tip. Even better, I can rest easy knowing I am making better-for-you choices for my family as we gather around the table.

And, gather around the table is just what I plan to do! The holidays are best spent with the ones you love, sharing food, and making memories. I can’t wait to bake holiday cookies with my daughters and eat them together around a table as we ring in the holiday season and the new year.

Ways to Use Almond Breeze to Make Delicious Better-for-You Holiday Treats

While Almond Breeze Almondmilk can be used to make a ton of delicious treats, I am just going to share with you some of my favorite ways to use it. By playing it smart with Almond Breeze Almondmilk, I can enjoy all these treats guilt-free (and so can you!).

Eggnog Made with Almond Breeze Almondmilk

 Eggnog is one of my family’s favorite holiday indulgences, but it is not the lowest calorie drink to guzzle. A better option is to make eggnog using almond milk. This recipe has been adapted from Dave Zinczenko at ABC News.

Ingredients:

• 40 fl oz Almond Breeze Almondmilk

• 6 large eggs

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 2 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon allspice

• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Directions:

• Crack and open 6 eggs. Place in a bowl.

• Whisk together almond milk and spices in a medium-sized saucepan.

• Heat the liquid over medium-high heat for approximately five minutes or until steam appears. Whisk occasionally.

• Slowly (very slowly) pour ½ cup increments of the heated liquid into the egg bowl. Do not pour it too fast or it will cook the eggs rather than combining. Whisk to combine.

NOTE: If you are in a rush, Blue Diamond also makes Almond Breeze Almondmilk Nog. Hooray!

Holiday Sugar Cookies with Almond Breeze Almondmilk

Holiday sugar cookies are the best! Not only are they tasty, but it is also a fun tradition to make them with my kids. Fortunately, by using Almond Breeze Almondmilk, I don’t have to worry about my family eating too many over the holiday season. This recipe comes from Blue Diamond.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup butter flavored vegetable shortening

• 1½ cups sugar

• 1 egg

• 1 tsp. vanilla

• 2¾ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp. baking soda

• ½ tsp. baking powder

• ¼ tsp. cream of tartar

• 3 to 4 Tbsp. Almond Breeze Original Almondmilk; divided

• Decorator sugar or sprinkles

• 4 cups powdered sugar

• ¾ cup vegetable shortening

• 1 tsp. vanilla

• 3 to 4 Tbsp. Almond Breeze Vanilla Almondmilk

• Food coloring

Directions:

• Heat oven to 375°F. Line cookie sheets with wax paper.

• In a large bowl, beat 1 cup shortening, sugar, egg and vanilla with an electric mixer on medium speed until creamy, scraping sides of bowl if necessary. Add flour, baking soda, baking powder and cream of tartar. Mix on low speed until well mixed. Add 2 tablespoons of the almond milk and beat until smooth.

• Form into 1¼” balls, using rounded tablespoonfuls of dough. Place 2 inches apart on cookie sheets. Spray flat bottom of measuring cup or drinking glass with cooking spray; dip in sugar. Press each cookie flat, dipping into sugar every other time.

• If desired, lightly brush tops of cookies with remaining almond milk and sprinkle with colored decorator sugar or sprinkles or leave plain and frost when cooled.

• Bake 8 to 10 minutes or until edges start to brown. Cool on cookie sheets 2 minutes. Remove to cooling racks.

• In a large bowl, beat powdered sugar, ¾ cup shortening, vanilla and 3 tablespoons of the almond milk with electric mixer on low speed until moistened. Beat on medium-high speed until smooth and creamy, adding almond milk for desired spreading consistency. Tint as desired with food coloring.

Plus, it is a better-for-you option alongside that morning coffee

Finally, I have discovered the joy of using Almond Breeze Almondmilk instead of creamer for my coffee. During the busy holiday season, I need all the coffee I can get. Now, I can still enjoy a rich and delicious coffee without all the dairy creamer I usually add. Now I wish that Almond Breeze would come out with a coffee creamer that would be the perfect complement to my morning cup.

Stock your pantry with Blue Diamond products to prepare for a merry and festive holiday season!

Why Grown-Ups Should Make Christmas Wish Lists Too

Have you ever received a bad Christmas gift? Or a duplicate gift? Or a gift that made it seem like the gift-giver did not know you at all? This happens all the time! I have received questionable gifts even from the people who know me best! This is just one of the reasons I believe we should keep making Christmas wish lists – even as adults!

After years adulting, I am at a place in my life where I basically have all I need. And, I often just got to the store or online to buy the things I want. I’m definitely not the only one! Our generation is used to getting the things we want when we want them – without waiting for Santa to place it underneath the Christmas tree.

But, this kind of takes the fun out of receiving gifts at Christmas time. Not only does it make it especially difficult for others to buy you gifts at the holidays, but it also takes away the fun of receiving gifts. Instead, I have started making my personal Christmas wish list alongside my daughters each year. Here’s why.

Your Wants Change Overtime

As the years go by, what you want as a gift will change. When you are just starting out, you will want to fill your home with the basics. When your home has all the basics, you’ll want things that are more personalized. And, when your home is simply filled with things, you’ll want fewer things and more gifts of experiences (such as tickets to Paris). To help the people in your life know what you want this year, fill them in!

No More Guessing

Having a Christmas wish list takes guessing out of the equation. If you are married or in a relationship, you have no doubt hinted at the things you want for Christmas. But, as any woman can tell you, just because you hint doesn’t mean your man is going to get it. You know what he will get? A wish list in writing.

No More Filling Your Home with Stuff You Don’t Love

I try to fill my home and closets with things I love. However, at Christmas, I receive gifts that I am less than crazy about, but then I feel guilty about not using them. This is another reason why I craft a wish list that covers a small variety of things I truly love to share with my family and friends. This helps them find something I will love and use rather than having to guess and purchase something that isn’t my taste.

No More Unnecessary Stress

I love to shop, but Christmas shopping can be stressful. As a shopper, I love to shop and find the perfect presents for the ones I love. But this is a busy time of year and the less time I have to spend browsing the racks to find the perfect present, the better. If someone gives me a wish list, it makes my holiday shopping so much easier. I figure I am doing the same by giving my loved ones a wish list.

The Best Ways to Make a Grown-Up Christmas List

Now that you understand my reasons let’s talk about the appropriate ways to make a grown-up Christmas list.

1. This is not a kid’s wish list. It should be tasteful and brief. Do not list a ton of things. Stick to the items you would really love to receive as a gift.

2. With that being said, try to cover different budgets and leave the more extravagant items to those you know can afford it and are likely to make these types of big purchases.

3. It is perfectly acceptable to ask for gift cards, but you should specify the stores or restaurants you frequent (or those you wish you could).

4. Use a service such as Giftster. Giftster is a free online gift registry that makes it easy to share your wish lists with family and friends. (Plus, this service can be used for any occasion – think birthdays, too!)