I can’t believe it’s November already! 2019 has been a long year, but a good one too. I would say it’s one of the biggest years for growth in my career and as a person. I’m not a very patient person, so I think that’s a lesson I’m going to have to learn over and over again (maybe until I’m die!). But I’ve truly honed in on my skills, desires, work style, creative side, goals, etc. How do you guys feel about 2019? It hasn’t been the easiest year, but I like to remind myself that there’s always someone who is suffering more than you. In fact, as someone in a first world country, it can be easy to feel like you should be more ahead (in whatever it is). It’s okay to be where you are. Each season has its own timing. You’ll get where you want to go with enough patience, determination, and a bed of prayer. That’s my two cents, anyways. On a less philosophical note, I thought I’d share a few items on my Christmas list!
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Every year — without fail — Zack’s grandma asks us for our Christmas lists. I just love her! For this reason, I like to keep notes throughout the year of pieces I really love or want, but haven’t purchased (whether it’s because it costs more than I’m willing to spend or simply lack of action). I got very into minimalism, sustainable living, etc. about a year or two ago. While I don’t consider myself a hardcore minimalist or a perfect sustainable living example (far from it), I still strive to be mindful of things I add to my closet or simply why I want more “things.” There are some things I’ve had on my Christmas list for years, such as Veja shoes.
Veja is a French brand partnering with Brazil to create ethical, eco-friendly sneakers for consumers globally. (VEJA in Portuguese means “look.” For the brand, it means “look beyond the sneakers.”) I’ve been obsessed with the brand for a long time, so I’d love to support them someday.
Without further ado, I’d like to share a few pieces on my wish list for 2019!
Rifle Paper Co. City Maps 2020 Calendar
I love this calendar for several reasons. First, while it’s nice to have our calendars with us digitally, I still enjoy a physical calendar for hanging, admiring, and using for a quick glance. Second, it’s a travel calendar! I love traveling, so the maps are super fun to see year-round. Finally — and maybe most importantly — once 2021 hits, I can frame these beauties for a gallery wall! I hate knowing I’ll never have a use for calendars after they’re used, so this is a really great plan in my opinion. Plus, if you don’t plan on using all of the art for yourself, you can frame it and gift it! BOOM. You’re welcome. #lifehack
United States of America Art Print
This is another art piece from the same creator: Rifle Paper Co. I have several pieces by them, including two art pieces, coasters, and cell phone cases (working with Sonix). This art piece is the only item not on my personal list, but an item I hope to buy for someone. As someone who has family across the country, I love the idea of gifting this to someone as a way to remind them “we’re all here!”
This City Travel Mug actually has three cities: Paris, London, and New York City. While I love Paris and New York (and probably London, which I haven’t quite visited yet!), I just want the Paris mug. I have loved Paris for as long as I can remember. In fact, I wrote a 20 minute speech on the history of the Eiffel Tower as a freshman — and that’s just one element of Paris! (Don’t worry, I cut it down to 10 min. and got like 8th place in nationals or something. I know, I’m a nerd.) A bunch of my mugs broke in February when we moved to Dallas, which is what I collect while traveling. I’m not sure devastated is really exaggerating that much … Anyways, a few more mugs never hurt anyone!
Travel Home: Design with a Global Spirit Book
I am so sad I couldn’t attend a local book signing by Caitlin Flemming! She was in Dallas only a month ago (maybe less?!), but I couldn’t attend last minute! Truly, I was so sad. As I mentioned earlier, I love travel, but I also love design. What better way to satisfy a bibliophile with a love for traveling and decorating? Oh, this book. This book is perfect. The photography is absolutely gorgeous in it, so I think this is a good gift for lots of people (especially someone like myself though). It’s on my list!
Who doesn’t love a good sweater?! This oversized hooded sweatshirt by H&M is so good. It has an upscale look (so it looks like it should cost a lot more than it actually is!), but still works for running through an airport, lounging around the home in leggings, or simply running errands. I love a combo that allows me to quickly look put together without sacrificing style. (I am my mama’s girl!) I put this on my Christmas list and I’m hoping it will work out.
I have some more items on my Christmas list, but it’s mainly more books, a course I’m hoping to certify myself, and coffee gift cards from Starbucks haha. (I don’t have a problem. I can totally stop drinking anytime I want …) Also, a new phone would be nice, but it’s not like my phone doesn’t work now. I just feel like a camera upgrade from the iPhone 7 would be nice!
Do you guys like these lists? Should I keep doing them in the future?! What’s on your Christmas list this year?