As we wrap up 2024 and settle back into our (finally finished!) home after the leak renovation adventure, we thought it would be fun to share a few standout gifts from this year. These were the things that not only brought us joy but also made our everyday lives a little easier, brighter, or just more fun. For instance, our mornings have been completely transformed by one of these gifts! And because we love keeping things lighthearted, there’s a funny stockings story at the end—because what’s the holiday season without a little laughter?
1. Kraus Kitchen Faucet in Brushed Gold
We’re in the process of switching some of the fixtures in our home for gold and brass tones, and this faucet was the perfect addition to our kitchen. It pairs beautifully with the new pendant lights from West Elm that we installed after moving back in. The brushed gold finish is sleek yet warm, and it has completely elevated the look of our kitchen. Honestly, I don’t know why we waited this long to make the switch. If you're considering a fixture upgrade, this might just be the sign you've been waiting for!
2. Breville Espresso Machine
Mornings have never been the same since this beauty joined the household. Skott and I are both coffee lovers, and the Breville Espresso Machine delivers the perfect cup every time. Whether it’s a latte for me or a straight-up shot of espresso for Skott, this has been a game-changer for our caffeine routines.
3. KitchenAid Refrigerator
Okay, technically this wasn’t a Christmas gift, but we’re treating it like one. When the renovation company moved our old Samsung fridge, they accidentally put a dent in it. Long story short, they gave us a credit, and we sold the old fridge on Facebook Marketplace to cover the difference. The new KitchenAid fridge is sleek, spacious, and an absolute dream. So yes, it’s absolutely on our list of “gifts” this year.
4. Kaitlyn’s Vanity Mirror
Kaitlyn has been loving her new vanity mirror, even though we’re still debating whether to build or buy the actual vanity to go with it. It’s one of those mirrors with the Hollywood-style lights, and it’s safe to say she’s living her best glam life. The mirror has been a hit for everything from skincare routines to perfecting her makeup for senior year events. Seeing her light up (pun intended!) every time she uses it makes this gift extra special.
5. Oversized Charcuterie Board
Okay, I have to share one of my favorite gifts this year—an oversized round charcuterie board. Now, if you’ve been around here for long, you know that charcuterie boards are basically my love language when I’m hosting. But this one? It’s next-level. Seriously, it’s so big I could probably serve a small crowd (or just me...because sometimes that’s all I need). The counter is reserved for the big crowds (check out my full-size charcuterie board if you haven’t already!). Big thanks to our nephew and his fiancée for this gem—I’m already dreaming of all the cheese, crackers, and random little snacks I’ll pile on there for our next get-together. It’s a hosting dream come true!
The Stockings Story
Skott and I have a long-standing tradition of filling each other’s stockings. This year, though, we both had a moment of psychic alignment—or maybe we just shop at the same stores—because we ended up with a lot of the same items. A smash burger press? Check. A new stud finder? Check. A meat thermometer? Yup. Socks? Of course. While it’s a little hilarious, it’s also kind of sweet to know we’re so in sync after all these years. (And hey, now we’ll never be without perfectly cooked meat or secure wall shelves.)
The mirror has been a hit for everything from skincare routines to perfecting her makeup for senior year events. Seeing her light up (pun intended!) every time she uses it makes this gift extra special.
Wrapping It Up
As we look back on these gifts, they’re not just things—they’re little reminders of the year we’ve had. From the joys of moving back into our home to the thoughtful moments that make the holidays special, these are the things we’ll remember and use for years to come.
What about you? Did you have any standout gifts this year? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear about them! And if you’re inspired to snag any of these for yourself or as gifts, check out the links above to make it easy.
Here’s to a happy, healthy, and stylish 2025!
Comments