Don’t most of us love to receive books? How much fun is it to unwrap a cookbook we wouldn’t think of buying for ourselves? Or flip through the novel we’ve heard so much about? Or snuggle with a grandchild as we share a picture book? It’s true; we can never have too many books!

For Eaters, Drinkers, Bakers, and Cooks

Even Better Brownies by Mike Johnson

On his popular blog, Mike serves up decadent baked goods with explicit instructions. I turn to his recipes repeatedly to gift to friends or store in the freezer for late-night treats. This cookbook, with delicious (I’ve made them!) recipes like Ultimate Fudge Brownies and Peppermint Mocha Brownies, is perfect for the holiday hostess. 

The Defined Dish by Alex Snodgrass

If I gave one cookbook to a new mom or new cook, this would be the one. Focused on healthy, quick dinners, Alex offers meals bursting with flavor and wholesomeness. No worries if the recipient is not a Whole 30 follower – the ingredients are easy to sub.

Since I had lunch in her backyard a few years ago, Alex has exploded on the food scene. And I’m not surprised. PS – her second cookbook comes out on December 28. 

The United States of Cocktails by Brian Bartels

A fun surprise for the son-in-law who hosts dinner parties, the daughter who enjoys a nice cocktail, or any home bartender on your list. The author traveled around the U.S., researching each state’s history, bars, and signature cocktails. Part travelogue, this book features doable concoctions a novice mixologist can whip up to impress guests. Cheers!

Wine Folly by Madeline Puckette and Justin Hammack

An excellent gift for the weekend wine buff or the snooty oenophile on your shopping list. With relatable language and charts, this guide details suggested pairings, types of wine, geographic regions, and every other piece of information the aspiring (or expert) wine lover needs.

A New Take on Cake by Anne Byrn

For those home bakers who still create goodies from their dog-eared, decades-old copy of The Cake Mix Doctor, Anne is back. She continues to work her magic with breads, cakes, tortes, and treats. All prepared with a box of cake mix from the grocery store. 

For Animal and Nature Lovers

Woodrow on the Bench by Jenna Blum

For anyone who’s ever loved a dog. This heartbreaking and beautiful memoir of the author’s last few months with her beloved black lab reminds us of the powerful lessons our pets teach us every single day. 

Fuzz: When Nature Breaks the Law by Mary Roach

For two years, Mary traveled the globe with wildlife and nature experts to study “criminal” behavior. In amusing detail, she highlights burglarizing bears, man-eating cougars, and vandalizing birds. With her quick wit, relatable style, and curious spirit, Mary guides readers through interesting – and often complicated – subjects in an easy-to-digest style.

Late Migrations by Margaret Renkl

In a series of heart-to-heart essays, Margaret examines her Alabama childhood, complicated and loving family, and eventual role as caregiver. Margaret contemplates the beautiful world outside her window and weaves her observations throughout the book.

For the Curious Sort

The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christoper Murray

One of my favorite historical fiction novels of 2021. If you’re not familiar with the Morgan Library, it’s a tiny treasure of a museum tucked along Manhattan’s Madison Avenue. This book tells the story – based on her diary – of Belle da Costa Greene, J.P. Morgan’s librarian. Well-respected and well-read, Belle was a black woman who passed as white to protect her legacy and career. 

Stories That Stick by Kindra Hall

Get to the point, please. We’ve all listened to those speakers who drone on and on. In this book, the author guides readers through simple storytelling steps and strategies to ensure an audience remains engaged. Great for grown children with careers, moms who lead committee meetings, teachers, or writers.

The Library Book by Susan Orlean

In April 1986, the Los Angeles Central Library was set on fire. Who did this? And why? The crime, determined to be arson, remains unsolved. Fought by hundreds of LA firefighters, the blaze destroyed 400,000 books and damaged 700,000 more. In this non-fiction book, Orlean explores the main suspect in the crime and the importance of libraries to individuals and communities.

Atomic Habits by James Clear

The author proclaims tiny steps lead to significant changes. Do two pushups a day, write for 10 minutes, eat one vegetable. A quick and interesting read for anyone looking to improve a career, relationship, or life. And aren’t we all!? 

For Those Who Crave an Escape

Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid

A fiery beach read that takes place… at the beach. In Malibu, California, four famous siblings throw their annual party. A novel about family and inevitable issues, tough decisions, forgiveness, and letting go. Outrageous at times, but that’s part of the fun. 

The Dry by Jane Harper

I’m a huge fan of this Australian author and the compelling way she weaves a story. Federal Agent Aaron Falk returns to his Australian hometown to attend a funeral, investigate deaths, and uncover secrets. I loved the movie, released in the U.S. this year, and I look forward to reading Book 2 of the series. 

The Show Girl by Nicola Harrison

Olive craved variety and excitement and novelty. She longed to sing and dance to adoring crowds each night. At the Ziegfeld Follies, she got her wish. Amid the glamour and mayhem of New York City’s Roaring Twenties, Olive lived the wild life of her dreams.

This historical fiction novel shows readers that, even when we know exactly what we want, we may ultimately desire something completely different.

The Sanatorium by Sarah Pearse

If someone on your list enjoys a gruesome thriller, this may be their type of page-turner. A former Swiss Alps sanatorium is now an edgy, luxury hotel. An avalanche strikes and strands Detective Elin Warner. Creepiness, murder, and mayhem follow.

Musical Chairs by Amy Poeppel

Bridget’s planned a quiet few months in her broken-down vacation home, away from the frenetic pace of her New York life and cello commitments. Her father, Edward Stratton, is a blustery, world-famous conductor.

Decades ago, Bridget met Will at Juilliard. Oliver and Isabelle and Matt, now adults, need someone to guide them through their problems. A fast-moving novel with assorted themes woven into its delightful fabric – discovering love later in life, adult children moving home, friendships without “strings” attached.

The Swans of Fifth Avenue by Melanie Benjamin

Readers travel back to the ’50s and ’60s, to the glamour and gossip and power of New York City’s social scene. The story weaves the adventures, scandals, and so-called friendships of playwright Truman Capote and his wealthy flock of Manhattan high society swans. This privileged clique attends all the right parties and shops at all the right places. But, even when you have anything money can buy, happiness is not a given. 

The Chanel Sisters by Judithe Little

When we hear Chanel, glamour comes to mind. But Coco’s and Antoinette’s poor and parentless childhoods, along with devastating losses, make their success all the more impressive. Their constant search for “something better” led them to create a fashion empire that flourished, even during the war. Lovers of historical fiction, fashionistas or not, will devour Judithe’s latest novel.

For the Young Relatives

Sir Drake the Brave by Joy Jordan-Lake and Susan Eaddy

No bullies allowed. Drake has a prosthetic leg and kids pick on him every day. With heartfelt text and beautiful illustrations, this picture book shows children that courage and kindness win.

Our Table by Peter Reynolds

Does your family sit down to dinner together? In this sweet picture book, Violet longs for when her family once shared food and conversations and memories around the dinner table. And she’s determined to make it happen again. 

Jack at the Zoo by Mac Barnett and Greg Pizzoli

For those special little friends who are beginning to sound out words and read. The eight books in this amusing early reader series revolve around the entertaining adventures and troubles of a rabbit, a woman, and a dog. 

Fast Pitch by Nic Stone

For the 9 to 12-year-old reader on your gift list. A coming-of-age sports mystery swirling around a female softball player who faces a multitude of challenges, on and off the field.

The Sixty-Eight Rooms by Marianne Malone

Inside the Art Institute of Chicago, the magical Thorne Rooms are delightful replicas of different historical periods. The 68 miniature rooms are exquisitely crafted, from intricate pastries and cookware to crystal chandeliers and ornate rugs. Young readers (ages 8-12) will delight in an adventurous romp through the rooms in the first mystery of this four-book series.

In the Wild Light by Jeff Zentner

Cash and Delaney have a chance to leave their drug-riddled Appalachian town and head East to a fancy boarding school. In this moving, emotional story, memorable characters will pull at young adult (ages 12 and up) heartstrings.

American Royals by Katharine McGee

If you have a teen granddaughter, consider reading this bestselling young adult novel together. Your own grandmother/granddaughter book club! A clean, wholesome, coming-of-age story about the royal descendants of George Washington. For those who love following the adventures of the real monarchy as much as I do. 

Wishing you all a happy holiday season!

How often do you give books as gifts? Do you have a favorite book you like to give others? What book would YOU like to receive? 

For city dwellers, having a vegetable garden may seem like a pie in the sky. However, growing veggies indoors can be done and is actually a lot easier than most people think – it’s a phenomenal, low-maintenance alternative to nurturing an actual outdoor garden.

Not only does it allow urbanites to harvest the sweet bounty of their own labors, but it also removes the need to worry about garden critters and cold frost. While it certainly does have its challenges, growing veggies indoors is an extremely pleasant hobby and one that you’re bound to fall in love with. Here’s how to get started:

Choose an Indoor Gardening Area

This may be the most difficult part. Those who aren’t in the process of renovating their apartments may find it quite challenging to choose an area that will be reserved for veggies and veggies only. On the other hand, if you are, say, designing a new kitchen at the moment, it will be easy for you to dedicate one part of it to your vegetables.

If possible, choose a spot by the east or south-facing window in your apartment. There, your veggies will get more sunshine, even during the winter. Keep in mind that nothing is as essential for an indoor garden as direct sunlight – a sunny window in your kitchen is bound to do the trick.

When Should I Grow Veggies Indoors?

One of the biggest advantages of growing vegetables indoors is that it can be done all year round. It’s very simple – there are no cold temperatures or frost to worry about.

However, those planning to grow veggies in wintertime should know that the sunlight coming through the window during the winter months may not be sufficient to cultivate healthy, firm vegetables. For that matter, it may be worth investing in one of those easy-to-install LED plant lights.

If you’re a complete beginner and growing veggies indoors is a whole new world for you, the best course of action would be to do the first planting when the sunshine is on your side – in early spring.

Which Veggies Should I Grow Indoors?

Here are some of the most useful and most prolific vegetables you can grow at home:

• Scallions – incredibly easy to plant and harvest.
• Mushrooms – great if you don’t have a lot of light.
• Spinach – requires only a couple of hours of sunlight every day.
• Peppers – their small and compact size makes growing them indoors very easy.
• Tomatoes – lots of varieties – from patio-sized cultivars to cherry tomatoes.
• Radishes – these require little soil and can be harvested only a few months after planting.
• Carrots – ideal for complete beginners, as they require only a deep container and good soil.
• Greens – from full-leaf varieties to micro-greens, these are easy to cultivate and provide a continuous harvest.
• Herbs – rosemary, thyme, mint, oregano, and other herbs require very little space.

What Equipment Will I Need?

The Essentials

Seeds

This one is a no-brainer – to get started, you will obviously need the seeds. If you decide to plant carrots, go with a smaller variety – it’s a much better choice for indoor growing. This logic can be applied to almost all other vegetables.

Containers

These can be either propagation trays or small pots (a couple of inches in diameter). Don’t forget that you can also make propagation trays on your own – all you need are old berry/tomato/mushroom containers. Try to buy (or make) the ones with lids, as these can greatly help with the process of germination.

Potting Mix

Standard garden soil won’t be of much help here. To successfully grow veggies indoors, you will have to use a nutrient-rich potting mix with better drainage.

Non-Essentials (But Also Very Useful Items)

Large Pots with Holes

Those planning to grow tomatoes or carrots will need larger pots. Once these veggies germinate, their further growth needs to be facilitated with a transfer to larger pots.

Grow Light

As mentioned previously, you will need these only if you’re planning to grow vegetables inside your home during the wintertime.

Sticks, Labels and Wire

Bamboo sticks can come in very handy to folks growing tomatoes. A bit of garden wire, on the other hand, will help you bind the tomato plants to the aforementioned sticks. And finally, you can use small wooden plant labels to know which veggie is planted in which pot/container.

4 Easy Steps of Indoor Vegetable Growing 

#1: Plant the Seeds

To know how far apart the seeds need to be planted and how many of them need to be placed in each container hole, check the instructions on the seed packaging.

Will you be using propagation trays? If so, speed up the germination process by popping the lid once you’ve planted and watered the seeds. Keep the trays damp and close to a warm window.

#2: Wait for the Stems to Appear

Once you notice two little leaves on the stem of each veggie, you will know that they are germinated. Depending on the type of vegetable, the process of germination can take up to 2 weeks.

#3: Re-pot the Plants

Once there are more than just two leaves on every plant, your indoor vegetables will be ready for re-potting, i.e., you’ll be able to give them more space for growing. Don’t forget to make a couple of holes on the new containers – the veggies will now also require drainage.

#4: Care Until Harvest

All veggies need different amounts of sunlight and water, and the easiest way to figure out how much of these things each of them needs is to simply refer to the back of the seed packaging. Once the vegetables are ripe, just pluck them, wash them, and enjoy them in or alongside your favorite meals!

All of this sums up the basics of the basics, so it’s pretty safe to say that you’re off to a great start. Don’t get discouraged if a particular veggie doesn’t work for you. Growing vegetables indoors is almost like an art, and one can only achieve the best results by doing a bit of experimentation with the plants, containers, and lighting. Good luck!

Have you considered growing veggies indoors? Which plants have you tried working with so far? What were the results? Where do you grow your veggies?

Crystal Kung Minkoff’s Blue Star Print Shirt on Instastories

Real Housewives of Beverly Hills Instagram Fashion 2021

Crystal Kung Minkoff looked super cute rooting for her home team at a football game recently in this blue star print shirt. Which you should probably Charge on down below to purchase now so that it can touchdown in the end zone of your closet in half time no time.

Fashionably,

Faryn

Click Here to Shop Her Equipment Shirt

Use code BLONDE10 for 10% off your first full-priced order over $145 at Farfetch

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Click Here to See it on Her in Black

Click Here to Shop Her Sheer Gear Bag + Tassel in Many Colours

Photo & Bag Info: @CrystalKungMinkoff

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Originally posted at: Crystal Kung Minkoff’s Blue Star Print Shirt

Kristin Cavallari’s Tan Sherpa Jacket on Her Instastories

Kristin Cavallari 2021 Instagram Fashion

Kristin Cavallari shared with us some great winter weather must-haves. First, her UJ mango lip balm which is perfect for keeping your lips from drying out in the cold. Second, her suuuper cute tan sherpa jacket which is obviously perfect for keeping warm in the cold. I chuckled a little at the jacket’s name that is similar to a certain ex husband quarterback we all know. But we won’t talk about that. All we will talk about is how much we all need this or a Style Stealer of this jacket.

Sincerely Stylish,

Jess

Click Here to Shop Her Intermix Private Label Jacket

Click Here to Shop Her Uncommon James Lip Balm

Photo Credit: @kristincavallari

Originally posted at: Kristin Cavallari’s Tan Sherpa Jacket

Lisa Barlow’s Leopard Puffer Coat in Vail

Real Housewives of Salt Lake City Season 2 Episode 11 Fashion

On last night’s episode of RHOSLC Lisa Rinna Barlow hit up the Bavarian village-inspired streets of Vail to go shopping in this chic AF leopard puff coat. Which I think it’s safe to say just further solidifies her status as one of our ultimate Housewives spirit animals.

Fashionably,

Faryn

Lisa + Meredith’s Coats Are By Christian Cowan

Click Here to Shop Her Prada Boots in Black or White

Click Here to See Them on Kyle Richards

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Photo #1 & Info: @LisaBarlow14

Originally posted at: Lisa Barlow’s Leopard Puffer Coat