A Holiday Reflection and Black Friday Deals
It’s that time of the year again. I’ve got so many great sales to share with you from some of my favorite online shops and, of course, Gorjessfit. Before I jump in and share a bunch of links, I wanted to check in and see how you’re feeling. This time of year is exciting and magical, but it can also be a time of loneliness, grief, and other not-so-happy feelings.
I’m an LA transplant. I’ve been an East Coast girl all of my life. Holidays are really big in my family, and I love spending that time with my parents, sister, and her family. Until 2021, I spent Thanksgiving with my family at my parent's house. When I met my husband, Marcus, I was excited to spend our first holiday together. We visited his hometown of New Orleans and spent time with his family. It was all incredibly special but also difficult because I’m so used to being with my family this time of year.
Marcus has joined me for Christmas at my sister’s house in NJ every year. This year, we’re heading back to the East Coast to do the same, and we’re even arriving a few days earlier so that we can spend some time in NYC. Next year, I’m excited because my parents, my sister, and her family are coming to our house for Christmas. I can’t wait! Last year, when we were at my sister Tara’s house, I said, “Christmas 2024, I want to have a house with four bedrooms that is big enough for everyone to come visit.” And now, it’s happening! I spoke that into existence.
Even though I’m excited about the future, I worry about when Marcus and I choose to expand our family and wonder if the distance will prevent our kids from being close to their cousins. However, what really gives me peace is that I met my husband here, and MJ and his mom are here. We’re definitely in LA to stay for at least another 10+ years. So, I feel like I’m meant to be here because I wouldn't have met Marcus if I weren't. I also have to remember to ultimately do what makes me happy, and I love living in LA.! I love the life we’re creating together here!
Even though I won’t be spending Thanksgiving with my family this year, and we have Christmas to look forward to, there are still so many things that I miss. I miss the comfort of being “home.” I’m so happy and thankful that Marcus, MJ, and I have our home, but your parent’s home can sometimes have a different level of familiarity and comfort. I know familial relationships can be complicated, and if you’re struggling right now, I see you, and I hope you’re creating a safe and joyful space. For me, my parent’s home is full of traditions, things I’m used to, and time spent together.
Something that has really helped me, and I encourage you to do, has been starting my own traditions with Marcus and MJ. The three of us really look forward to decorating the tree together. It’s actually such a fun and joyous event for us. If you missed it, I share the reel HERE. We play Christmas music, dance, and eat chocolate chip cookies and hot chocolate. We also love watching Christmas movies. Everything from “This Christmas” to “Home Alone 1 & 2,” “Elf,” “How The Grinch Stole Christmas,” and “Best Man Holiday.” So many small details and opportunities to bond together that give us the holiday feels and make me feel so grateful for my little family.
I think part of me will always miss my childhood home and memories. Having lived away from home for so long, I feel like I’ve got a good hold on managing these feelings when they come up. Though sometimes I do feel guilty for moving away across the country. The choice to move to LA was mine, and so it almost feels like it’s my fault we can’t continue these traditions and spend time together every holiday. I know that’s not the case, but I’m sharing because we don’t talk about these feelings enough.
If you’re missing your family but also grateful for where are now and the people you are surrounded by, know that you’re not alone. I get it! This is such a great opportunity to try new things. Make new traditions, and even include your family in your new traditions. The feelings are there, and they’re all valid, but I hope you’re still able to feel gratitude and find joy this season.
Okay. I feel like we need some retail therapy after that, lol. Let’s get to it!
As I mentioned, Gorjessfit’s Black Friday Sale starts now. You can grab 25% off the entire store.
I won’t overwhelm you with too many links, but I'm excited to share 13 items on sale and a few general sales! There are also a few other brands having great sitewide sales! Be sure to follow me on Instagram, too, so you can watch my stories in case I find any amazing last-minute deals you might be interested in.
Sales + Links
43% off roborock Q7 Max+ Robot Vacuum
You guys know I’ve been raving about this Mop and vacuum Robot. It’s finally on a deep discount!
Samsung frame TV: save up to $1000-
The infamous Samsung frame tv is on sale. I think this is such a great buy, and I love seeing how people style this in their homes with the different screensavers and frames.
36% off Dyson V8 Cordless Vacuum
I talk about the Dyson all the time, so I don’t have to say much, lol. But always best to catch it on sale due to its steep price!
Ring cameras and doorbells - up to 50% off
We currently have these, and we absolutely love them!
50% off beats headphones
They have a bunch of different headphones. I love the quality of the sound, and they’re perfect for travel or the gym.
Bissell Multi-Purpose Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner
It makes it so easy for me to spot-clean my couch and other upholstery!
50% off Ninja blender
My husband has had this Ninja blender for over 5 years, and we still use it daily! Such a great investment,
Mario & Rabbids Switch Game - 75% off
If it wasn’t because MJ already has a Mario Cart game, this would have been a great Christmas gift! Something to consider if you have gamer kids in your family.
40% off Ninja Foodi
If you don’t have a lot of space for extra appliances, check this one out. There is so much you can do with it.
Apple Watch
We love our watches and use them often!
10th generation iPad
This is another great and versatile investment. I love reading on mine and having a compact way to get work done.
44% off viral Snail Mucin Essence
I have been using it for a while now and I love how glowy and moisturized it makes my skin!
50% off vegetable chopper
I debated on getting one of these for so long. I’ve finally ordered one. I think they’re great but I’ll report back.
Kosas - 25% off the entire site.
Tarte - 30% off everything
FWRD - Up to 60% off select items
Nordstrom - Tons of great beauty does on fashion items and beauty - up to 60% off
Thanks for reading! Do you have new traditions you’ve started after you left home? Share them in the comments below. I’d love to hear!
