My Top Ten Favorite Non-Clothing Items From Anthropologie

March 10, 2023 by Hope Recupero in Shopping

If you’ve walked in to an Anthropologie any time in the last ten years you know that they carry so much more than clothing. In fact they carry some really great health, lifestyle, personal care and beauty items both online and in the stores. While Anthropologie is known for their creative and unique clothing styles, they are getting a reputation for the place to go for emerging personal care and beauty brands as well as popular, well-known brands like Mario Badescu and Caudalie. There are a handful of items that I have purchased and love from Anthropologie that do not fall under the clothing category. Check out a few of my favorites!

My Top Ten Favorite Non-Clothing Items From Anthropologie

1. Cocofloss Dental Floss and Toothbrush - Cocofloss was started by a dentist and her sister. I have been using Cocokind’s dental floss for a few years now and it is by far my favorite. Its design cleans really well between teeth, it’s free of parabens, BPA, SLS and PFAS, Leaping Bunny certified (cruelty free) and the flavors are so fun. The toothbrush is amazing! The bristles are soft and designed to effectively clean between teeth (16x more than the standard toothbrush), under the gumline and easily reach tartar prone areas. The handle is made from 98% recycled Oceanworks plastic and is food grade and BPA and BPS free. SHOP: Cocofloss Dental Floss and Toothbrush.

2. Ten Over Ten Nail Polish - I was using Ten Over Ten nail polish before they started carrying it at Anthropologie and I really liked it a lot. They have a nice selection of colors, the polish lasts and the formulations are free of 8 of the most toxic nail polish ingredients, cruelty free and vegan. Now that they carry it both in the store and online, it’s so much easier for me to grab a new bottle or shop a new color! SHOP: Ten Over Ten Nail Polish

3. Tiled Margot Monogram Mug - Anthropologie has carried this mug for a few years now and it makes a great gift. This is actually my go-to gift when I am buying for someone who has everything. It’s also a fun mug to have on hand at home when you have someone over for coffee or tea because it has little glam vibe. It’s reasonably priced at $14 and fun to pair it with many of Anthropologie’s candles or recipes and cookbooks. SHOP: Tiled Margot Monogram Mug

4. The Cheese Board Deck - This 50-card deck of various cheese board ideas is so fun and such a great gift. I have given this one a few times along with a unique cheese board and some simple cheese knives. SHOP: The Cheese Board Deck: 50 Cards For Styling Spreads, Savory, and Sweet

5. Kitchen Notebook Set - I am a sucker for a cute notebook. I have to consciously stop myself from buying them and Anthropologie always has the nicest notebook sets. I typically like the ones that contain plain, lined paper because I can use them a variety of ways but this kitchen notebook set designed by author and food stylist, Jerelle Guy is really pretty and perfect for keeping an organized kitchen and meal planning. SHOP: Jerelle Guy Kitchen Notebooks, Set of 3

6. Nette Candles - Anthropologie is known for their candles especially their signature volcano scent. Shocking, but I am actually not a fan of the volcano scent. I also like candles that are made with either coconut, soy or beeswax, lead-free cotton, paper or wood wicks and less toxic fragrances. Luckily, Anthropologie carries so many candles including this great brand with amazing scents and beautiful resuable, handmade vessels that are both dishwasher and food safe. SHOP: Nette Scented Candles

7. Caudalie Hand Cream - I’m obsessed with this hand cream. It is wonderfully moisturizing and the perfect size to fit in your purse or for traveling. Caudalie uses the therapeutic and anti-aging properties of grapes and their vines to create a beautiful line of spa-quality skincare. SHOP: Caudalie Vinotherapist Hand and Nail Repairing Cream

8. RMS Beauty Lip 2 Cheek Quad - RMS Beauty is clean beauty company that was started by 20-year master make-up artist, Rose-Marie Swift. I love this little make-up quad because you can use the colors for both your lips and your cheeks and you can blend them to get just the right color. It’s also perfect for travel because is small and compact. SHOP: RMS Beauty Lip 2 Cheek Quad

9. KITSCH Satin Scrunchies - I love the soft neutral colors of these slender scrunchies and the satin material is easy on the hair. They also make a nice add-on to a gift. SHOP: KITSCH Satin Scrunchies, Set of 6

10. Tangle Teezer Compact Hair Brush - I’m stuffing three recommendations in this one because they are all hair centric. I like this particular Tangle Teezer brush because it’s compact and fits perfectly in a bag (purse, travel, gym, etc). The Tangle Teezer glides through hair without tugging and breaking strands. It’s a must. I also love this Rahua Hydrating Detangler + UV Barrier for protecting strands while styling. It comes in both a full size and travel size and this AQUIS Hair Drying Tool which is this innovative towel that cuts drying time while reducing frizz. I bought this trio for my daughter one Christmas for her thick, frizz-prone hair and she loved it! SHOP: Tangle Teezer Compact Brush, Rahua Detangler, AQUIS Hair Drying Tool

My Cozy Shackets Picks That Are On Sale Right Now

January 26, 2023 by Hope Recupero in Shopping, Clothing

I’ve been wearing shackets all through fall and this winter because they are the perfect jacket and shirt hybrid. I love wearing them over a tee or tank, just like a cardigan, using it as a light jacket or as an extra layer if it’s chilly in the house. They are an absolute must for me during the cold weather season in New England. Coziness is imperative, of course, so I’m sharing two that I already have and love along with a few others that seem really cute and cozy. This is also a great time to pick one up on sale. Please keep in mind that, because these are on sale, not all sizes and color options will be available.

My Cozy Shackets Picks That Are On Sale Right Now

Orvis Sunday Shirt Jacket - I own this one and it so warm and cozy. I’ve used it as a jacket and an extra layer inside when it’s been chilly. I LOVE the dark green and navy blue check. Fits true to size. Orvis Sunday Shirt Jacket, regularly $149, ON SALE for $99
Abercrombie & Fitch Onion Quilted Shirt Jacket - I also own this one in the beige color. It’s lightweight but also super cozy. The beige pretty much goes with anything, but it does come in two other colors. Fit is a tad oversized but it does shrink a bit when washed and dried. A&F Onion Quilted Shirt Jacket, regularly $90, ON SALE for $44.99
Sanctuary Town Shirt Jacket - Super cute plaid in two colors. A blend of polyester and wool for comfort. Reviewers say it nice but oversized (oversized is definitely in right now). Sanctuary Town Shirt Jacket, regularly $129, ON SALE starting at $51.60
Thread & Supply High Pile Fleece Shacket - I picked this one because I love the fun orange color. It also looks super cozy. It does look rather chunky and oversized so check out the reviews for fit details. Thread & Supply High Pile Fleece Shacket, regularly $59, ON SALE for $38.99
Madewell Belrose Cassel Plaid Shirt Jacket - This one is a little more substantial and, thus, more expensive. It has a vintage work shirt styling (love) and some other wonderful details like Italian boucle fabric, dropped shoulders and a nice long length. Madewell Belrose Cassel Plaid Shirt Jacket, regularly $268, ON SALE for $199.99

2022 Conscious Living Holiday Gift Guide

November 09, 2022 by Hope Recupero in Shopping, Holiday

We are quickly approaching the holiday season and gifting is inevitable. I’ve tried to be more conscious about the types of gifts I purchase for others and support local, handmade and responsibly run companies and much as possible. I’ve put together this season’s gift guide based on the principle of gifting better and more consciously BUT making sure that the gifts are still things that people would actually want. Many of these items I have actually purchased for myself and are made by companies with the mission of making better products and supporting ethical and sustainable manufacturing processes.

2022 Conscious Living Holiday Gift Guide

Coyuchi Unisex Organic Cotton Waffle Robe

One of my favorite brands for consciously crafted textiles. Coyuchi’s products are crafted with 100% organic fibers and a traceable supply chain. Everything is made with the welfare of people and the planet in mind. This spa-style robe is made of soft organic cotton that gets better with every washing. Comes in five colors and is GOTS and MadeSafe Certified. ON SALE for $96-$111 (regularly $128-$148) **SHOP HERE**

Coyuchi Topanga Organic Cotton Matelasse Throw

I have this throw and I absolutely love it. Also made by Coyuchi, it’s beautiful, soft and well-made. 100% undyed organic cotton. It comes is four colors and is GOTS Certified. It’s such a nice gift for someone with a new home or baby. ON SALE for $111 (regularly $148) **SHOP HERE**

Coyuchi Organic Waffle Kitchen Towel Set

A set of six organic waffle cotton kitchen towels. I have these and love them. The more you wash them, the better they get. I love this as a gift for someone who loves to be in the kitchen or someone with a new home. Comes in four different color schemes. ON SALE for $43.50 (regularly $58) **SHOP HERE**

Connected Goods Mini Wooden Heart Dish Set

Connected Goods works with global artisans to bring their handmade goods to the modern marketplace while ensuring fair wages and ethical working conditions. These sweet little heart bowls are hand-carved by Kenyan artisan from scraps wild olive wood. They are tiny (about 1.5” by 2”) and perfect for salt or small items or pieces of jewelry. **SHOP HERE**

Connected Goods Cotton & Lace Tablecloth

A beautifully handmade tablecloth in a soft neutral white. Detailed with Portuguese lace, delicate red stitching and a raw edge hem. Such a nice gift for someone with a new home or apartment. Approximately 55” x 94” **SHOP HERE**

Connected Goods African Sandalwood Bottle Vessel

Also from Connected Goods, these earthy handcrafted bottles are made by expert wood carvers from Mozambique. They are beautiful alone or with a sprig or two of dried lavender or eucalyptus. **SHOP HERE**

The Italian “ReWool” Cocoon Coat by Everlane

Everlane is a clothing company that focuses on ethical manufacturing practices and radical transparency. When you shop, you know exactly where each item is made and how much it costs. This gorgeous coat is made with recycled wool from a mill in Italy along with other recycled materials. It comes in three neutral colors. **SHOP HERE**

Everlane Cashmere Crew

A great wardrobe staple in super soft cashmere. You can’t go wrong with this simple silhouette and who doesn’t love giving and getting cashmere! Comes in 6 colors. **SHOP HERE**

The “ReCashmere” Beanie by Everlane

This beanie is made from recycled cashmere and is also from Everlane. I love giving winter accessories for the holidays especially cashmere. This one comes in 8 colors including stripes. **SHOP HERE**

Remarkable Radiance Body Duo by True Botanicals

A luxurious duo from clean beauty company, True Botanicals. Loaded with nourishing and moisturizing ingredients, it’s the perfect gift to pamper someone who needs a little self care. ON SALE for $32 (regularly $40) DISCOUNT AT CHECKOUT **SHOP HERE**

Wildling Body Dry Brushing and Gua Sha Kit

Gua sha and dry brushing are the hot new trend in wellness and self care. This set is a contains both a beautiful gua sha body tool made of sustainable sourced Bian stone known for its healing properties along with a body dry brush, Aura Detox Body Mist and Aura Rose Pepper Toning Oil. Perfect for someone always looking for the best trends in body and skincare. FREE SHIPPING FOR ORDERS OVER $50 **SHOP HERE**

Blume Salted Caramel Drink Mix and Frother

Blume is a company crafting cafe-style beverages with the power of superfoods. I’m loving their holiday collection especially the salted caramel flavor. The mini-size drink mix and brother would make the perfect stocking stuffer. FREE SHIPPING FOR ORDERS OVER $50 SHOP: **DRINK MIX** AND **FROTHER**

Gourmet S’Mores Kit by Ticket Chocolate

Ticket Chocolate is a small gourmet chocolate company out of Northern California. These s’mores kits are so cute and the perfect little stocking stuffer or hostess gift. **SHOP** **HERE**

Poppy & Pout Premium Lip Tint Gift Set

Poppy & Pout is a small company in Idaho that has been making lip balms since 2014. They recently launched a tinted version in six colors. This is gift set is “Oprah approved” and the perfect little girly gift for a friend, mom or daughter. 20% OFF GIFT BUNDLES WITH CODE OPRAH20 **SHOP HERE**

Poppy & Pout Lip Balm 10-Pack Premium Gift Pack

Poppy & Pout’s original lips balms in a set that can be gifted or kept. I love the feel of these lip balms and that they are available in a wide variety of flavors. They are made with only the best and safest ingredients and no animal testing. Honestly, who wouldn’t love getting this gorgeous rainbow of lip balms? 20% OFF GIFT BUNDLES WITH CODE OPRAH20 **SHOP HERE**

Beautycounter Bright Side Duo Gift Set

Beautycounter is a skincare company dedicated to bringing the safest, cleanest and effective products to the market. I have used both of these products for a few years and they are amazing. One is a vitamin C serum for brightening to even skin tone and the other is a resurfacing peel to help cellular turnover that boosts radiance for beautiful glowing skin. The perfect gift for that skincare junkie! **SHOP HERE**

Beautycounter Good Scents Hand Cream Trio Gift Set

Also from Beautycounter, this sweet hand cream trio is the perfect little gift for a teacher or a party hostess. **SHOP HERE**

Pyt Beauty Eyeshadow Palette

Pyt Beauty was started by Amy Carr and Mary Schulman in an effort to create safe and non-toxic, but on-trend cosmetics for their daughters. I love their eyeshadow palettes, they are full of fun colors for ultimate creativity. The perfect stocking stuffer for the young and young at heart. There are 3 palettes color schemes available. **SHOP HERE**

RMS Beauty Magic Moments Collection

RMS Beauty was started by make-up artist, Rose-Marie Swift in 2009. She wanted products that helped people feel more beautiful but also contained safe, non-toxic ingredients. I love this collection because it contains all of my favorite RMS Beauty items in one little set. It contains a cream eye shadow, lip tint, bronzer and luminizer. Perfect gift for that make-up lover. **SHOP HERE**

My Top Ten Whole Foods Favorites

June 28, 2021 by Hope Recupero in Shopping, Food

I’ve been shopping at Whole Foods since the late 90s, early 2000s and it pretty much used to be the only place that you could find a wide variety of good organic produce, meats and dairy as well as specialty health food items. Things have changed quite a bit and conventional grocery stores are now offering a decent variety of organic and health food items. It’s made shopping so much easier and cheaper. However, there are still items that I absolutely love from Whole Foods that you either can’t find anywhere else or they just do them better. Here’s my most recent lineup of products!

My Top Ten Whole Foods Favorites

Yes, Whole Foods does have the nickname “whole paycheck” but there are some very reasonably priced items and an incredible variety of wonderful specialty foods. The quality of their produce and meats is excellent so I feel confident shopping there. They have an easy, no hassle return policy just in case you end up with a spoiled or bad product. Whole Foods also offers an online shopping and pick-up or delivery service through Amazon and that has been a huge time saver for me. This might be the perfect time to check out what Whole Foods has to offer!

365 Organic Creamy Peanut Butter (no sugar added): Whole Foods has several different versions of creamy peanut butter, but this one is my favorite. It’s fully blended (no stir) and contains no added sugar and has a rich peanut taste. I do choose peanut butter without sugar and I do not notice the difference with this kind. $2.49 for a 16 oz. jar.
365 Organic Light Lemonade: A touch of stevia helps cut the amount of added sugar but doesn’t have that weird artificial sugar taste that comes with stevia-sweetened items. We like to mix it with seltzer and lemon wedge for a healthier alternative to soda. $2.99 for 64 oz.
365 Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Whole Foods carries a large variety of olive oils but we really like the large 101.4 ounce BPA-free can because we use A LOT of olive oil and this goes the distance. This is not the highest quality olive oil you can get there but we like the flavor and the value is hard to beat. $19.29 for 101.4 oz.
365 Organic Chopped Kale: I use kale for a variety of things including smoothies, soups and salads. This pre-chopped kale is such a time saver. Just remember anything pre-chopped or prepared tends to spoil faster so it’s good to use this up soon after you purchase. $3.99 for a 12 oz. bag.
365 Organic Thick and Chunky Medium Salsa: It’s taken me years to find a salsa that every single person in the house likes and this is it. I love that is has good, clean whole ingredients and no funny stuff and my family likes the consistency and taste. $3.26 for a 16 oz. jar.
365 Frozen Cooked Quinoa - This frozen quinoa is the perfect time-saving hack. Having pre-cooked quinoa on hand for salads, soups and sides is so handy on nights when I’m putting dinner together in a rush. You can leave it out to defrost or defrost it in the microwave. $3.99 for a 12 oz. bag.
365 Frozen Cooked Brown Rice - Again another time saver for when I need to get dinner on the table in a pinch. These pre-cooked grains are also great if you’re just looking to heat up a single serving. I love this brown rice for soups and as a base for bowls! $2.99 for a 12 oz. bag.
Whole Foods Dutch-Style Pancake Bites - This is a new favorite with my kids. It, by no means, takes the place of a batch of delicious hot homemade pancakes right off the griddle but it’s great for a quick breakfast without any weird ingredients. $3.99 for a 10.8 oz. bag.
365 Organic Chocolate Almond Ice Cream Bars - If you’re going to have a treat, have a treat! Real ice cream inside a real chocolate shell. My kids love these. My only issue is that they come in packages of three and I really wish they came in at least packages of four (six would be better). If you’re not into almond, try the regular chocolate option. $4.39 for a box of three.
365 Pink Himalayan Salt Sprouted Brown Rice Crisps - I love these for dipping in baba ghanoush and hummus but I’ve also used them for tuna salad instead of bread or a wrap. They have a touch of cauliflower which gives them a little more substance and flavor than a plain rice crisp. While they are good with dips, I actually think they are pretty good on their own too. Also check out the other flavors buffalo and Korean BBQ. $2.99 for a 5oz. bag (by weight).

*May Contain Affiliate Links

My 2021 Mother's Day Gift Guide

April 25, 2021 by Hope Recupero in Shopping, Mother's Day

Believe it or not, Mother’s Day is right around the corner (May 9th to be exact) and before you know it, you’re either going to be scrambling to find a gift or figure out what to tell your family to get you. Mother’s Day gift giving does not have to be extravagant but rather something thoughtful that makes you or the mom in your life feel pampered and special. My gift guides always include items that I would either like for myself or to give to someone in my life. It includes thoughtfully selected gifts including items from my favorite handmade shops and small businesses. I always try to pick affordable items along with some high end gifts when you’re willing to splurge a little. Lastly, all personal care products and cosmetics included in my gift guides are clean and non-toxic. So let’s get shopping!!

Floral Clutch by Daisy Faye Designs - I love this super sweet floral clutch/zipper pouch. The larger size makes this perfect for organizing a larger bag, diaper bag or suitcase, but can also transition to a pretty clutch for a night out. I love Daisy Faye pouches and clutches because not only are they pretty but they are lightweight and easy to pack. Designer/owner Kim Chapman is a doll and offers other items like masks, key fobs, apparel, scrunchies and scarves. Check it out!

Satin Dressing Robe by Hey Mavens! - Hey Mavens! is and lingerie line all about body positivity and acceptance and I love that. Designer/owner Annika has worked tirelessly to bring the cutest and most comfortable bras, panties and other accessories to individuals of all shapes and sizes. I love this sassy, silky robe but check out her entire site. It’s so fun!

Motherhood Affirmations Card Set by Abundant Affirmations - Give mom a little boost of confidence with these thoughtfully designed motherhood affirmation cards by Jen Hatzung of Abundant Affirmations. Affirmations are an effective method of transitioning a negative and destructive mindset to a more positive and constructive one. Check out the rest of her fabulous offerings!

Trio of Floral Journals and Pen by Rifle Paper Co. - I love RPC’s fresh, floral prints! So fun and feminine and the perfect mom-gift. I have received these journal sets in the past and I have used them for everything including making lists, journaling and sketching out ideas. Throw a cute pen in there and call it “a done deal”!

Citrus Mimosa Hand Wash and Hand Cream Set by Beautycounter - Make mom’s hands happy with this hand wash and hand cream set in a light citrus scent by clean beauty brand, Beautycounter. I’ve purchased this set many times in the past and I love it and mom will too.

Hair Dryer Brush by Revlon - A hairdryer for Mother’s Day? Hear me out. This has changed my life and cut my morning routine significantly. Not to mention that I no longer have to juggle the hairdryer and brush combination and my hair looks good every time I use it. What mom wouldn’t want that? If you’re not into giving just a hairdryer, try pairing it with another item, more luxurious item.

Clean Eye Shadow Palette by Jane Iredale - This is something I know my own mom would love to get as a gift because she would never buy this for herself. There are eight palette options (wow) and all shades are safe for sensitive eyes.

Lip and Cheek Palette by RMS Beauty - I love a multi-tasking product and even better one that’s all in one neat little palette (win-win). It’s perfect for travel or to store in your purse for work. The universal colors make it easy to gift to any mom. RMS beauty is another brand committed to transparency and safe ingredients.

Generations Necklace by EFYTAL - What a sweet, simple idea to honor a mother or grandmother. I love the simplicity of the design and that it’s made from sterling silver. EFYTAL is U.S. based company and all jewelry is crafted by artisans in New Jersey, California and Texas. Check out their other designs.

The Comfy In Lightweight Microfiber - A lighter version of the famous Comfy for these upcoming warmer months (it does still gets cold!). I love the idea of wearing it by the back yard fire pit, on a long car ride or camping.

How to Breathe Book - Moms need effective ways to chill and de-stress because mommin’ isn’t easy. The breath is incredibly powerful and one of the easiest and cheapest ways to relax and restore the restless mind and body. This beautifully written book is a guide to to channeling the power of our breath.

Indoor Herb Garden Starter Kit - I think this is a great gift for someone who is just starting to explore the world of gardening. You can start inside and move outdoors when the weather is right or keep indoors by a sunny window for a little edible greenery in the house. Everything is included all in one east to use kit.

Lime Printed Jammies by Print Fresh - I’ve had my eye on these pajamas for a while. The prints are so gorgeous! What better way to pamper mom (or yourself) than with a set of beautifully made and printed pjs. Not into limes? Print Fresh has plenty of other beautiful options.

Strong as a Mother Tee by Suburban Riot - I love these fun graphic tees and sweatshirts from Suburban Riot. Their mom-themed collection is a perfect for that fun mom on your list (or maybe yourself). Shop the entire collection.

Petite Designer Floral Arrangement from Olive and Cocoa - There’s nothing wrong with a classic Mother’s Day gift like flowers, but make it something unique! I love the beautiful selection of floral arrangements and gifts from Olive and Cocoa. The petite size is perfect for someone with a small space or to even put on a bedside table. The succulent can also be taken out and re-potted as a house plant. Shop the entire site for other ideas.

*This Post May Contain Affiliate Links

My Top New Kitchen Gadget Picks for 2021

March 03, 2021 by Hope Recupero in Shopping, Home

The kitchen is one of our favorite places to be as a family; cooking, baking entertaining, snacking, family dinners, homework, coffee chats. The kitchen is definitely the hub of our household and I know we’re not alone. The right tools make a big difference and I’ve been thinking recently that we need to refresh some of our own kitchen gadgets. I started doing some research on the latest and greatest tools and keeping a list of what I wanted to purchase for the upcoming year for ourselves and also as gifts for friends and family.

My husband and I will be married 19 years in April (wow) and we still have many of the kitchen tools and gadgets that we received as wedding gifts. Some of them are getting old and need replacing but trends and life circumstances also change (ahem, two teens) so updates are not only fun but necessary. The right kitchen tools can help you stay consistent with your healthy habits by making it easier to prep, cook and store healthier options. In addition, they help you run your kitchen and baking or cooking projects more efficiently. Honestly, for me, the quicker I can get in and out of the kitchen, the better!

What have I had my eye on? Quite a few items, actually, but I am especially excited about a tea pot that is basically indestructible (I’ve gone through quite a few) and some avocado accessories to help make processing and storing avocados easier. There are also a few items that will make great gifts especially for my husband who is the real kitchen master.

My Top New Kitchen Gadget Picks for 2021

Le Creuset 2.25 Quart Saucepan

We own a few Le Creuset pans and dishes and they are incredibly versatile and durable. They are also expensive so we’ve slowly collected them over the years or received as gifts. I’ve had my eye on the 2.25 quart saucepan in this gorgeous deep blue color. It’s just the size I’ve been looking for and I love that it can go from stovetop to the oven.

Dreamfarm Supoon

I love the smaller version of this spoon because it’s the perfect size for getting into condiment jars and scraping out the last bits so you’re not wasting any product. The larger version is great for scraping pans, bowls and it can also be used for measuring and serving. I love a multi-purpose tool!

Staub Tea Kettle

I drink tea instead of coffee so the tea pot is my tool of choice for my morning beverage. I have been through quite a few kettles and finally decided to search for one that would last, well, forever. Even some of the nicer ones eventually rust and break down after daily usage. This Staub tea kettle is made of cast iron so I’m guessing is pretty much indestructible.

Hamilton Beach Single Breakfast Sandwich Maker

Hamilton Beach Breakfast Sandwich Maker

With two teens in the house, we make (no, buy) a lot of breakfast sandwiches. I’ve had my eye on the breakfast sandwich maker because I’d like to occasionally be able to make them from home without creating a zillion dishes. It looks easy to use, clean and store and I’m hoping it’s enough of novelty that my kids will compelled to start making their sandwiches at home more often.

Simple Spreader Butter Spreader Knife

No one likes trying to spread cold butter on a nice warm piece of toast. This simple little tool solves that problem. We actually keep our butter at room temperature*, which makes it so much easier to spread but this is perfect for when we take a new stick out of the fridge.

*You can safely keep butter at room temperature with a few easy tips. 1) Keep in a butter dish or crock that protects from air and light. 2) Only keep salted butter at room temperature as the salt acts as a preservative. 3) Don’t store it in a hot kitchen for too long. If the temp in your kitchen is consistently above 70 degrees, you may want to keep your butter in the fridge. 4) Don’t leave out more butter than you’ll use in two weeks. Two weeks is about the maximum time butter will stay fresh a room temperature.

GuacLock by Casabella

My daughter and I eat a lot of avocados and I like to make enough guacamole or smashed avocado (for avocado toast) to last a couple days but keeping it from browning is a constant challenge. I was really excited to see this storage container specifically for keeping guacamole fresh.

8-in-1 Kitchen Tool by Butefo

While I don’t really need this particular tool for my own kitchen, I thought it would be a great housewarming gift for someone living in a small space or with a kitchen with limited storage. I love that of the pieces stack together neatly so you’re not searching around your drawers for the right tool.

Chefn’ Strawberry Huller

I’ve been procrastinating on buying one of these, but I like that it removes the parts you don’t want without removing the parts that you do and makes processing strawberries easier. This is sure to be a hit with my son and if gets him to eat more fruit, it’s a win-win!

OXO 3-in-1 Avocado Tool

Back to our love of the avocado. Removing the pit can be a little daunting and this tool helps you safely cut open, remove the pit and slice your avocado. Again, I love a convenient, space-saving, multi-purpose tool.

OXO Mini Measuring Cups

These little mini measuring cups are perfect for measuring out and pouring small amounts of liquid without risking spillage. I like that they stack neatly together and will fit easily in any kitchen drawer.

Chefn’ Cob Corn Stripper

We always end up with leftover corn and I like using it salads and other recipes but do not like cutting it off the cob. It makes a mess and I’m concerned that the cob will slip and I’ll end up cutting myself. I was happy to see that there is a tool that does that easily and safely without the mess.

Whiskware Pancake Batter Mixer and Dispenser

I’m finally going to buy one of these pancake mixer/dispenser bottles. It’s a simple design and concept that I’m hoping saves dishes and some time. I like that you can also use it to mix and dispense muffins and cupcakes.

Chefn’ Stem Stripper

We use a lot of fresh herbs and leafy greens and this little tool is super handy at efficiently stripping the stem of the usable parts. No more cilantro stems in my guacamole!

Simple Human Touchless Soap Dispenser

Finally! A soap dispenser for the kitchen that doesn’t quit in six months. This version is touch-free which is super handy when you’re washing hands after handling raw meat. One charge can last up to 3 months and it comes in five finishes to match your kitchen. You can find the less-expensive, pump-version here.

Cave Tools Pulled Pork Shredder

My kids and husband really like pulled pork sandwiches and shredding the meat with two forks has always been a bit awkward and using your fingers while the meat is still hot, umm, hurts. The design of this tool will make shredding easier without burning my fingers or messing up my forks.

Chefn’ Garlic Zoom Garlic Chopper

We use a lot of garlic; sometimes I’m peeling and chopping up to 10-15 garlic cloves for just one meal prep. Anything to help make this process quicker and easier, I’m all for it. I also like that it keeps the garlic oils off of your cutting board.

Ninja Foodi 8-Quart 9-in-1 Deluxe XL Pressure Cooker, Broil, Dehydrate, Slow Cook, Air Fryer, and More, with a Stainless Finish

After losing my Crockpot in a freak accident, I’ve decided to upgrade to the Ninja Foodie. I’m not really sure how one appliance can effectively do so many things but I’m willing to try it out. I’m especially interested in trying out the air fryer and pressure cooker functions and this larger size 8 quart size is perfect for entertaining.

Vitamix Immersion Blender

I’ve had my immersion blender since we were married and it’s time for an upgrade. It was great for starting out but I want a more professional version since I use it so often. I like the stainless steel design and that it has five speeds.

OXO Handheld Mandoline

We actually have a full-sized mandoline but it’s a little bit of a production setting it up, breaking it down and cleaning it. I want the handheld version for smaller projects, everyday projects and I’ll leave the larger mandoline for our special cooking projects (i.e. this unbelievable au gratin potatoes my husband makes for Christmas Day dinner).

Kochblume Spill Stopper

One of my biggest kitchen pet peeves is when something boils over on the stove. It’s a pain to clean and it disrupts the flow in the kitchen. This simple little tool is supposed to stop that from happening and it’s gotten some pretty positive feedback!

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