It's already February and if you are like me, January was long! With an early snow and below freezing temps to trying to get back into reality after a long holiday, I am finally feeling like I'm back into a routine.
Speaking of freezing temps- I love a good snow in Texas but with a house that is 90 years old, I always fear that the pipes will burst. I found THESE to put on your outdoor faucets and decided to try them. They worked and gave me peace of mind. I continued to drip faucets inside, but felt like they are a good little trick if you need something. Just screw them in and run the water. Water doesn't flow unless the temp drops below 32 degrees, and then it will drip for you. Pretty Cool!
I also got my water key out and wanted to share a link to that if you don't have one. It's nice to have on hand and if you do need to turn off your water, this should do the trick.
Now for some fun things!
Valentine's Day is approaching and while some may think it's a silly Hallmark Holiday, I can't think of anyone who doesn't enjoy feeling like they have been thought of. Gift giving is part of my love language for friends, family and someone special.
Here are some ideas for you.
FLOWERS-
For something that is truly special and unique, the floral arrangements from Grange Hall, shown below, are spectacular. They are contemporary, fresh and different.
Speaking of freezing temps- I love a good snow in Texas but with a house that is 90 years old, I always fear that the pipes will burst. I found THESE to put on your outdoor faucets and decided to try them. They worked and gave me peace of mind. I continued to drip faucets inside, but felt like they are a good little trick if you need something. Just screw them in and run the water. Water doesn't flow unless the temp drops below 32 degrees, and then it will drip for you. Pretty Cool!
I also got my water key out and wanted to share a link to that if you don't have one. It's nice to have on hand and if you do need to turn off your water, this should do the trick.
Now for some fun things!
Valentine's Day is approaching and while some may think it's a silly Hallmark Holiday, I can't think of anyone who doesn't enjoy feeling like they have been thought of. Gift giving is part of my love language for friends, family and someone special.
Here are some ideas for you.
FLOWERS-
For something that is truly special and unique, the floral arrangements from Grange Hall, shown below, are spectacular. They are contemporary, fresh and different.
Dr. Delphinium's is hard to beat with classic but gorgeous arrangements.
And don't forget Trader Joe's has a super affordable floral department if you need something quickly or want to buy in bulk to make mini arrangements for friends, teachers or colleagues.
JEWELRY-
Diamonds are a girl's best friend, but emeralds make really good buddies, too!
YLANG 23 is my favorite local spot. The staff is so helpful if you need suggestions.
I love Marla Aaron's jewelry, like this lock, among many others.
Babygold is an online shop with a variety of price points and styles.
Classic huggy style earrings never go out of style.
And don't forget Trader Joe's has a super affordable floral department if you need something quickly or want to buy in bulk to make mini arrangements for friends, teachers or colleagues.
JEWELRY-
Diamonds are a girl's best friend, but emeralds make really good buddies, too!
YLANG 23 is my favorite local spot. The staff is so helpful if you need suggestions.
I love Marla Aaron's jewelry, like this lock, among many others.
Babygold is an online shop with a variety of price points and styles.
Classic huggy style earrings never go out of style.
FOR HIM-
If he likes a good Happy Hour, how about this Craft Cocktail Kit? Just add a great bottle of spirits (the most important part) and it's a super gift.
If he likes a good Happy Hour, how about this Craft Cocktail Kit? Just add a great bottle of spirits (the most important part) and it's a super gift.
This Ferragamo wallet is beautiful and well made, modern but classic.
Concert tickets are a fabulous gift and make for a fun memory and experience.
EXPERIENCES-
Like the idea of giving an experience? Here are a few suggestions for you.
If a concert sounds fun but you're not sure which one (look I rhymed!), here are two smaller commitment performances that also make a great date night.
SoFar Sounds is a secret concert in an intimate space with local musicians. Some really big names have started out here so you never know who you'll see. Leon Bridges, Billie Eilish and Hozier are just a few. You just have to have an open mind and enjoy music of all kinds.
Candlelight Concerts offers a short classical program of well known artists and genres. Nirvana but make it symphony. Aretha Franklin done by an orchestra. This would be fun after dinner and drinks.
If you have a group of couples that want to celebrate together, why not hire a professional chef and bartender and leave the hard work to them while you enjoy the comfort of home and your own playlist.
If you enjoy the idea of learning from a pro, The Cookery is described as a cooking class meets dinner party and is loads of fun.
FOR KIDS-
Young kids love sweets so that is easy!
Add a cute themed shirt or pajamas to wear for the special day and you are done.
Check out Layette.
Like the idea of giving an experience? Here are a few suggestions for you.
If a concert sounds fun but you're not sure which one (look I rhymed!), here are two smaller commitment performances that also make a great date night.
SoFar Sounds is a secret concert in an intimate space with local musicians. Some really big names have started out here so you never know who you'll see. Leon Bridges, Billie Eilish and Hozier are just a few. You just have to have an open mind and enjoy music of all kinds.
Candlelight Concerts offers a short classical program of well known artists and genres. Nirvana but make it symphony. Aretha Franklin done by an orchestra. This would be fun after dinner and drinks.
If you have a group of couples that want to celebrate together, why not hire a professional chef and bartender and leave the hard work to them while you enjoy the comfort of home and your own playlist.
If you enjoy the idea of learning from a pro, The Cookery is described as a cooking class meets dinner party and is loads of fun.
FOR KIDS-
Young kids love sweets so that is easy!
Add a cute themed shirt or pajamas to wear for the special day and you are done.
Check out Layette.
TEENAGERS-
For your teen daughters, jewelry applies too. You may want to do a simple gold or silver style Marla Aaron lock and it comes in a heart. Anything Lululemon is always well received also.
For your teen daughters, jewelry applies too. You may want to do a simple gold or silver style Marla Aaron lock and it comes in a heart. Anything Lululemon is always well received also.
For teen boys I'm told these hoodies, or any hoodies, are a good option. Cookies might be a nice addition.
COLLEGE KIDS-
Money and sleep? Just kidding :)
But maybe a gift card, and a note just letting them know you are thinking of them would be a treat.
Or Tiff's Treats. Always Tiff's Treats!
A fun set of glasses for their bar cart, like these from Amazon, would be fun!
Still here? Thank you for reading my newsletter this month. I hope February is sweet as can be for you. I will be photographing a completed project this month and am working on a few fun things I hope to share with you soon.
If you remember in January I mentioned my 2024 goals and I'm doing well on most of them but need a little more practice being consistent with others (looking at my dusty journal now). How are you doing?
If you or someone you know is looking for design help, reach out and let's talk!
Until next time,
Jessica
Money and sleep? Just kidding :)
But maybe a gift card, and a note just letting them know you are thinking of them would be a treat.
Or Tiff's Treats. Always Tiff's Treats!
A fun set of glasses for their bar cart, like these from Amazon, would be fun!
Still here? Thank you for reading my newsletter this month. I hope February is sweet as can be for you. I will be photographing a completed project this month and am working on a few fun things I hope to share with you soon.
If you remember in January I mentioned my 2024 goals and I'm doing well on most of them but need a little more practice being consistent with others (looking at my dusty journal now). How are you doing?
If you or someone you know is looking for design help, reach out and let's talk!
Until next time,
Jessica