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Peanut punch is a traditional and popular blended drink made in the Caribbean. Each island has its own variation of this nutritious drink that is served primarily during holiday celebrations. They all carry the key basic ingredients of peanut butter, milk, condensed milk, and cinnamon. For the adults who drink, we spike with a little rum. Whether you're drinking the alcoholic or non-alcoholic version of peanut punch, you can never go wrong with this festive, creamy Caribbean peanut drink. Here is my recipe. Caribbean Peanut Punch Ingredients 2 cups whole milk 4 heaping spoons of peanut butter crunchy or smooth 11 oz or 3/4 can of condensed milk 1/2 tsp cinnamon 1 tsp vanilla extract *Optional: rum Instructions Put all the ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Chill and serve with a sprinkle of cinnamon if you would like. I can taste it already. I hope you enjoy it. Photo of Peanut Punch in Mason Jars/ The Seasoned Skillet

What are your plans this weekend? This weekend, we were planning to head to Brooklyn to visit my mom, but we changed plans after Mom suggested we come another day. I quickly found an activity for the girls and I to attend. It's the Taste of Korea happening in our neighborhood. The girls are super excited since this is one of the cuisines that my family enjoys. Afterward, we are going to head to the mall to visit a few stores so that the girls can get ideas I have to say that I am somewhat heartbroken that it has been unseasonably warm this autumn. To make up for this, I will just keep watching my Lifetime Christmas Movies where I can just be jealous of watching people frolic in the snow. Uggggghhhhh! Maybe the local high school play we will be attending might help me feel like the holidays are near, because this weather is not helping at all. I had the opportunity to hear their choir group perform and they sounded like angels, so I am convinced that they will deliver on this play. We are also late putting up our Christmas tree so tonight we will be setting this up while we make pumpkin soup with dumplings, potatoes, and chicken . This is the food of my childhood and that is all I want to eat today in this cold rainy weather. I am also going to make churros to remind me of NYC. My older daughter is really excited that we're making churros after I jogged her memory on what they are. I reminded her of how much she loved eating them when she was younger. I'm just really looking forward to a cozy night at home with good food and the best people in the world. I plan on getting lots of snuggles Share your weekend plans. Photos: Pumpkin soup Taneisha Morris/The Seasoned Skillet Blog , Churros Adrianna Adarme/A Cozy Kitchen

I believe recipes should get to the point, the recipe , without the fluff. There is no counting of calories here. So as promised, here is the recipe for the delicious kimchi rolls that can be served as an appetizer or dinner rolls I made last week. Ingredients Rolls 1 parcel of premade pizza dough ¾  - 1 cups of kimchi Mozzarella cheese (any form) Goat cheese Garlic Butter 2/3 tbsps of butter 2 garlic cloves finely grated or diced ⅛-¼ tsp oregano Dash of black pepper Instructions Rolls Dice the kimchi into very small pieces and use a cheesecloth, towel or a strainer to squeeze out the liquid. Place your dough on a different chopping board with a thin layer of flour in a round shape and cut it into 6-8 triangles depending on the size that you would like ( for an appetizer 8, as a dinner roll 6 ) Form each piece into a ball while applying flour to your hands to prevent sticking, then flatten the dough with a rolling pin or widen using your hand (expert level). Add a tablespoon of kimchi in the center of the dough and top with a small amount of mozzarella cheese and goat cheese on top of the kimchi leaving about 1 inch of space from the edge of the filling and the edge of the dough. Pull the edges to the center to cover the filling. Ensure there are no gaps then roll gently in your hands to seal. Place on a liberally floured dish. Brush garlic butter on the rolls, place in the fryer or oven, and bake for 12-15 minutes or till golden brown. * Do Ahead:  Preheat at 350°. If using a conventional oven preheat at the beginning of roll making. If using an air fryer preheat at the same temperature from the fourth step. Garlic Butter Heat the butter on low heat. As it slowly starts to fizzle, add the garlic. Mix and allow to become translucent or brown. Add oregano and black pepper. After they’re baked, brush them with some more garlic butter and enjoy. Feel free to send pictures of your own.

I landed in New York City in my final year as a teenager. It wasn’t a planned transition, nor was it part of some grand vision I had for my life. My plan was simple: visit my mother, spend time in the city, and return home to my island in the sun. But plans change, and sometimes life has a way of redirecting us before we even realize what’s happening. New York was not unfamiliar to me. I had visited several times since the age of eleven, tagging along on summer trips, soaking in the towering buildings, and the fast-paced streets. But visiting a place and living in it are two vastly different experiences. I never imagined that I would stay, that I would build a life here, that this city of concrete and ambition would become my home. My mother had already made that choice a year before I arrived. She had spent years as part of the invisible labor in one of the more prominent hotels back home in the Caribbean. Then, in an abrupt decision, she left her job without notice and moved permanently to Brooklyn. She sent me the plane ticket she had promised—with the expectation that I would stay. And for a while, I didn’t think I would. I had just completed my A levels. My results weren’t terrible, but they weren’t what I had hoped for either. The idea of starting fresh in New York wasn’t something I had given much thought to, at least not seriously. Four months into my stay, I booked a ticket to return home. But as my departure date approached, my family members encouraged me to stay. New York, they said, had more opportunities. I listened, and I stayed. That decision set me on an unexpected but deeply formative journey—a lengthy career as a domestic worker. Finding My Place in the City The first few years were a blur of short-term jobs. I worked with various families, often in temporary positions. The work was demanding, but it paid the bills. Then, in 2006, I applied for a position that would become my longest and most stable role. The job was with a family living in the Financial District of Manhattan. I remember getting off at the Brooklyn Bridge stop on the 4 train, walking to the building, and nervously announcing myself at the concierge desk. The family, an expectant couple in their third trimester, lived in a cozy one-bedroom apartment. They were warm and welcoming, and the interview went well. But ultimately, they decided to hire someone else—a candidate recommended by another family in the building. I moved on, taking other jobs, but a few months later, I received a call from the family. Their initial hire hadn’t worked out. They needed someone more engaging for their son. Was I still available? Without hesitation, I accepted. Not only did I need the job, but I was ready for something more permanent. I had worked in daycare centers and afterschool programs before, but I was exhausted by the chaotic environment. I longed for a role where I could give a child my undivided attention. The Work of Care My responsibilities were straightforward but significant. I took their son to mommy-and-me programs, arranged playdates, prepared his meals, and did his laundry. I became his world outside of his parents. He was a delightful baby—blonde-haired, blue-eyed, with the chubbiest cheeks I had ever seen. He was always in the high percentile for height and weight, and as he grew, he became more energetic, more curious, and more demanding of my time and attention. About eighteen months later, another son joined the family. They kept me active, strengthened my core (quite literally), and filled my days with laughter and exhaustion in equal measure. While I focused on their care, their mother was building her career. There were days when I arrived at work and had no idea what part of the world she was in. She was ambitious, driven, and successful, and my role as her children's caregiver gave her the freedom to pursue those ambitions. For almost seven years, I was a constant presence in their home, a steady figure in their sons' lives, and an integral part of their daily routine. I was paid well for my work, which was not always the case for many domestic workers. I was fortunate in that regard. One day, I saw her on my television screen. Her career had placed her in the public eye for a long time, but this time, she was aligned with one of the most influential women. It was surreal—this woman whose children I had cared for, whose home I had spent years in, was on my screen. I was proud of her, but it also made me reflect on the unseen labor behind the success stories of so many women like her. The Invisible Workforce I am one of the many Black women and women of color who have, in one way or another, contributed to the careers of women with means and access. We are the nannies, the housekeepers, the caregivers, the ones who ensure that their homes are in order, that their children are well cared for, and that they have the support they need to climb the ladders of success. Every time I see a Hollywood reporter ask a celebrity mom, "How do you do it all?" I cringe. The question itself ignores the reality of the hidden workforce behind the illusion of effortless success. It is a question rooted in privilege and ignorance, a question that disregards the labor of the women who made it possible for these high-achieving women to "do it all." The erasure of domestic workers is not new. It is woven into the fabric of societies that rely on our labor while refusing to acknowledge its value. It is a profession that has long been undervalued, underpaid, and overlooked. And yet, without us, many industries would not function as smoothly as they do. The very women who are celebrated for their achievements need the unseen labor of women like me, because the fact remains, they can't do it all alone . A Life Reimagined When I think about my journey—from a teenager who planned only a brief visit to New York, to a domestic worker who spent years caring for the children of others—I see resilience. I see the sacrifices my mother made, the choices I had to make, and the unexpected paths that led me to where I am today. Would I have imagined this life for myself? No. But life is rarely what we plan. I built something here. I found purpose in the work I did, even if society often failed to recognize its worth. And while my story is my own, it is also the story of so many women who leave their homes, their countries, their dreams behind to build new lives in foreign cities, taking on roles that are essential but rarely acknowledged. We exist. We work. We matter. And our stories deserve to be told. Aubre in Between is a reader-supported publication. If my work has encouraged you, please consider becoming a paid subscriber  🤎

Show yourself grace and ask for discernment. The last week has been rough for a myriad of reasons, one of which includes the burial of my grandfather. With his passing, I have been in a place of deep contemplation and reflection, because death tends to have that effect on me. Since I could not make it to his funeral, I was able to view live on YouTube—thanks to modern technology. My uncle got up to the pulpit of the Roman Catholic Church where I did my First Communion, and gave a great eulogy about his deceased father. He said that my grandfather was a true master of many crafts and that he was able to provide for his family having never worked for another individual. He emphasized the importance of family to my grandfather and how all his efforts were directed to the well-being of his family. I felt like he was speaking and pouring into my soul, because over the last few months, I have been thinking about the direction of my career.   It seemed like I was searching for an answer and guidance and he provided it for me. In that moment, I also thought of my own father, his son, who always worked for himself. You see, I come from a paternal bloodline of very ambitious and creative individuals. What I have learned from them, is to go after what you want in this life. If you have been contemplating starting a business, have started one that hasn't generated much income, or have an established business that you are starting to question its purpose, I implore you to start asking your "Why?"  Examine whether the answer that once inspired, motivated, and carried you is the same answer. If not, how has it changed and are you prepared to make the necessary changes to get you on the path that you're seeking? I am a strong believer in knowing when to give up. Giving up on something is okay, especially when you are certain it is the right move for you. It is also okay to persevere for a dream, especially one that has lived within you for a long time. As you go into the beginning of your week, I say go with faith and with God (or whomever or whatever you believe in). We all at the end of the day answer to ourselves at some point, and I hope your answer will always be, "I gave it my all." Share moments in your life when you felt giving up was the best call or when you persevered. (Photo by Diane Simumpande)

"Today, I barely survived. It felt like a horror film where I was being dragged into a dark abyss. I wanted to go Viola Davis on the fam. Grab my purse and walk out. I nearly tapped out of this house." These are the words I wrote recently on an Instagram post. I did not think this would be the starting point discussing parenting struggles, but I think this best describes how so many feel at some point in their parenting journey. Motherhood is beautiful, but it can also be messy. I am so glad every time I see videos where women speak authentically about their parenting struggles. I think about the many moms who sometimes feel they want to tap out of their families, no matter how much we love them. There are so many great mothers who wake up every day with the intention of giving our best to our children only to realize that despite our best efforts, some days just suck. At the end of it all, we just have to keep giving our best , because that is really all we can do. Parenting is not for the faint and you will never get it right all the time, so be ready to get it wrong sometimes. To those of us surviving parenthood and need some answers, let's discover the some ways we can keep trying. For when the kiddos just won't listen Even the best children can have their worst day, and I say, hold on for dear life. Whether we're talking about trying to get the kid(s) out the door, telling your child for the fourth time to take her socks off the living room floor or just requesting personal space so you won't be touched out, there are moments when your kids just don’t or won’t listen. It is the nature of motherhood. In spite of my vast experience as a babysitter/nanny, some days I am still dumbfounded by the things my children do. Recently, I just had to ask one of my daughters to please step away from me, because her behavior at that moment was just unacceptable and I found myself repeating things over and over (worst mistake ever). When I felt like I was about to lose it, she had to come back with a snarky response. At that point, I directed her to her father and walked into my room. I asked Google for solutions to my problem. Yes, I was asking Google for directions to that place on the internet where successful moms reside with alternative solutions, because that's where I was at. In addition, I remembered another strategy from being a substitute teacher. It always got the kids' attention. Online Solution: If you hear me, touch your nose. (continue by naming a different body part each time until they show they're listening). My solution:  I say : 1,2,3 eyes on me. They say: 1, 2 eyes on you. So now I have two solutions that I plan to implement. Both methods, I believe, will prevent you the parent from snapping at your kid(s), give you some time to think, and allow you to convey your initial request thoughtfully and concisely. For when your child is being resistant. I have a nine year old and a seven year old, and personality wise, they couldn't be more different from each other, yet maintain some behaviors that make me question whether I am parenting one child. My second child who started off extremely introverted, is now my is strong-willed, critical thinker, who is both witty and funny. She hates being rushed to accomplish anything, so her resistance tends to be easier to solve. I back off showing remorse for my actions and correct my behavior. My nine year old on the other hand is at the developmental stage of preadolescence. I can see the push back coming from a place of desiring more autonomy, which is expected for a child her age. I have very clear house rules, expectations and structure, but I also need to recognize that I my parenting style has to match her developmental stage. I may just not be hitting the mark sometimes. Resistant behavior tends to occur when children want to avoid a task, gain attention and even gain power by trying to irritate you. Beyond these simple explanations for non-compliant behavior, it is crucial to assess the environmental changes that may be contributing to the changes in your child's behavior. Things like relocating, the death of a loved one, starting a new school, and any change in the dynamics of their home life. These factors all have an impact on children and the ways they cope with these changes. For resistant children, there are two things I try to avoid: Power struggles: Avoid going back and forth or over explaining your stance. All it does is incite more anger and resistance. Boy have I made that mistake, but I am learning. Overreacting: Try to stay to calm (and trust me, I know how difficult that can be sometimes), because it really gnaws away at the relationship between you and your child. At times it may be hard not to, but find ways to calm yourself in that moment, because reacting may be more disastrous than you think. What you can do to help you avert many negative situations is: Praise your child for the things they do well: I pay attention my children's actions, so when I see great behavior being displayed, I will point it out to my kids immediately. There are so many times I have told my daughters, "I really like how you handled that situation" by repeating what was said and how effective it was responding in the manner that they did. You can see the joy in their eyes. Collaborate with your child: I can't tell you the number of times I have asked my children advice on how they think I should address their resistance. In those moments, I see all of us us calming down and taking moments to speak our hearts and come up with solutions. They feel empowered rather than being dominated, which is never my goal. For those big emotional moments Being a parent can take a toll. There are the day to day emotional interactions that barely cause a dent, and with the right response, they can be great bonding moments. But there are the days you can barely regulate your own emotions due to a host of issues, and you have to do your best to help a sometimes dysregulated little human find a sense of calm. It is on those days, it can feel like the world is conspiring against your joy, and mothering can take a toll on your mental health. This is why I appreciate women who know in their hearts that they are not meant for the calling of motherhood and stand firmly in their decision. So on the days when everyone is caught up in their feelings, all I try try to do is avoid making the day a complete disaster. I tell my girls when they're yelling out into the universe "My day is ruined," that they're having a tough moment; there is still time to turn it around . We always do, even though it sometimes takes us a little longer to get there. As the adults who have to lead by example (but sometimes fails epically), I say absent of any physical, emotional and psychological abuse to your child, show yourself some grace. I recommend: Removing yourself from the situation: When an environment gets extremely stressful and you feel overwhelmed, start by creating distance if you can. Breathe: Take that time to acknowledge how you feel, do some deep breathing and refocus your energy on something more positive. Decide whether you want to be happy or right: In that moment, I also decide before heading back out making sure that my language does not assign blame, but rather a path to bringing us closer together. Apologize if necessary: If feelings were hurt before your exit, come back ready to apologize. This can be the olive branch to begin conversation, especially with kids who can talk. Be ready to listen: This is the time for open dialogue. Talk to your child while connecting from a place of the heart. Really allow your child to be heard. Seek comfort from a trusted individual: Whether it's your partner, a friend or a therapist, reach out to someone you can talk to if you need further support. Continue to show yourself grace and compassion: We all have rough moments. Don't beat yourself up. You can turn this around. So, keep trying, keep laughing, and embrace the wonderful chaos that is parenting. Because at the end of the day, the art of trying is what truly makes us superheroes in the eyes of our children. Celebrate the messiness, the laughter, and the endless love that comes with being a parent. Because in the grand scheme of things, the art of trying is what truly defines us as parents – imperfectly perfect and beautifully chaotic. Now go forth, fellow parents, and conquer the world!

Today’s my birthday! 🎉 It’s funny how each year feels a little different, with its own lessons, laughs, and maybe a few curveballs thrown in for good measure. Birthdays are usually filled with cake, lovely messages from friends and family near and far. But every year, I have a little tradition of setting aside some time just for myself—a quiet, reflective moment to look back on the last year and take stock of what I've learned. Birthdays used to feel like a countdown to something magical, as though I’d suddenly be a new person or everything in my life would somehow be better just because I was a year older. But lately, they’re more like gentle reminders to pause and reflect on how far I’ve come, and what I’d like to change or hold onto as I move forward. Here are a few things I learned over the past year that I’ll be taking with me: 1. Embrace the Beauty of Slow Growth I used to feel this urge to rush through milestones, convinced that by checking boxes faster, I’d reach some ultimate goal of “having it all together.” But if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that meaningful growth takes time. Progress doesn’t have to look like a steep incline all the time—sometimes it’s a steady, winding road, and that’s okay. This year, I found a new appreciation for the slow, steady steps that lead to lasting change. It’s not about how quickly I grow, but how authentically I do it. 2. Setting Firm Limits Isn’t Selfish—It’s Necessary I think one of the hardest lessons I’ve learned this year is that saying “no” doesn’t mean I’m letting people down. Boundaries allow me to protect my energy and be present for the things that matter most. Saying “yes” to everything left me stretched too thin. Now, I’m learning to prioritize, to listen to my needs, and to remember that the people who truly care about me will understand. It’s liberating to realize that setting boundaries is a form of self-care, not selfishness. 3. The Power of Small Joys Over the last year, I’ve realized how powerful small joys can be. Life is full of big events, but it’s the little moments—a great book, a spontaneous coffee date, a quiet evening—that bring a surprising amount of happiness. I started a habit of writing down three things I’m grateful for each day. Some days, it’s big things like a milestone at work or a wonderful conversation; other days, it’s as simple as a warm cup of tea or a perfectly timed nap. It’s amazing how gratitude shifts the focus to what’s going right, even on tough days. 4. I’m Stronger Than I Thought This past year wasn’t without its challenges. At times, I doubted my abilities and wondered if I could handle what life was throwing my way. But looking back, I see the strength that got me through. I learned that resilience isn’t about being unbreakable; it’s about bending without breaking, about showing up for myself when things get hard, and finding ways to keep going even when the going gets tough. So, here I am, turning the page on another year, feeling a little older and maybe even a bit wiser. Today’s not about grand plans or sweeping resolutions. Instead, it’s about appreciating the person I’ve become, the lessons learned, and the gratitude I feel for each experience that’s helped shape me. Here’s to another year of growth, kindness, and a little more laughter. If I can keep learning, keep smiling, and maybe keep a few of those life lessons close at hand, I think it’s going to be a pretty great year. Happy birthday to me! 🎂 Here’s to the journey ahead, one small step at a time.

New York’s Capital District—home to Albany, Schenectady, Troy, and the surrounding areas—might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of relocating. But if you’re looking for a place that balances city convenience with small-town charm, rich history with modern energy, and affordability with opportunity, this underrated region might just surprise you. I came across a post on Threads from someone wondering if the internet could get them excited about moving to Albany. As a relatively new transplant to the Capital Region myself, I’m still finding my way—but the internet delivered, as it always does, and got them hyped for the move. Seeing that inspired me to share my perspective, because the Capital Region has been exactly what I was looking for—a place that truly fits the lifestyle I’ve always wanted. Here are a few reasons why the Capital District is worth calling home: 1. The Crossroads to the Northeast The Capital District is well-connected by highways, Amtrak, and Albany International Airport, making weekend getaways or business trips a breeze. Want to visit NYC, Boston, or Montreal? They're 2.5 hours, 3 hours, and 3.5 hours respectively. In 40 minutes you’re in Vermont and Connecticut. I once drove through Vermont and Massachusetts in a little under one hour to pick up an amazing piece of furniture I bought on Facebook Marketplace . You also have the Adirondack within a 45-minute drive up north and 45 minutes south you’re in the Catskills. 2. A Lower Cost of Living (Compared to NYC!) New York City wore my paycheck down, so the Capital District was a more affordable alternative. Housing costs are significantly lower, and you get more space for your money—whether you’re looking for a charming historic home, a downtown apartment, or a quiet suburban neighborhood. Plus, everyday expenses like groceries and dining out won’t drain your wallet quite as fast. 3. A Perfect Blend of City and Nature This is the main reason I decided to move to the Capital Region. It is beyond what I could have ever imagined. The stunning autumn foliage, crisp winters for skiing, refreshing springs, and warm summers are perfection in every sense. You can enjoy the energy of downtown Troy, Saratoga, and Schenectady with all their amazing restaurants, and in a short drive be transported to amazing nature preserves and hiking trails. 4. Outdoor Adventures at Your Doorstep If you're looking to venture out beyond the preserves and shorter trails, you have easy access to stunning state parks and scenic waterways. Whether you’re hiking in Thacher State Park, Saratoga Spa State Park, or Moreau Lake State Park, kayaking on the Hudson or Mohawk Rivers, or escaping to the Adirondacks for a weekend, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the outdoors. From waterfalls to mountain trails to peaceful lakes, the region offers year-round adventures for every kind of explorer. You can immerse yourself in what the Capital Region has to offer. Nature Preserve 5. Rich History and Architecture If you love history, the Capital District is packed with it. Albany, one of the oldest cities in the U.S., boasts stunning 18th- and 19th-century architecture, including the breathtaking New York State Capitol building. Troy, once a booming industrial city, is now a haven for artists and entrepreneurs, with beautifully preserved brownstones and an old-world charm that’s hard to find elsewhere. 6. A Hub for History and Museums If you love museums and cultural experiences, the Capital District has plenty to explore. Albany is home to the New York State Museum, the oldest and largest state museum in the country, showcasing everything from local history to natural wonders. Albany, one of the oldest cities in the U.S., boasts stunning 18th- and 19th-century architecture, including the breathtaking New York State Capitol building. The Albany Institute of History & Art houses an incredible collection of Hudson River School paintings. It is also home to the USS Slater which offers a fascinating look at a fully restored WWII destroyer escort. Whether you're into art, history, or science, the Capital Region has a museum for you. New York State Capitol 7. A Thriving Arts and Food Scene The area has a creative and cultural scene that often flies under the radar. Troy and Schenectady have incredible live music venues, independent theaters, and a strong community of artists. Albany hosts concerts, festivals, and a lively nightlife. And the food? From farm-to-table restaurants to legendary pizzerias and craft breweries, there’s no shortage of great eats. Plus, the Troy Farmers Market is one of the best in the state. 8. A Thrifter's Paradise The capitol district is synonymous with thrifting. It truly is a thrifter's paradise in every sense of the word. Since moving here, I have taken such delight in furniture thrifting. With so many options and such high quality vintage furniture, you can never go wrong. From Captain's Treasure in Clifton Park, Salvation Ary, Habitat ReStore, and my happy place, Facebook Marketplace, there will always be a treasure to find. Apartment Therapy If you’re looking for a place that offers opportunity, affordability, and a great quality of life, the Capital District of NY is worth considering. It’s a region where you can build a career, enjoy nature, and make a home. Have you lived in or visited the Capital District? What’s your favorite thing about it? Let’s chat in the comments!

The holiday season is the perfect time to give thoughtfully. If you’re looking to support small businesses, find unique treasures, and shop mindfully, these are some of the best places to find one-of-a-kind Christmas gifts for your loved ones. 1. Etsy Etsy is the go-to online marketplace for handmade, vintage, and custom printed items. From jewelry to personalized artwork, you can find countless options from small businesses worldwide. Some popular Etsy categories for holiday gifts include: • Personalized home decor  • Customized clothing and accessories • Vintage and upcycled gifts 2. Local Artisan Markets and Holiday Fairs Holiday markets and artisan fairs are treasure troves of unique gifts crafted by local artists and makers. Many cities and towns host these during the holiday season, and they’re perfect for finding handmade items like: • Jewelry, pottery, and glassware • Handcrafted leather goods • Local food specialties, jams, and baked goods 3. Local Bookstores For book lovers, local independent bookstores offer not only a curated selection of books but often unique gifts you won’t find elsewhere. Many bookstores stock items like: • Special edition books and signed copies • Unique journals and notebooks • Book-themed gifts, like candles, puzzles, and tote bags 4. Thrift Stores and Antique Shops If you’re looking for something with a little history or vintage charm, thrift stores and antique shops can be wonderful places to find unique, affordable gifts. Items you might find include: • Vintage jewelry or clothing • Antique home decor or collectibles • Old records, cameras, or other nostalgic items 5. Local Craft Breweries and Wineries Craft breweries and wineries offer unique products that make great gifts, especially for those who appreciate locally crafted beverages. Many also sell gift sets with branded glassware, and some even offer special holiday releases. Options could include: • Limited-edition holiday brews or wines • Beer and wine tasting kits • Gift baskets with local snacks and pairings 6. Museum and Gallery Shops Museum and gallery gift shops are often overlooked, but they carry an impressive range of gifts that can be perfect for art lovers. From exclusive art prints to unique decor items, you can find gifts that are both thoughtful and stylish. Look out for: • Exclusive prints and posters • Books on art, culture, and history • Unique home decor inspired by exhibits 7. Farmers’ Markets Farmers’ markets are great places to find handcrafted, artisanal gifts. Many vendors offer unique food items perfect for the foodie in your life. Consider picking up items like: • Handmade soaps and candles • Locally made jams, honey, or hot sauces • Unique woodwork, pottery, or leather goods 8. Online Marketplaces for Independent Brands (e.g., Uncommon Goods, Society6) Online marketplaces like Uncommon Goods  and Society6  showcase products from independent artists and designers. You’ll find a mix of quirky, fun, and unique items, like: • Personalized kitchen gadgets and tools • Creative wall art, prints, and tapestries • Handmade games, puzzles, and activity sets These platforms are great if you’re shopping for something specific, as they allow you to filter by category or theme. 9. Handmade Soap and Skincare Boutiques For a luxurious yet practical gift, local skincare boutiques or artisanal soap makers are excellent spots to explore. Handmade soaps and skincare items make beautiful gifts, especially for those who appreciate natural and eco-friendly products. You might find: • Scented soaps and bath bombs • Natural skincare products • Special holiday sets with seasonal scents 10. Plant Nurseries and Garden Centers If you’re shopping for someone with a green thumb, visit a local plant nursery or garden center. These places often have a unique selection of plants, gardening tools, and accessories, as well as holiday-themed plants like poinsettias or small Christmas trees. Gift ideas include: • Unique indoor plants or succulents • Gardening kits and tools • Planters and pots in various designs 11. Subscription Services A subscription can be a gift that keeps on giving all year. Look for local or niche subscription services that align with the recipient’s interests, such as: • Monthly book or magazine subscriptions • Wine or beer-of-the-month clubs • Local coffee roasters or tea clubs 12. Record Stores For the music lover in your life, independent record stores often carry rare vinyl, limited editions, and even music-inspired gifts like band T-shirts and posters. In addition to vinyl, consider looking for: • Retro-inspired record players • Music memorabilia • Gift cards for the store 13. Specialty Food Stores For unique edible gifts, specialty food stores are a goldmine. Many local stores carry gourmet items perfect for holiday gift-giving, like: • Imported chocolates, cheeses, and cured meats • Rare spices, sauces, and cooking oils • Gift baskets with a mix of local and international goodies 14. Local Art Studios and Maker Spaces Many local art studios and maker spaces sell works by local artists, from ceramics to paintings and handblown glass. This is a fantastic option for one-of-a-kind art and decor items, like: • Hand-thrown pottery • Original paintings or mini sculptures • Decorative glassware or ornaments 15. Ethical and Fair Trade Stores If you’re looking to support ethical practices, fair trade stores offer beautiful gifts crafted by artisans around the world. These items often come with stories that make them even more meaningful, and they’re usually handmade using sustainable materials. You can find items like: • Handmade textiles, scarves, and jewelry • Wood carvings, woven baskets, and home decor • Fair trade coffee, chocolate, and spice s 16. Craft and DIY Kits from Hobby Stores Finally, if you’re shopping for someone creative, consider gifting a DIY or craft kit from a hobby or craft store. These kits make for fun, hands-on gifts and can include: • Knitting, crochet, or embroidery kits • Paint-by-numbers or mini sculpture sets • Build-your-own model kits Finding unique gifts doesn’t have to be challenging. From local markets to online marketplaces, these places are perfect for discovering meaningful, one-of-a-kind presents that reflect thoughtfulness and creativity. Happy holiday shopping!

Originally posted: January 18, 2021 Edited: January 19, 2025 “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” Martin Luther King Jr. (Strength to Love, 1963) Happy Martin Luther King Jr. Day. This day is a powerful reminder of our collective struggle for equality and justice. For many, it is a moment to reflect on Dr. King's profound legacy and recommit ourselves to the principles he championed. It is also a time to celebrate the unwavering determination of Black women, who have always been at the center of the movement for progress. As we honor Dr. King’s memory, we must also recognize that the fight for justice is far from over. Recent events—both triumphant and challenging—underscore the necessity of showing up for Black women. The 2024 election served as a powerful reminder of the significance of the Black vote, especially the impact on Black women. Once again, Black women united with a remarkable 92% strength in their collective efforts to help reshape the nation's future. Unfortunately, we had to come to terms with the harsh reality that, aside from Black men, we were nearly alone in this struggle. This pattern of Black women bearing the burden of democracy is finally being recognized, albeit at a critical moment, as we collectively choose to prioritize rest. Tricia Hersey, founder of the Nap Ministry, argues that rest could be a form of resistance. In a recent interview with NPR, Tricia states " ... right now rest is critical because it's counterintuitive and counter-narrative to see slowing down, napping and rest as a key to our movement for black liberation. But it really is so important because rest disrupts and pushes back and allows space for healing, for invention, for us to be more human. It'll allow us to imagine this new world that we want, this new world that's liberated, that's full of justice, that's a foundation for us to really, truly live our lives. " Michelle Obama is now being villainized for not attending the presidential inauguration happening today. Her decision, whether made by choice or due to a scheduling conflict, represents a significant act of protest—a refusal to normalize a political climate that often feels hostile to the values she embodies. As a former First Lady, Michelle Obama has exemplified grace, resilience, and strength. Her absence from the inauguration sent a powerful message: silence is not an option, and complicity is not acceptable. For many Black women, her choice resonated deeply, reminding us that we have the right to prioritize our well-being and stand firm in our beliefs—especially when the world expects our labor without offering anything in return. Michelle Obama , First Lady of the United States of America 2009-2017 Michelle Obama's choice underscores a broader reality: Black women are frequently expected to support others without hesitation. We serve as the backbone of movements, the caretakers of our communities, and the driving force behind progress. However, we are often not given the same care and consideration that we provide to others. If all Michelle does is lie in bed today, I am proud of her. On this Martin Luther King Jr. Day, let us recognize and celebrate the powerful force that Black women represent. We must also acknowledge the allies who stand with us—not just during moments of triumph but also in times of challenge and controversy. Dr. King’s words remind us that it is easy to remain on the sidelines during comfortable times. True allyship requires stepping up when it matters most. Supporting Black women goes beyond empty words. It entails advocating for policies that tackle systemic inequalities, such as maternal health disparities and the gender pay gap. It means investing in Black-owned businesses, backing Black women-led initiatives, and amplifying our voices in spaces where we are underrepresented. Additionally, it involves challenging the stereotypes and biases that undermine our contributions and deny us the humanity we deserve. Black women are not saviors or superheroes. We are human beings who deserve love, respect, and rest. As we honor Dr. King’s legacy today, let us also honor the countless Black women who have carried the torch of justice through generations. From the Civil Rights Movement to now, but after all this hard work we are now choosing to rest. Others need to pick up the spear and fight the battles. To those who call themselves allies: continue to do the work. Speak up when it matters. Advocate for our rights and recognize our worth—not just when it is convenient but always. But for now and possibly into the foreseeable future, Black women are choosing to rest. It’s time for the world to show up for us. We deserve it. Photo of Michelle Obama , First Lady of the United States of America 2009-2017