Friday Favorites: December 12

The holiday season is magical with a child: I love looking at the lights through his eyes, anticipating the presents, thinking of nice things to do for others, the decorating, and, of course, the cookies.

This Christmas, I'm so thankful to have this life. I have nothing to complain about (although sometimes I still do). Find an extra smile in your arsenal. Help someone who needs something. Love. Listen. Make a difference in the world.

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In case you missed it, I had my first post at In The Powder Room this week. I don't usually write humor, but I jumped at the chance to work with editor Leslie, who is a gem.

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Jen Meer wrote some excellent points to ponder at the Washington Post: "As a parent, I think a lot about wanting to place my kids in a bubble, about wanting to shield them from hurt and struggle and failure. But I can’t help but think how wrong that is. About how good and useful it can be in this life to wander with no particular purpose at all, about how great it can be to fall and to fail once in a while, because all of that is shaping them for something bigger, something great."


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For all of the grandparents in the audience, this one at Scary Mommy is for you:

"But then you became grandparents…to our children. Now we are you, and you have suddenly become something magical."

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Just for a smile, look at this photo from Elaine Alguire.

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If you struggled with infertility, you will appreciate Kathryn's poignant journey at Mamalode.

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I was a teenager in the 80s, and this post from Tara at You Know It Happens at Your House Too about what Facebook would have been like back then made me laugh this week.

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Because of this article in the NY Times, when I was traveling this week, I started saying good night to Siri. And she says good night back... it's kind of sweet.

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I love this Christmas wish from Jennifer Williams. 

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Speaking of Christmas, are you still looking for Christmas presents? 

Elaine of the Miss Elaine-ous Life has a great recipe for peppermint bark 

My friend Kate has a great collection from Simply Om; it's gorgeous fair trade jewelry.


This gift from Uncommon Goods is on my list. I want it to sit on my desk and inspire me to keep the stories coming. One by one, we can bring change and light.

Love, Kristin