This week at Shangrilogs - Nov 23 - $$

Plus, gift ideas, or at least things I like.

I’m on the road, celebrating Thanksgiving in San Francisco with what we call the “Eatings Family” — essentially a group of people who love eating food as much as they love each other. It’s been a delight to see them (and the ocean) again.

This week, we’ll get to the usual “reading, learning, watching, doing, etc.” list in a second, but first we’re starting with a few gift prompts. This isn’t a guide as it is so much an idea generator, because here are the things I personally have loved or asked for this year.

Here are some of the things I asked for (and bought) this year. 

The best mug: this particular size fits in car cup holders, and the reason I like it is because it keeps whatever you’re drinking at the temperature you want to drink it. It’s a delight. And baristas typically gladly accept them. It also had a magnetic closure so you can carry it around without sloshing.

Soft lips: I put this “lip mask” on every night, but I’ve also started using it as basic lip balm. I swear by this. It keeps my lips happy all winter.

The best semi-chunky sweater: I’m 5’4” with small shoulders, and the XS is perfect on me.

Adding some moisture: Sleeping with a humidifier is the only thing my Whoop tells me improves my sleep. I love this thing and it’s very quiet.

Flattering mom jeans: you’ll just have to believe me that these look cool on.

The perfect “kind of cold weather” hat: I love this hat. Paired with a bandana over my ears, it’s the perfect “I’m cold but not that cold” cap.

Under everything I’m wearing: the base layer makes all the difference (and here’s the matching top.)

Surprisingly good house purchase: You have to be picky with the pattern if you’re worried about these rugs looking, well, cheap, but I’ve been surprised how awesome having a washable rug has been.