This is always one of my favorite posts to write each year. It’s so fun to look back and see what defined my year—in people, places, and things. Some are silly, some are serious, but everything on this list was a highlight. This year was a rollercoaster (continuing the theme of the past few years), but I’m just so grateful to end it on a positive note with a lot of favorites.
1. RORY
Of course, Rory joining our family in February tops the list! He was the sweetest arrival after a long and challenging pregnancy. I had so many health scares leading up to his birth, but he arrived in the most euphoric way. Every moment leading up to his arrival was worth it. Rory has been such a bright, silly, sweet, and loving addition to our family. He’s exactly what we were missing—he fits in like the perfect puzzle piece. Honestly, it’s hard to imagine life without him. It feels like both boys have been a part of me my entire life.
2. HAMILTON
Losing Hamilton was one of the hardest things I’ve ever experienced, but I’m so grateful we had one final month together before Rory’s arrival. I poured myself into his well-being, doing everything possible to make him comfortable. It was so difficult to say goodbye, but I’m thankful for those last weeks together. He felt like a baby to me—snuggly, needy, velcro-y. We miss him so much. Every time I pull into the driveway, I still expect to see him jumping four feet in the air to greet us at the back door. Jack still asks about him frequently. It’s been a hard year without him, and we wish he were still here.
3. LED MASK
After going back and forth about getting a red light mask, I finally took the plunge. I bought the Omnilux Contour at a friend’s recommendation, and it’s been a game changer for my skin. While it’s pricey, I think about all the money I’ve spent on beauty products and treatments that didn’t deliver these kinds of results. My skin is so clear and even—I’ve never had it looking this good. I use the mask almost every day for 10 minutes, and it’s so easy to fit into my routine.
4. CHILI’S
This one has been so fun with my friends. It started when a friend was looking for a kid-friendly place with good chips and salsa. I told her to try Chili’s, and it took off from there. Now we have so much fun meeting there—and while some of my friends thought I was nuts, they totally get it now. (Fun side note: I was raving about Chili’s to Mike’s family, and his brother jokingly asked if I had stock in the company. I didn’t… but I bought some on the spot, and it’s up 108%!)
5. CUYANA POUCH
This small zippered pouch has been one of my best purchases this year. With a new baby and a toddler, I’m constantly switching between tote bags. I needed something chic and functional to keep everything organized, and this pouch from Cuyana was exactly what I was looking for. It’s sleek, logo-free, and fits all the essentials. It’s perfect for tossing into a tote or carrying on its own—and it didn’t cost a fortune.
6. SOURDOUGH
I missed the sourdough bandwagon during the pandemic, and I absolutely should have joined in. Better late than never, though! I found a sourdough starter through our town’s Facebook group and got right to work. There’s been no turning back. I’m obsessed. It’s challenging, fun, and incredibly satisfying—I’m loving this hobby and everything it’s brought into my life.
7. RED
Red has always been a color I knew I looked good in, but this year I finally leaned into it. I wore red more often during the holidays, Valentine’s Day, and the Fourth of July, but I used to worry it was too bold. Thanks to encouragement from you all online and getting my “colors done,” I’ve found ways to incorporate red into my wardrobe that feel like me. I don’t feel like I’m standing out in the way I feared; instead, I feel more confident and comfortable. Here’s to even more red going forward!
8. SOTO METHOD
Where do I start with SOTO Method? I couldn’t work out during my pregnancy due to complications, and my body really went through it. After giving birth, I felt weak, lacked muscle, and wasn’t confident in my body. A friend recommended SOTO Method, and I’ve been hooked since my first trial. I noticed changes almost immediately—better posture, muscle definition, and improved stamina. I’m back to my pre-Rory-pregnancy weight and jeans, but more importantly, I feel incredible and confident. I’m excited to kickstart 2025 with another SOTO challenge—and my goal is to take a class in person in NYC!
9. SHOPMY
After nearly two decades in this industry (!!!!), I’ve seen a lot of trends come and go. Most things don’t stick, but ShopMy has been a standout for me this year. While it’s been around for a while, it really took off in 2024. Switching to a new affiliate program felt daunting, but I’m so glad I did. It’s streamlined my workflow and has been a game changer for my bottom line.
10. MARTHA STEWART
Ending with a fun one: the Martha Stewart documentary was so inspiring this year. It did trigger a bit of my perfectionism (if that’s a thing), but I was genuinely inspired in so many ways. I’ve loved seeing creators on social media channel their inner Martha, too. Here’s to embracing a little more Martha energy in the new year!
Can you believe this is my 16th year doing a recap of my favorites every year. I haven’t gone through previous years, but now I kind of want to to see how my life has changed! Here are my favorites from 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023.
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