It’s that season again! My favorite things of 2020 list is here, and I believe I’m more thrilled about it than you may be? 🙂 I enjoy reflecting on the past year to identify what I genuinely appreciate…and then justify spending the money on it by composing a post. Ha!
Let’s dive right in, shall we?
- Hmm. Is it wrong to kick things off with alcohol? I’m a big fan of eggnog, but when I had this Evan Williams eggnog at a family Christmas gathering a few years back, it was a game-changer! It’s potent (in my view), so it’s such a delightful sip throughout the night!
- This handy little heater has become my new best friend! I’ve had an old one in my classroom for years, but it finally gave out. I adore this gadget so much that I brought it home to use during my virtual teaching. It oscillates, features two heat settings, and even has a cool fan for when those hot flashes strike! Oy vey.
- I know. It resembles a computer mouse. But this little device! It is a SILENT computer mouse! I keep my laptop in my living room, and I enjoy being on my computer while watching TV. Needless to say, the clicking was becoming bothersome. I was concerned this wouldn’t function correctly, but it’s exceptional!
- I’m such a fan of the Raskog utility cart from Ikea that I possess three of them. The adaptability is limitless, and this green one simply had to be mine. Just because of the color.
- This custom puzzle is such a favorite that I’m about to purchase my third in just one year! It was the ideal way to navigate through quarantine, and it has proven to be a sentimental activity at family gatherings!
- Alright, hear me out. I’ve long been an admirer of Victoria Emerson bracelets. But when she released Apple watch bands????? Every. single. time someone spots them on me, I receive a compliment. The one I have is depicted above. And I might have just bought another one.
- I began adding this powdered collagen to my coffee about a year ago, and it transformed my hair remarkably. I was losing hair like CRAZY, and it was genuinely concerning-me like panic concerning. I put one (flavorless) scoop in my morning coffee, and that drastic shedding has ceased! Now I swear by the stuff.
- My pale skin always craves self-tanner in the winter. My daughter uses this Isle of Paradise, and I “borrowed” it. It’s fantastic! I recommend spraying it and massaging it in with a daily moisturizer for optimal coverage, but it looks so natural!
- We recently had a shed constructed for our yard, inspiring me to finally establish a cut flower garden (ten years after I initially wanted one, but who’s counting?) Floret Farm’s Cut Flower Garden book has been a priceless resource for me! I have pages highlighted, lines marked, notes jotted down…and let’s face it-the photos are stunning!
- For all my tall ladies out there, I saved the best for last. Long leggings! I’m 5’9″, and I estimate my legs make up about 5’7″ of that. I’ve never been able to wear leggings without tall boots because I couldn’t locate them long enough. These leggings are amazing! I acquired the 34″ inseam, but they go up to 36 inches! They’re also high-waisted and fit wonderfully. You’re welcome.
WHEW! I’m quite sure all that typing fulfilled my blogging quota for the year. I’m worn out. Ha! I hope you found something from my list! If you’re curious about what my friends recommend, here are some links for you! They are definitely making me fill my shopping carts, that much is clear!
Sarah at Thrifty Decor Chick
Chris at Just a Girl
Rhoda at Southern Hospitality
Myquillyn at The Nesting Place
Brooke at All Things Thrifty
Stacy at Stacy Risenmay
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**Top Selections and Highlights of 2020**
The year 2020 was remarkable in numerous ways, characterized by global challenges and significant cultural shifts. In spite of the struggles, there were many highlights across various sectors that drew the world’s attention. Here’s a glimpse into some of the top selections and highlights from 2020.
**1. Global Pandemic Response:**
The COVID-19 pandemic dominated news throughout 2020, impacting every facet of life globally. The swift development and distribution of vaccines were notable achievements. Companies like Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, and AstraZeneca spearheaded the effort, with vaccines being approved and distributed at unprecedented speed, illustrating the power of scientific cooperation.
**2. Technological Advancements:**
The pandemic hastened digital transformation across various industries. Remote work became commonplace, resulting in a surge in the adoption of collaboration tools like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Slack. Furthermore, advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning continued to progress, influencing fields from healthcare to finance.
**3. Entertainment and Media:**
With movie theaters closed, streaming services experienced a substantial increase in subscriptions. Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video offered a variety of original content that kept viewers engaged. Noteworthy releases included Netflix’s “The Queen’s Gambit,” which reignited interest in chess, and Disney’s “The Mandalorian,” which continued to enthrall Star Wars enthusiasts.
**4. Social Movements:**
2020 was a critical year for social justice initiatives. The Black Lives Matter protests gained worldwide traction after the heartbreaking death of George Floyd, leading to widespread conversations on racial equality and police reform. These movements sparked significant societal reflection and demands for change.
**5. Environmental Awareness:**
The year witnessed a renewed emphasis on environmental concerns, with numerous nations committing to more aggressive climate objectives. The temporary decrease in pollution during lockdowns highlighted the effects of human activities on the environment. The European Union’s Green Deal and China’s vow to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060 were important strides in tackling climate change.
**6. Political Landscape:**
In the United States, the presidential election was a significant event, with Joe Biden emerging victorious over incumbent Donald Trump in a highly contested race. The election saw record voter turnout and was remarkable for Kamala Harris becoming the first female Vice President, as well as the first Black and South Asian Vice President.
**7. Sports:**
The sports industry adapted to the pandemic with inventive solutions. The NBA successfully created a “bubble” environment to conclude its season, while other leagues implemented strict health protocols. The Tokyo 2020 Olympics were postponed to 2021, marking a historic decision in response to the pandemic.
**8. Scientific Discoveries:**
Beyond COVID-19, 2020 was a year of substantial scientific accomplishments. NASA’s Mars rover Perseverance was launched, with the goal of searching for evidence of ancient life on the Red Planet. Additionally, the detection of phosphine gas in Venus’s atmosphere ignited discussions regarding the potential for microbial existence.
**Conclusion:**
While 2020 was a challenging year, it also represented a period of resilience and innovation. The events and advancements of the year have left a lasting mark, shaping the future in diverse ways. As the world progresses, the lessons learned and progress made in 2020 will continue to affect global society.
