The season is upon us! My annual favorite things for 2020 list is here, and I believe I’m more thrilled about it than you might be! 🙂 I enjoy reflecting on the past year to identify what I truly adore…and then justify splurging on it by drafting a post. Ha!
Shall we dive straight in?
- Is it wrong to kick things off with a drink? I’m a big fan of eggnog, but when I tasted this Evan Williams eggnog at a family Christmas gathering a few years back, it was a revelation! It’s potent (in my opinion), making it a delightful sipper throughout the evening!
- This small portable heater has become my go-to! I’ve relied on an old one for years in my classroom, but it finally gave out. I adore this gadget so much that I brought it home to use during my virtual lessons. It oscillates, features two heat settings, and even has a cool fan for those warm spells! Oy vey.
- I realize it resembles a computer mouse. But this, my friends! It is a QUIET computer mouse! I keep my laptop in the living room, and I enjoy being on my computer while we’re watching TV. The clicking noise was becoming bothersome. I feared it wouldn’t function properly, but it’s fantastic!
- I adore the Raskog utility cart from Ikea so much that I own three of them. Its versatility is limitless, and this green version simply had to be mine due to its color.
- This personalized puzzle is such a hit that I’m about to purchase my third one in a year! It was the ideal way to keep us entertained during quarantine, and it’s proved to be a cherished activity at family gatherings!
- I have long been a fan of Victoria Emerson bracelets. But when she introduced Apple watch bands????? Every. single. time someone spots them on me, I receive a compliment. The one I own is shown above. And I may have just acquired another one.
- I began adding this powdered collagen to my coffee about a year ago, and it transformed my hair significantly. I was losing hair like CRAZY, causing me serious concern—panic, actually. I put one (flavorless) scoop in my morning coffee, and that drastic shedding has ceased! Now I swear by the product.
- My pale skin always craves a self-tanner in winter. My daughter uses this Isle of Paradise, which I “borrowed.” It’s splendid! I suggest spraying it and blending it with a daily moisturizer for optimal coverage, but it looks so natural!
- We recently constructed a shed in our backyard, which motivated me to finally create a cut flower garden (ten years after I initially wanted one, but who’s keeping track?) Floret Farm’s Cut Flower Garden book has been an invaluable resource! I have pages marked, lines highlighted, and notes jotted down…and honestly—the photographs are stunning!
- For all my tall ladies out there, I saved the best for last. Long leggings! I’m 5’9″, and my legs account for around 5’7″ of that. I’ve never been able to wear leggings without tall boots due to their inadequate length. These leggings are remarkable! I bought the 34″ inseam, but they go up to 36 inches! They are also high-waisted and fit beautifully. You’re welcome.
PHEW! I’m pretty certain that all this typing meets my blogging quota for the year. I’m wiped out. Ha! I hope you discovered something from my list! If you’re interested in what my friends are recommending, here are some links for you! They are certainly making me fill up my shopping carts, that’s for sure!
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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**Best Selections of 2020: A Retrospective**
The year 2020 was unique, characterized by extraordinary global happenings and a transformation in how we live, work, and entertain ourselves. In spite of the hurdles, certain products, trends, and innovations emerged, gaining the attention and admiration of people globally. Here are some of the best selections of 2020 across different categories:
**1. Technology:**
– **Apple iPhone 12 Series:** Apple’s iPhone 12 series shone in 2020, boasting 5G connectivity, enhanced cameras, and the launch of the MagSafe charging system. The iPhone 12 Mini also became popular for its compact design and robust performance.
– **Sony PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X:** The eagerly awaited next-generation gaming consoles from Sony and Microsoft quickly became essential items for gamers. With improved graphics, quicker load times, and exclusive game titles, both consoles delivered immersive gaming experiences.
**2. Entertainment:**
– **”The Queen’s Gambit”:** This Netflix miniseries turned into a cultural sensation, rekindling interest in chess. The tale of a young chess prodigy captivated viewers with its engaging plot and breathtaking cinematography.
– **”Parasite”:** Bong Joon-ho’s “Parasite” achieved landmark recognition at the 2020 Oscars, becoming the first non-English language film to secure Best Picture. Its social commentary and exceptional storytelling resonated with audiences around the world.
**3. Health and Wellness:**
– **Peloton:** With fitness centers restricted due to the pandemic, Peloton’s at-home exercise gear and virtual classes gained immense popularity. The company’s stationary bikes and treadmills, paired with live and on-demand classes, provided a complete fitness experience.
– **Mindfulness and Meditation Apps:** Apps like Headspace and Calm experienced increased downloads as individuals sought methods to cope with stress and anxiety during these uncertain times. These applications offered guided meditations, sleep aids, and relaxation techniques.
**4. Food and Beverage:**
– **Dalgona Coffee:** This whipped coffee craze swept social media, with millions attempting to create the frothy drink at home. Its straightforward ingredients and visually appealing look contributed to its viral status.
– **Plant-Based Foods:** The appetite for plant-based alternatives surged in 2020, with brands such as Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods broadening their offerings. Consumers increasingly gravitated towards sustainable and health-aware food options.
**5. Fashion and Lifestyle:**
– **Loungewear:** As more individuals transitioned to remote work, cozy loungewear became a wardrobe essential. Brands like Lululemon and Athleta enjoyed increased sales of chic yet comfortable apparel suitable for work and relaxation.
– **Sustainable Fashion:** The fashion industry witnessed a movement towards sustainability, with shoppers emphasizing eco-friendly materials and ethical manufacturing practices. Brands like Patagonia and Everlane took the lead in promoting responsible consumer habits.
**6. Home and Living:**
– **Smart Home Devices:** Gadgets like Amazon Echo and Google Nest Hub became necessary for managing home settings. These smart assistants provided convenience and connectivity, allowing users to control lighting, security, and entertainment systems effortlessly.
– **Indoor Plants:** As people spent more time indoors, the trend of growing indoor plants blossomed. Species such as succulents and fiddle leaf figs not only elevated home aesthetics but also enhanced air quality and mental health.
**Conclusion:**
2020 represented a phase of adaptation and innovation, with individuals and businesses discovering new paths to prosper amid obstacles. From technological breakthroughs to lifestyle adjustments, the best selections of 2020 embody a year of resilience and creativity. As we progress, these trends and products will continue to shape how we live and engage with our environment.
