It’s that season again! My annual favorite things for 2020 article is here, and I might be more thrilled about it than you? 🙂 I enjoy reflecting on the past year to highlight what I genuinely adore…and then justify splurging on it by composing a post. Ha!
Let’s dive right in, shall we?
- Hmm. Is it wrong to kick off with some booze? I’m a massive fan of eggnog, but when I had this Evan Williams eggnog at a family Christmas gathering a couple of years back, it was a total game-changer! In my view, it’s strong, making it such a delightful drink throughout the evening!
- This compact heater has become my top companion! I had been using an old one in my classroom for years, but it finally gave out. I adore this so much that I brought it home for my virtual teaching sessions. It oscillates, features two heat settings, and even includes a cool fan for those unexpected warm spells! Oy vey.
- I know. It looks like a computer mouse. But this one! It’s a SILENT computer mouse! I keep my laptop in the living room, and I prefer using it while we watch television. That clicking sound was getting quite bothersome. I was concerned it wouldn’t function properly, but it’s fantastic!
- I’m such a fan of the Raskog utility cart from Ikea that I own three of them. The possibilities are endless, and this green one was a must-have. Simply for its color.
- This custom puzzle is such a hit that I’m on the verge of purchasing my third one in just one year! It was the ideal activity to help us cope with quarantine, and it has become a nostalgic favorite during family gatherings!
- Alright, listen up. I have been a long-time admirer of Victoria Emerson bracelets. But when she released Apple watch bands????? Every. single. time someone notices them on my wrist, I receive compliments. The one I possess is showcased above. And I may have just nabbed another one.
- I began adding this powdered collagen to my coffee about a year ago, and it remarkably improved my hair. I was losing hair like CRAZY, which was very concerning—panic-inducing, to be honest. I mix one (unflavored) scoop into my morning coffee, and that excessive shedding has ceased! Now I swear by this product.
- My pale skin always craves a self-tanner in the winter months. My daughter uses this Isle of Paradise, and I “borrowed” some from her. It’s amazing! I recommend spritzing it on and blending it with a daily moisturizer for optimal coverage, but it looks so natural!
- We recently had a shed constructed in our backyard, which motivated me to finally start a cut flower garden (ten years after I initially wanted one, but who’s counting?) Floret Farm’s Cut Flower Garden book has been an invaluable resource! I have pages annotated, lines highlighted, notes jotted down…and let’s face it—the pictures are stunning!
- For all my tall ladies out there, I saved the best for last. Long leggings! I’m 5’9″, and I’d estimate that my legs make up about 5’7″ of that height. I’ve never been able to wear leggings without tall boots because I couldn’t find any long enough. These leggings are phenomenal! I purchased the 34″ inseam, but they go up to 36 inches! They are also high-waisted and fit wonderfully. You’re welcome.
PHEW! Pretty sure all this typing has filled my blogging quota for the year. I’m beat. Ha! I hope you found something appealing from my list! If you’re interested in what my friends are recommending, here are some links for you! They are definitely 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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**Top Selections and Suggestions from 2020: A Year in Review**
The year 2020 was unprecedented, shaped by a global pandemic that transformed how we live, work, and find entertainment. In the midst of adversity, individuals turned to technology, entertainment, and creativity for solace and connection. From innovative gadgets to binge-worthy series, here’s a carefully selected list of top picks and recommendations from 2020 across various spheres.
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**1. Technology & Gadgets**
*Apple iPhone 12 Series*
Apple’s iPhone 12 series, launched in October 2020, featured 5G capability, the powerful A14 Bionic chip, and a modern design reminiscent of the iPhone 4. The iPhone 12 Mini also emerged as a compact yet powerful choice.
*Sony PlayStation 5 & Xbox Series X*
Gamers celebrated the arrival of next-gen consoles in November 2020. The PS5 and Xbox Series X provided rapid load times, stunning visuals, and immersive gameplay, making them essentials for gaming aficionados.
*Zoom & Video Conferencing Tools*
As remote work and online classrooms became standard, Zoom rose to prominence as the leading video conferencing platform. Other applications like Microsoft Teams and Google Meet also experienced significant uptake.
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**2. Entertainment**
*TV Shows*
– *The Queen’s Gambit* (Netflix): This limited series captivated viewers with its engaging narrative of a chess prodigy, reigniting global interest in the game.
– *Tiger King* (Netflix): A true-crime documentary that turned into a cultural sensation during the early lockdown phase.
– *The Mandalorian* (Disney+): Season 2 advanced the Star Wars storyline with cinematic storytelling and the beloved character Grogu (aka Baby Yoda).
*Movies*
– *Tenet* (Christopher Nolan): A mind-bending thriller that challenged audiences with its intricate plot and time inversion themes.
– *Soul* (Pixar/Disney+): Released on Christmas Day, this animated film offered a heartfelt examination of purpose and passion.
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**3. Books**
– *The Vanishing Half* by Brit Bennett: A poignant novel exploring identity, race, and family through the experiences of twin sisters.
– *A Promised Land* by Barack Obama: The former president’s memoir provided a comprehensive account of his initial political endeavors and first term.
– *Untamed* by Glennon Doyle: A memoir encouraging readers to embrace their true selves and pursue self-discovery.
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**4. Music**
– *Folklore* by Taylor Swift: Released unexpectedly in July 2020, this introspective album marked a shift from Swift’s typical pop style and received widespread acclaim.
– *Future Nostalgia* by Dua Lipa: A disco-driven album that injected upbeat energy during challenging times.
– *After Hours* by The Weeknd: Featuring the hit “Blinding Lights,” this album fused synth-pop and R&B with cinematic elegance.
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**5. Apps & Digital Trends**
– *TikTok*: The short-form video platform surged in popularity, becoming a space for creativity, humor, and viral trends.
– *Animal Crossing: New Horizons* (Nintendo Switch): This life-simulation game provided a calming escape for millions during the lockdowns.
– *Headspace & Calm*: Mental wellness applications saw a rise in usage as individuals sought to mitigate stress and anxiety.
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**6. Health & Wellness**
– *Home Fitness Equipment*: With gyms closing, items such as Peloton bikes, resistance bands, and adjustable dumbbells became household essentials.
– *Immunity-Boosting Foods*: There was heightened interest in foods rich in vitamins C and D, zinc, and probiotics to bolster immune support.
– *Telehealth Services*: Virtual doctor appointments gained mainstream acceptance, offering safe and convenient healthcare access.
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**7. Fashion & Lifestyle**
– *Loungewear*: Comfort took precedence, with brands like Lululemon, Aerie, and Skims leading the way in stylish yet comfy clothing.
– *Face Masks*: Beyond their health benefits, masks turned into fashion accessories, with customizable and designer options readily available.
– *DIY & Home Projects*: From baking sourdough to cultivating home gardens, people embraced hobbies that offered joy and productivity.
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**Conclusion**
Despite the difficulties of 2020, the year was rich with innovation, creativity, and resilience. These top picks and recommendations highlight how individuals adapted and discovered new means to connect, find entertainment, and care for themselves. Reflecting on this year reminds us of the tenacious human spirit and the ability of culture and technology to unite us—even when physically apart.
