My Top 5 Books of 2023

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As we all know, I’ve been in my reading era this year and forgot how much I enjoy it. It’s brought me so much peace and a new perspective on life. So before the year is over, I have to share my top 5 books that have made a HUGE impact on my life for the better.

1. Before I Let Go - Kennedy Ryan

Before I Let Go took me on a wild ride, it felt so real! I could see this happening in real life and that’s what made it one of my favorite reads of the year. This story takes you on a journey of divorce, reconciliation, and mental illness. 


2. Finding Me - Viola Davis 

Finding Me was insanely good, and I gained a new respect for Viola Davis. I listened to this book first, and then I had to buy it. Hearing a person tell their story can take it to the next level. With Viola being a South Carolina native, I had to purchase the book to show my support. Her story reminded me that anything is possible. Even though things aren’t going the way I want them to, it doesn't mean that my life is over.

If you’re struggling with your upbringing and determined to make it out, this is a story worth reading.

3. Dear Black Girl, Letters From Your Sisters on Stepping Into Your Power - Tamara Winfrey Harris

Dear Black Girl - Letters from Your Sisters…was everything I needed when I was a teenager. So much so that I gifted this book to my daughter, if I don’t do anything right on my parenting journey, I want my kids to know that I’m a safe place. I don’t have all the answers but I’m willing to work with you to come up with a solution. I don’t want to parent out of fear but love.

4. Black Girl, Call Home - Jasmine Mans

Black Girl, Call Home felt like a safe space to jot down my thoughts, feelings, and plans for the future. It shared every “black girl experience” I could think of. It’s real, raw, and uncut. Suppose you need a moment just to be and feel. This is it!!! 


5.100 Days of Believing Bigger - MarShawn Evans Daniels 

100 Days of Believing Bigger is a devotional journal that’s perfect for anyone struggling with their faith. 2023 has been one heck of a year and my faith was down in the dumps. I felt like I couldn’t see or hear God and this devotional among attending church in-person really helped to boost my spirit.

All of these books will forever hold a special place in my heart. They are a reminder of what 2023 is/was to me, but here’s to moving on. Currently, I don’t have a 2024 TBR list but I’ve purchased so many books recently that I hope to get a chance to read them over Christmas break. If not, 2024 - it's on!

Honorable Mentions 

I enjoyed these books as well, but they didn’t make my top 5.

Moth to A Flame - Ashley Antoinette

The Inmate - Freida McFadden

Don’t Cry For Me - Daniel Black

Their Eyes Were Watching God - Zora Neale Hurston 

Recitatif: A Story - Toni Morrison 


Wanna check out the books I’ve read or am reading - follow My Book List.


Gifts for Her | Christmas 2023 Holiday Gift Guide

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Happy holidays, friends! Are you looking for the perfect gift for the special woman in your life? Look no further than this gift guide for women! I’ve compiled a list of the best gifts for women of all ages, interests, and budgets.

Whether she's a fashion-forward fashionista, a homebody who loves to cook, or a fitness enthusiast, I’ve got you covered. So sit back, relax, and let us help you find the perfect gift for the woman who has everything.

Want to shop your gifts all in one place? Check out my Gifts for Her on Amazon! 

Gifts for the Fashion-Forward Woman

If the woman in your life is always on-trend, she'll love these fashion-forward gifts:

Gifts for the Beauty Lovers

If the woman in your life is always on-trend, she'll love these fashion-forward gifts:

Gifts for the Homebody

If the woman in your life loves to spend time at home, she'll appreciate these gifts:

Gifts for the Fitness Enthusiast

If the woman in your life is always on the go, she'll love these fitness-inspired gifts:

Gifts for the Woman Who Has Everything

If you're stumped for what to get the woman who has everything, consider one of these unique gifts:

  • A weekend getaway

  • A piece of fine jewelry

  • A gift certificate for a spa day

  • A personalized gift, such as a piece of jewelry with her name on it

  • A donation to her favorite charity

No matter what you choose, the woman in your life is sure to appreciate the thoughtfulness of your gift. So go ahead and spoil her rotten!


Christmas Gift Guide 2023: Gifts for Kids of All Ages

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This post contains affiliate links, if you purchase items from my links, I will receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.

The holidays are just around the corner, and that means it's time to start thinking about gifts for the kids in your life. Make your list and check it twice because the deals have been rolling in hot. Many stores have opted to start their Black Friday deals early and extend them. Whether you're shopping for a baby, a little girl, a little boy, or a teenager, we've got you covered with our Christmas gift guide for 2023.

For Babies and Toddlers | Ages Infant to 48 months

There are so many neat items for you to get for your baby this holiday season. Infants to early crawlers need fun and bright toys to help them explore and grow their little brains. Here are some of my favorites that I have enjoyed with all of my babies.

Fisher-Price Baby Playmat Deluxe Kick

Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Baby Activity Center

Little Tikes Easy Score Basketball Set

Little Tikes First Slip And Slide : Perfect for indoor and outdoor play. We bought this for my son’s 1st birthday, and we enjoyed it until he was 3! Well worth the money.

VTech Sit-To-Stand Learning Walker

Radio Flyer Convertible Stroller Wagon: This is a two-in-one gift, perfect for parents and kids. This covered wagon is great for taking to the park or a walk around the neighborhood. I loved our wagon when the kids were smaller. It made getting things done with littles so much easier.

Flyer Glider Jr., Lean to Steer Toddler Scooter, Red, for Kids Ages 2-5 Years - The new design of this scooter is adorable. Very similar to the older model with the new Flyer branding.

For Little Girls | Ages 5 - 10

  • Dolls: Dolls are always a popular gift for little girls, and there are so many different types to choose from. From classic dolls like Barbie and American Girl to more modern dolls like LOL Surprise! and the New Little Mermaid Collection, there's sure to be a doll that your little girl will love.

  • Arts and crafts supplies: Arts and crafts supplies are a great way to keep kids entertained for hours on end. There are so many different types of supplies to choose from, so you can find something that your child is interested in. For example, if your child loves to draw, you could get them a set of colored pencils or markers. Or, if your child loves to paint, you could get them a set of watercolors or acrylics.

  • Books: Books are always one of my favorites to gift, and there are so many different types of books to choose from. From picture books to chapter books to graphic novels, there's sure to be a book that your child will love.

  • Outdoor toys: Outdoor toys are a great way to get kids active and playing. There are so many different types of outdoor toys to choose from, such as balls, bikes, and scooters. Some of our favorites from the year are the Droyd Romper (ages 3-5),

  • Games: Games are a great way to keep kids entertained and learning. There are many different types of games to choose from, such as board games, card games, and video games.

Special Deal: Gabb Wireless get $25 OFF your first order!

Use my Code: FREELYNAT to save. Gabb Wireless offers phones and watches for kids to access to wireless service without the worry!


For Little Boys | Ages 5-10

  • Toy cars and trucks: Toy cars and trucks are always a popular gift for little boys. There are so many different types of toy cars and trucks to choose from, so you can find something that your child is interested in. 

For example, if your child loves to play with construction vehicles, then the Tonka truck line would be great, maybe they enjoy race cars Or, if your child loves to play with race cars, you could get them a set of race cars. Some of our personal favorite brands are Hot Wheels, Monster Jam, Driven by Battat, and Tonka.

  • Action figures: Action figures are another popular gift for little boys, however, you’ll find that the girls are really enjoying them as well. There are so many different types of action figures to choose from, so you can find something that your child is interested in. 

Some of the most popular are Marvel and Anime figures. You’ll also find that dinosaurs come in action-figure style sets as well. There are many brands to choose from when looking for action figures 

  • Building sets: Building sets are a great way to keep kids entertained and learning. There are so many different types of building sets to choose from, such as Legos, K'Nex, and Mega Bloks.

  • Sports equipment: Sports equipment is a great gift for kids who love sports. There are so many different types of sports equipment to choose from, such as baseball bats, basketballs, and footballs. We purchased the kids a trampoline last Christmas and it was a huge hit for them.

  • Video games: Video games are a great way to keep kids entertained and learning. Be sure to know which game system the child has before purchasing or grab a gaming gift card and allow them to choose! 

For Teenagers

Teens can be a hard group to shop for because they want a little of everything but have no fear here is a great place to start for inspiration.

Beats Studio Pro Bluetooth Headphones - I love my Beats, they are truly great when I’m working out or just need to zone out.

Apple AirPods - Apple users, you need your AirPods! I love them.

Apple Watch Series 9 - I love my apple watch and I wear it 90% of the time, You can find a variety of bands

Apple iPad (10 generation)

Fitbit Charge 6 - For my fitness focused people this is a great option. The Fitbit is one of the best fitness trackers in my opinion. Their app is very user friendly and helps you manage your and maintain your fitness goals.

Xbox Series X or Series S 

PS5

  • Gift cards: Gift cards are always a great option for teenagers, because they can use them to buy whatever they want. You can get them gift cards to their favorite stores, restaurants, or online retailers.My go-to never fails are Apple, Amazon, and food related gift card. Be sure to check with their parents and see if they’re saving up for a special item and you can get a gift card for that specific store.

  • Clothes: Clothes are always a popular gift for teenagers. You can get them clothes that they can wear to school, on the weekends, or out with friends.

  • Shoes: Shoes are another popular gift for teenagers. You can get them shoes that they can wear for sports, school, or just hanging out.

  • Electronics: Electronics are always a popular gift for teenagers. You can get them electronics such as smartphones, tablets, or laptops.

  • Experiences: Experiences are a great way to give teenagers something to remember. You can get them tickets to concerts, sporting events, or amusement parks. Create a themed gift box for them to open so the gift feels extra special especially when it isn’t a tangible item or happening soon.

We hope this gift guide helps you find the perfect gifts for the kids in your life this Christmas!

Be sure to follow me on Amazon, LTK, and Instagram for all of the latest deals and lists!

2023 South Carolina State Fair | Columbia, SC

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Meet me at the Rocket! 

Sc State fair

The South Carolina State Fair is here, but it won’t be for long (October 11-22, 2023)! It’s a great place to enjoy a variety of family-friendly activities, including rides, games, food, and entertainment. The fair is held every year at the fairgrounds in Columbia, South Carolina.

Here are some of the things you can expect to see and do at the South Carolina State Fair:

  • Rides: there are a variety of rides for all ages, and the best part is that they are sectioned off!

  • Games: There are also various games at the fair, where you can try to win prizes.

  • Food: The fair is known for its delicious food - my favorite Fiske fries and fresh squeezed lemonade. Check out the map to plan your eating adventures! 

  • Entertainment: FREE Circus shows, exhibits, live music, and animals! 

I remember going to the state fair as a little girl, and it has always brought me so much joy. Now, I get to make these memories with my kids. If you want to get the best experience, be sure to plan your day. There is so much to do outside of enjoying the rides. Stroll through the Cantey Building to view fine art, photography, or local student’s artwork. Next, you’ll want to head to the Goodman Building to see the sand sculpture - its a must!

What’s New:

Donut Dog

Introducing DeAnna’s Donut Dog, the mouthwatering sensation that includes a homemade long john donut and an all-beef hot dog, topped with bacon and donut glaze for an extraordinary flavor explosion. DeAnna’s Donut Dog proudly holds the prestigious title of “Best New Food” at the 2022 Florida State and Steele County Fairs. Its undeniable popularity makes it an absolute must-try at this year’s S.C. State Fair.

Mexican Street Corn Sundae


Indulge in a mouthwatering delight of this signature creation made with fresh-cut fries layered with warm chile con queso cheese, sweet corn, Mexican spices, crumbled cheese, cilantro lime crema, crushed corn chips, and topped with your choice of cajun shrimp or sirloin steak.

Pumpkin Spice Funnel Cake

Experience the comforting flavors of pumpkin spice and luscious cream cheese icing – adding a creamy, tangy twist to a freshly made funnel cake. This is the ultimate autumn indulgence.



The South Carolina State Fair is a great place to have fun and make memories with family and friends. Be sure to check it out this year!

Here are some tips for making the most of your visit to the South Carolina State Fair:

  • Buy your tickets in advance to save money.

  • Arrive early to avoid the crowds.

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking.

  • Remember the clear bag policy.

  • Have fun!