Happy Thanksgiving to this beautiful community 🧡

As I sit here reflecting on this season of gratitude, I find myself overwhelmed with thankfulness for each and every one of you.

You are more than just followers or numbers on a screen. You're the reason I do what I do. Your comments, messages, and support have created something truly special here—a space where we can connect, grow, and inspire each other.

Thank you for showing up, for sharing your stories, for being vulnerable, and for allowing me to be part of your journey. Your trust means everything to me.

This community wouldn't be what it is without YOUR energy, YOUR kindness, and YOUR authentic presence.

So today, I'm grateful for you. Not just for following along, but for being exactly who you are.

Wishing you a Thanksgiving filled with warmth, delicious food, beautiful moments with loved ones, and all the cozy vibes your heart can hold.

With so much gratitude and love,

Tasheena

P.S. I'd love to hear what you're grateful for this year—drop it in the comments below

I am absolutely bursting with holiday cheer today! The air is crisp, the coffee is spiced, and my favorite fuzzy blanket is officially in heavy rotation. You know what that means, right? It's officially time to dive headfirst into the most magical part of the season: 

Christmas Movie Marathon SZN!

Seriously, is there anything better than snuggling up with a mug of hot cocoa (extra marshmallows, please!) and letting the twinkling lights of the tree reflect off your screen as you escape into a world of holiday magic? I think not! ✨

Over the years, I've cultivated quite the list of must-watch Christmas films, from the laugh-out-loud funny to the tear-jerkingly sweet. Grab your coziest socks, because here's my ultimate list of holiday movies that absolutely have to be on your watch list this year!

Holly Jolly Homebody's Essential Christmas Movie Marathon List! 🎬🎄

The Classics You Can't Miss!

Let's start with the O.G.s, the movies that just scream Christmas!

• It's a Wonderful Life (1946): Okay, prepare the tissues, because this one hits all the feels. George Bailey's journey always reminds me to appreciate the little things and the huge impact we have on each other's lives. Plus, that ending? Pure magic!

• Miracle on 34th Street (1947 or 1994): Whether you prefer the classic black and white or the charming '90s remake, the message of believing in Kris Kringle is just so heartwarming. It's truly a story for all ages.

• A Christmas Story (1983): "You'll shoot your eye out!" How many times have we heard that?! This one is pure nostalgia. The leg lamp, the bunny suit, the freezing flagpole – it's quirky, hilarious, and just quintessential Christmas. I love putting this on during our Christmas Eve dinner prep!

• White Christmas (1954): Bing Crosby and Rosemary Clooney singing classic carols? Yes, please! The music, the dancing, the old-school glamour – it’s just perfection. It makes me want to put on a fancy dress and sing along!

Modern Favorites & Feel-Good Fun!

These are the ones that have become instant traditions in my home!

• Elf (2003): "Buddy the Elf, what's your favorite color?!" You guys, I can quote this movie word-for-word! Will Ferrell as Buddy is just pure joy and hilarity. It's the ultimate pick-me-up if you need a good laugh and a reminder of the true spirit of Christmas.

• Home Alone (1990): This movie is a childhood staple! Kevin McCallister defending his home is iconic. It's funny, a little bit mischievous, and utterly rewatchable. (And yes, I still check behind the shower curtain for bandits!)

• The Santa Clause (1994): Tim Allen becoming Santa Claus is just brilliant. It's whimsical, funny, and has such a sweet message about believing. I just love Scott Calvin's transformation!

• National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation (1989): For those days you need a good, hearty laugh and to feel a little better about your own family chaos during the holidays. Clark Griswold's dedication to a perfect Christmas is both relatable and spectacularly disastrous!

• The Polar Express (2004): The animation is stunning, the message is beautiful, and the music is enchanting. It truly makes you believe in the magic of Christmas again, no matter your age. Hot chocolate, anyone?

Unexpected & Cozy Comfort Watches!

Sometimes you need something a little different, but still full of holiday cheer!

• Love Actually (2003): This interconnected rom-com is a must-watch for me every year. So many stories, so many laughs, and so much heart! It perfectly captures the chaos and joy of the holiday season.

• The Holiday (2006): Cameron Diaz and Kate Winslet swapping homes for Christmas? Sign me up! It's charming, romantic, and beautifully shot. A perfect cozy night in movie.

• Die Hard (1988): Okay, hear me out! Is it a Christmas movie? YES. It takes place at Christmas, has a Christmas party, and even some Christmas music! It’s action-packed fun for when you want a break from all the sweetness. Bruce Willis as John McClane is iconic.

• Klaus (2019): If you haven't seen this animated gem on Netflix, STOP what you're doing! It's beautifully animated, incredibly creative, and tells such a unique, touching origin story of Santa. It's a new favorite for sure!

Phew! That's quite the list, isn't it? My mission this holiday season is to watch as many of these as possible, often with a different festive treat for each! What are your absolute must-watch Christmas movies? Did I miss any of your faves? Let me know in the comments below! 👇




Don't forget to grab your snacks, get cozy, and soak in all the wonderful, magical movie moments this season has to offer.

Sending you all the warmest holiday wishes and happy watching!

Tired of the same old holiday traditions? If your family is craving a spectacular, new way to experience the magic of Christmas, you need to book a ticket for the Holiday Wish Express!

Forget standing in long lines for a quick photo—this is an unforgettable, 20,000-square-foot immersive journey that whisks you and your loved ones straight to the North Pole. Located right in the heart of Stamford Town Center, this attraction is set to redefine your holiday season.

All Aboard: The Magical Virtual Ride

The adventure begins the moment you step inside the Holiday Wish Express station. You won't just walk into a decorated room; you’ll board a one-of-a-kind virtual train ride that launches the experience!

Imagine being instantly transported through sparkling, snow-dusted landscapes and glittering holiday scenes. It’s a truly immersive moment that immediately captures the imagination and sets a tone of pure wonder. It’s the perfect way to get everyone—from toddlers to grandparents—excited for the journey ahead.

A Whimsical World of Wonder (20,000 Square Feet!)

Once you arrive at the "North Pole," the virtual doors open to a world bursting with color and festive energy.

This attraction is absolutely massive, covering 20,000 square feet of enchanting displays, festive activities, and joyful surprises designed for all ages. Every corner is a dazzling visual perfect for that holiday family photo!

Keep an eye out for the friendly faces of the North Pole, including the ever-charming Mrs. Claus and Phineas Flywheel, the master toymaker whose magic brings Santa’s creations to life. They are wonderful additions to the experience and make the story truly feel real for the kids (and adults!).

Travel Tip: The creator and producer of the Holiday Wish Express, Ilario Altamura (a Stamford resident!), has ensured this attraction is bigger, brighter, and more magical than ever before. You can tell this event was built with passion and imagination!

Plan Your Visit: Dates, Tickets, and Location

Ready to book your ticket to holiday happiness? Here are the essential details you need to know:

• 📍 Location: Stamford Town Center, Stamford, Connecticut

• 🗓️ Dates: The Holiday Wish Express officially opens its doors on November 22nd and runs through December 28th.

• 🎟️ Tickets: This attraction is highly anticipated and tickets are expected to go fast! Be sure to purchase yours in advance to secure your spot for the adventure.

If you’re anywhere in Fairfield County, New Haven, or traveling through Connecticut this holiday season, this is an absolute must-do stop.

Your New Holiday Tradition Awaits!

The Holiday Wish Express offers so much more than a typical seasonal outing; it offers a grand, imaginative escape. It’s a chance to step away from the everyday and fully immerse your family in the wonder and joy of the holiday season.

Don't wait to grab your golden ticket for this spectacular immersive journey—the North Pole is calling!

✨ CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TICKETS TODAY! 

 

As we race toward Thanksgiving, I know we're all feeling that mix of excitement and mounting holiday stress. Planning the perfect holiday meal is a huge task, and the one thing I try to avoid every year is spending the entire day locked in the kitchen, exhausted before the meal even starts.

This year, I'm cutting out the chaos entirely, and I'm sharing my absolute best time-saving secret with you: Let the experts handle the baking!

My Ultimate Thanksgiving Prep Hack: HBC Bakery + Market

I am a huge believer in supporting local businesses, and my go-to for making the holiday meal manageable is HBC Bakery + Market. By utilizing their Thanksgiving pre-order menu, I can guarantee a spectacular, homemade-quality meal on my table without sacrificing precious hours of family time.

Think about it: instead of stressing over whether your pie crust is perfectly flaky or your rolls are proofed just right, you could be relaxing, sipping your coffee (like this amazing Iced Eggnog Latte!), and enjoying the morning. That’s the true spirit of the holidays!

Why Pre-Order? Let's Talk Menu!

HBC has made it so easy to get all the essentials you need for a complete feast—minus the labor. This is what you can find on their pre-order list:

• Show-Stopping Pies: Their Salted Caramel Apple Pie is famous, and you can also grab the classic Pumpkin Pie, Mom's Apple Crumb Pie, or a unique Local Apple Cranberry Crostata.

• Festive Cakes: Perfect for a modern dessert, check out the Pumpkin Chai Cake or the festive Cranberry Spice Cake with lemon glaze.

• Essential Breads & Rolls: Don't forget the carbs! Grab their Sweet Potato Brioche Rolls, Parkerhouse Pull Apart Rolls, Cranberry Pecan Bread, or Artisan Stuffing Bread.

THE CRITICAL DEADLINE: THIS FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21ST

This is the most important part! HBC Bakery is only accepting these orders for a short time.

You HAVE to get your pre-orders in by THIS FRIDAY, November 21st!

It's coming up fast, and you absolutely do not want to miss out on securing these amazing items for your Thanksgiving table. Once the cut-off hits, that's it!

Click the link below right now to browse the menu and secure your spot. Give yourself the gift of a stress-free Thanksgiving this year!

Click here to view the full HBC Thanksgiving menu and place your pre-order!

More Joy, Less Stress

This Thanksgiving, let's focus on what truly matters: gathering with loved ones. By simply delegating the baking to a fantastic local business like HBC, we free up hours to make memories.

What are you ordering? Let me know in the comments!

There's something magical about September in the garden. The tomato plants, heavy with fruit, seem to whisper "use me now or lose me forever." As I wandered through my garden this weekend, surveying the bounty that summer had gifted me, I knew it was time for one of my favorite preservation projects: roasted tomato sauce. 

When Life Gives You Too Many Tomatoes...

Like many gardeners, I found myself with an embarrassment of riches. Cherry tomatoes clustered like ruby jewels on their vines, and those larger varieties (whose names have escaped me in the flurry of spring planting excitement) hung heavy and ready. The thought of any of this garden gold going to waste was simply unbearable.

This is when I embrace what I call "abundance cooking" – that beautiful practice of transforming excess harvest into something that will nourish us through the darker months ahead. There's no strict recipe when you're cooking from abundance; there's only intuition, gratitude, and the wisdom that comes from working with what your garden provides. 

The Garden's Supporting Cast

My tomatoes weren't going solo in this sauce. The garden offered up its supporting players: plump garlic bulbs with papery skins that released their perfume at the first touch of heat, tender summer squash that would add body and subtle sweetness, and sharp onions that would provide the aromatic foundation every good sauce needs. 

The Magic of Roasting

Here's what I love about roasting vegetables for sauce: it concentrates flavors in a way that stovetop cooking alone simply can't achieve. The high heat caramelizes the natural sugars, creating depth and complexity. The cherry tomatoes burst and release their juices, while the larger tomatoes develop beautiful roasted edges. The garlic becomes sweet and mellow, and the onions transform from sharp to sublime.

The kitchen fills with the most incredible aroma – that perfect marriage of sweet, savory, and deeply satisfying scents that can only come from garden-fresh vegetables meeting fire. 

From Garden to Jar

After the vegetables had roasted to perfection, their edges caramelized and their flavors concentrated, I transferred everything to my blender. This is where the magic really happens – watching separate ingredients become one unified, vibrant sauce. The beautiful orange-red color that emerged spoke of summer sunshine captured in liquid form.

Back to the stovetop it went, where gentle simmering married all the flavors together. I seasoned simply – fresh parsley from the herb garden (because why stop the garden theme now?), a touch of onion powder for extra depth, and Himalayan salt to bring everything into focus. 

The Satisfaction of September

There's something deeply satisfying about this kind of cooking. It's practical, certainly – making use of abundance before it spoils. But it's also profoundly connecting. Every jar of this sauce will be a reminder of September's warmth when January winds are howling outside.

This sauce will grace pasta bowls on busy weeknight dinners, elevate homemade pizzas on lazy Sunday afternoons, and serve as the base for hearty soups when the garden lies dormant under snow. Each spoonful will be a taste of this moment, this harvest, this gratitude. 

A Recipe Born from Abundance

The best part about abundance cooking is that it teaches you to trust your instincts. Measurements become suggestions, and your senses become your guide. Taste as you go, adjust as needed, and remember that the best recipes are often the ones that come from the heart – and the garden. 

Garden Abundance Roasted Tomato Sauce

Serves: Makes approximately 4-6 cups of sauce Prep Time: 20 minutes Roasting Time: 35-45 minutes Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes 

Ingredients:

• 4-5 pounds mixed tomatoes (cherry tomatoes and larger varieties), halved or quartered
• 1 large onion, roughly chopped
• 6-8 cloves garlic, peeled and left whole
• 2 medium summer squash, chopped into 1-inch pieces
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1-2 teaspoons Himalayan salt (to taste)
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Prepare the vegetables: Wash and roughly chop all vegetables. For cherry tomatoes, simply halve them. Quarter larger tomatoes. The pieces don't need to be uniform – rustic is beautiful here.
Toss and roast: Place all chopped vegetables on a large rimmed baking sheet (use two sheets if needed to avoid overcrowding). Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper.
Roast: Bake for 35-45 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until vegetables are caramelized around the edges and tomatoes have released their juices.
Blend: Allow vegetables to cool slightly, then transfer to a high-powered blender. Blend until you reach your desired consistency (I prefer a slightly chunky texture, but blend until smooth if you prefer).
Simmer and season: Pour the blended mixture into a large saucepan over medium-low heat. Add parsley, onion powder, and additional salt to taste. Simmer gently for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce reaches your preferred consistency.
Taste and adjust: Season with additional salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
Store: Cool completely before refrigerating for up to one week, or freeze in portions for up to 6 months. 

Cook's Notes:

• Don't have summer squash? Try zucchini, bell peppers, or even carrots
• For a smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika
• This sauce is perfect for canning using proper water bath methods
• The recipe is completely scalable – use what your garden gives you!

From my garden to your table, with abundance and gratitude.

You know I'm always on the hunt for the next big thing, and let me tell you, I stumbled upon an absolute gem this weekend: the Gioia Pop-Up! If you're a fan of fresh, authentic Italian goodness, get ready to be obsessed.

For those of you who already frequent Gioia Market in Wooster Square—your corner market reimagined—the pop-up is an exciting extension of that incredible vibe and quality, focusing on those can't-miss Italian favorites and bringing them right to your plate.

The Vibe: Little Italy Meets Local Love ❤️

Located right next to the main market (150 Wooster Street, New Haven, CT), the pop-up takes all the charm of the market—the dedication to quality, the curated provisions, and the neighborhood feel—and centers it around a tight, drool-worthy menu.

It feels like you’ve been invited into a cozy, bustling Italian kitchen. The energy is fantastic, and it perfectly complements the sophisticated simplicity of New Haven’s Little Italy neighborhood. It’s casual, friendly, and totally focused on the food.

What I Ate (And What YOU Need to Order!) 🤤

The menu is a celebration of what Gioia Market does best: freshness and authenticity. Here’s a quick rundown of the must-try items I devoured:

The Fresh Pasta: This is non-negotiable. Gioia is known for its house-made sauces and pasta, and the pop-up showcases them brilliantly. The pasta dish I tried (a simple yet perfect Cacio e Pepe) was the definition of al dente perfection, coated in a sauce that tasted like it was stirred 30 seconds ago. Seriously, skip the grocery aisle—this is the real deal.

Artisan Salumi & Cheese: As a pre-meal starter, we grabbed a platter of their curated meats and cheeses. If you want to impress your friends (or just treat yourself), this selection is phenomenal. It’s a true taste of Italy, highlighting their market's expertise in Italian provisions.

The Sweet Finish: You cannot leave without trying something sweet. While the Market has great gelato, the pop-up often features special seasonal pastries. I grabbed a cannoli that was so light and crisp, filled with just the right amount of sweet, airy ricotta. 🤌

Why You Should Go (Before It Pops Down!) 📣

The beauty of a pop-up is its exclusivity—it won't be around forever, and that's what makes it special!

Experience the Market: It’s a great way to sample the quality of food that goes into every product sold in the main Gioia Market. If you love the pop-up, you know you'll love shopping the fresh produce, sauces, and ingredients right next door.

Support Local: You’re supporting a fantastic New Haven establishment that is passionate about bringing high-quality, local options to the community.

Parking is Easy: A huge plus in this busy neighborhood? They have private parking! Makes grabbing a quick, delicious meal so much easier.

Gioia Pop-Up Location & Hours: Check the main Gioia Market page for the pop-up schedule, but remember the market itself is open:

• Tues–Sat: 10a–6p
• Sun: 10a–5p

Go get your Gioia (joy) on!

DISCLAIMER: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps support my blog and allows me to keep creating helpful content. I only recommend products I personally use and genuinely believe in. All opinions expressed are my own honest experiences with this product.

 

Spoiler: This espresso machine paid for itself in less than a month!

Let me ask you something: How much do you spend on coffee every month? If you're like me, probably way more than you'd like to admit. Between my morning latte and the occasional afternoon pick-me-up, I was easily dropping $150-200 a month at coffee shops. 😅

That all changed when I got my hands on this incredible espresso machine. And honestly? I wish I'd made the switch sooner! 

Why I'm Obsessed With This Machine 

☕ 20-Bar High-Pressure Extraction

This isn't your average coffee maker. The 20-bar pressure system extracts rich, flavorful espresso with that beautiful crema layer you see at fancy cafés. Every shot looks and tastes professional-quality.

🥛 Steam Wand for Creamy Milk Foam

The steam wand is an absolute game-changer! It creates that silky, creamy milk foam that's perfect for lattes and cappuccinos. I've even been practicing my latte art (with surprisingly decent results!). 

💧 Detachable Water Tank

No more awkward pouring or trying to fit the entire machine under your faucet. The detachable tank makes refilling and cleaning incredibly easy. It's these little design details that make a huge difference in daily use. 

✨ Multiple Coffee Styles in One Machine

Whether I'm craving a straight espresso shot, a smooth Americano, a frothy cappuccino, or a creamy latte, this machine does it all. It's like having an entire café menu right on my kitchen counter! 

🧼 Easy Cleanup (Seriously!)

I was worried about the cleanup, but it's honestly so simple. Just release hot water through the steam wand, give it a quick wipe, and you're done. Takes literally 5 seconds. No complicated disassembly or hard-to-reach parts.

The Results?

I've been using this machine every single morning for the past month, and here's what I've noticed:

• Saved over $150 already (and counting!)
• My mornings are actually more relaxing - no rushing out to beat the coffee shop line
• I can customize my drinks exactly how I like them
• Friends are constantly asking me to make them coffee when they visit 😂

Is It Worth It?

Absolutely! If you're spending money on coffee regularly, this machine will pay for itself incredibly fast. Plus, there's something really satisfying about making your own café-quality drinks at home. 

Ready to Become Your Own Barista?

If you're tired of overpriced coffee and want to start making professional-quality drinks at home, I can't recommend this machine enough!

🔗 Get Yours on Amazon Here


What's your favorite coffee drink? Let me know in the comments - I'd love to try making it with my new machine! ☕✨