Hi Reader,

I hope this email finds you well! I’m so happy you’re here. Hopefully, you’ve been able to spend quality time with loved ones and eat until you couldn't take another bite. I know I did!

This newsletter may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure for more information.

What I'm Taking Time for Right Now - Christmas Shopping 💰

This week’s newsletter is coming to you a day early to help you snag some amazing Black Friday deals. My family and I have big financial goals for 2025, so we’re keeping Christmas pretty simple this year. While my husband and I agreed not to spend money on each other, I couldn’t resist sneaking in a couple of gifts for him. To keep my promise, I used credit card points and Fetch Rewards to cover the costs. Thanks to these points, we won’t need to spend a dime on gifts this year. Here’s what’s on our list:

For My Parents:

We got them a Skylight Digital Picture Frame ($120), a gift that has become a family favorite. I have one, my grandma has one, and we gave one to my in-laws a couple of years ago. Everyone loves it! You can add photos via email or the Skylight app, creating nice surprises every time a new photo pops up. It’s truly a gift that keeps on giving. And the best part? They’re $40 off for Black Friday!

For My Son:

At almost two years old, he has plenty of toys, so I’m trying to stick to a version of the “4 Gift Rule” I mentioned in my Christmas on a Budget post (sort of - I realize there are six gifts listed 😬). Although, let’s be honest—something practical isn’t always exciting for a toddler, so I’ve bent the rules a bit:

• ​Modular Play Couch: Perfect for his climbing adventures and imaginative play. It’ll grow with him as he starts building towers and forts. ($110)
• ​Turtle Stepping Stones: A great way for him to practice balance and motor skills while burning off energy. Plus, the turtle design makes this a win for my little animal lover. ($32)
• ​Magnetic Tiles and Magnetic Wall Decal: He’s obsessed with magnets and loves tinkering, so I know he’ll adore these. ($20 & $23)
• ​Crocodile Slippers: Our house gets chilly in the winter, and these will keep him warm. Plus, he loves slipping into our shoes, so these will be a hit. ($14)
• ​Never Touch a Hungry Hippo: A fun touch-and-feel book featuring one of his favorite animals. ($7)
• ​Babies and Kitties Book: We already have the Babies and Doggies book, and it’s a daily read. I’m sure this one will be just as loved. ($7)

For My Husband:

While sticking to my budget-friendly plan, I found a few things I couldn’t pass up:

• ​Mystical Dragon Castle Bookends: I have had the idea of getting him some cool bookends for a while now, and these perfect to pass up. He loves all things magic and fanasy, and they even come with a removable dragon and castle door bookmark! ($57)
• ​Beef Tallow and Honey Balm: He’s exploring natural, non-toxic alternatives, so this balm from a small U.S.-based business will be a treat. ($27)
• ​Beef Jerky Sampler: Because, honestly, men and jerky—need I say more? Lol. ($23)

For My Grandparents:

I’m planning some homemade goodies, including a loaf of sourdough bread, flavored butters, and an ornament with my son’s photo. Simple, heartfelt, and perfect for the ones who have everything.

That's it! So what do you think? Did we overdo it? What’s on your list this year? I’d love to hear your ideas!

Meal Plan of the Week

Here is this week’s meal plan to help simplify your week! Just print out the grocery list, and you’re all set. If these meals aren’t quite what you’re looking for, you can browse my tried-and-true family favorites here. Want more tips for the rest of your meals? In my post on meal planning, I dive into how I handle breakfasts, lunches, and snacks, as well as my strategy for creating easy pantry-pull meals—quick dinners made from ingredients you already have on hand! Check it out for a stress-free approach to feeding your family.

​Meal Plan Dec 1-7.pdf​

Let's connect!

Exciting news—we’re now on Instagram and X! 🎉 If you enjoy the tips, inspiration, and support you find here, you’ll love connecting with us on social media. Give us a follow to stay up-to-date on the latest blog posts, quick tips for busy moms, and a behind-the-scenes look at Taking Time. Let’s be friends and grow this amazing community together! Find us on Instagram @takingtimeblog and on X @TakingTimeBlog. Can’t wait to see you there! ❤️​​

New on the Blog:

How to Hack Your Cycle: Top Tips for Period Self-Care Practical advice for managing menstrual cycles through proper nutrition, light exercise, hydration, and relaxation techniques. It encourages personalized self-care routines to alleviate symptoms and enhance well-being during your period. Read article

Until next time, mamas!

I hope you enjoyed this week’s newsletter! If you did, please share this link with your friends so they can join the fun. As always, I love reading your replies, so don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions, struggles, or tips to share with other moms.

Happy Shopping!
Shelby