This is an honest question—friend to friend.
“How are we really doing?”
Because right now, I’ve got a puffy left eye (sorry if TMI), a to-do list that seems to grow by the minute, and a never-ending internal battle to slow down in a world that keeps speeding up.
It feels like time is moving faster than usual—or maybe I’m just not as organized as I’d like to be.
Then again, am I ever?
Now, let’s take a moment to talk about the very unserious things that can make us a little happier, starting with an amazing life hack for the holidays.
"Simply pop your coat on before answering your front door. If it's someone you don't want to see, you can say you are on your way out. In the unlikely event, it's someone you do want to see, you can simply say you've just arrived home".
-Jane Hoole Garner, St. Ives
Things I’m Loving & Saving For Later
Los Poblanos Lavender Products: If you're not already obsessed with this farm-to-bath lavender line, get ready.
Hand-Painted Ornaments: Adding a touch of handmade magic to your tree feels so personal.
Pretzel Gingerbread House Kits: Think gingerbread, but with a twist!
Vintage Hat Boxes for Gift Wrapping: Who needs standard wrapping paper when you can use vintage hat boxes?
Honey-Colored Espresso Cups: I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect espresso cup, and these honey-hued beauties are my latest obsession.
5 Insider Secrets to Elevate Your Holiday Season
Small touches that make a big impact.
1. The $18 Secret to French Café-Level Hot Chocolate
No need to book a flight to Paris for that velvety cup of indulgence.
Moonstruck Drinking Chocolate is the ultimate insider secret—rich, creamy, and crafted from single-origin beans. Each sip feels like you’re sitting at a charming café in France, only you're cozied up right at home. Luxurious and decadent, this is the kind of hot chocolate that turns any winter day into something special.
2. The $12 Holiday Spice Blend Only Chefs Know About
Rumi Spice’s Afghan Saffron Blend is the secret weapon in any chef’s holiday kitchen. Add warmth and depth to everything from mulled wine to roast meats.
This blend always sells out fast as the holidays approach.
3. The $13 Secret to Creating That Cozy Holiday Vibe
Here’s an insider holiday scent hack that doesn’t involve expensive candles: Moso Natural Air Purifying Bags. They’re designed to purify the air naturally, but here’s the secret: toss one in your pantry or linen closet, and the subtle scent of activated bamboo charcoal creates that fresh, cozy holiday scent you crave—without chemicals or overpowering fragrance. They last for two years, and you can recharge them by simply placing them in the sun.
4. The Artisan Cookie Mold That Makes Your Baking Pinterest-Worthy
Elevate your holiday baking game with Brown Bag Cookie Molds. These hand-carved molds make stunning cookies that double as beautiful holiday table decor. From shortbread to gingerbread, your cookies will become the highlight of your holiday spread.
Brown Bag Designs—they’re an insider favorite and tend to sell out quickly.
Everyone sends cards, but Pinhole Press Custom Holiday Cards take it up a notch. These personalized cards have a beautiful design and feel far more expensive than they are, giving your holiday greetings a bespoke touch without the hefty price tag.
Head to Pinhole Press and order early to avoid the rush. These custom designs will make your cards unforgettable.
The Italian Panettone No One Knows About
For those looking to impress holiday guests with a treat they’ve likely never had: Bonifanti Chocolate Panettone. It’s nothing like the dry, store-bought versions you’ve seen.
Made with real Italian chocolate and naturally leavened over 72 hours, it’s light, fluffy, and absolutely delicious.
What the Member’s Club is up to this week
Next week (Thursday, October 24, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM CDT) is October’s Ask Me Anything.
Exclusively for paid subscribers of The Cabinista.
If you have a question or if you’d like to meet some fellow Cabinistas, upgrade your subscription, and you’ll find your invite.
I’ll see you there ❤️
Until next time,
Love ya, mean it, bye!
Peyton.