Happy What’s Up Wednesday from Detroit!
You guys…I am just having the BEST time here in Michigan. Andrew and I lived here 20 years ago and truly, I’ve wanted to go back every year since, but it just never happened. I’m on cloud nine right now.
Okay, tomorrow is Thanksgiving which means we better get movin’ today!
As always, on the last Wednesday of every month, Sheaffer and I host this little linky party where we share what’s going on with us right now. It’s a little food, a little family, a little what we’re wearing, a little what we’re doing, a little what we’re watching and a little bit of everything else all in one post.
Here we go…
THANKSGIVING FOOD!!
Today, I am also sharing my THANKSGIVING EVERYTHING POST!
In this post here, I have everything you might need from…
…cocktails…
…to side dishes…
…dressings…
…pies and more!
You can see it all HERE!
Oh all I’ve been doing over the last 48 hours has been reminiscing. It has been SO much fun being back in Detroit. It truly feels like we were just here. It is really, really hard for me to believe it’s been TWENTY years.
Let’s take a little look back…
…here we are with Roary, the mascot.
My best attempt at a snowman outside our home in Dearborn, Michigan.
This was our first Christmas as a married couple, and we spent it all alone (as we did Thanksgiving) in Detroit. I wouldn’t trade those memories for the world. It was the perfect way for us to spend our first holiday season. This was our tree in our apartment.
There was a pond in our neighborhood and here we are standing in front of it in that festive Michigan snow 🙂 .
With the holiday season approaching, I thought it would be an excellent time to share a list of MY FAVORITE SMALL BUSINESSES! I try to share them as often as I can throughout the year, but I wanted to make one list for you just in time for the holiday season. I personally LOVE all of these businesses, so I hope you check them all out when making your gift purchases this season.
The ONLY place my girls get their bows. These are the absolute very best!
My cousin Casey owns this amazing business while my cousin Brooke owns…
The best place for both indoor or outdoor pillow covers!
#3: OH SO CUTE
If you want hand painted pottery, my friend Lori is the place to go! Whether you meet with her in person to create or do it from afar, she makes personal pieces you will treasure forever. You can reach out to her at loriclark413@gmail.com
I love a lot of candles, but this Texas brand is my FAVORITE! I have been buying their candles for over 20 years now. My neighbor on Nantucket now even buys them because my home there smells so lovely. They are truly the very best.
#5: HERE’S YOUR SIGN
Amy makes THE CUTEST original wall art! Whether you want something super specific (like my birthday signs) or something festive/holiday fun, she’s your girl for all things signs.
#6: COZY CARMEL
Everyone wants to snuggle under our Cozy Carmel blanket. I gifted these so many times last year! They are just the softest, coziest throws to add to your home. They make excellent gifts (after this trip to Nantucket, I bought my sweet dad one…he clearly loved mine!).
I am so so so thrilled with my Bible now that it’s been fixed up. My Bible turned out so well that Andrew sent his off too and he too is now also so thrilled. If you have a worn Bible that needs a little love, they are your people!
These are just a few of my favorite smaller businesses that I hope you remember this holiday season.
We have been all about Leopard football!
Last Friday morning, we loaded up in a bus and followed the team way out to Midland, TX (about six hours away)…
…for round two of the playoffs. You guys, WE HAD SO MUCH FUN!!!!
A small group of freshman/JV were asked to join the Attack Team (scout team) and practice post-season with the varsity and travel with them to all the games. Smith is having THE VERY BEST TIME. Y’all…we have been leaving our house at 4:20 AM to get him to these practices (YES!), and he doesn’t get home until almost 6:00 PM, but he is truly living his best life right now. Even though he can’t take the field in these games, we have had so much fun getting to know other families and cheering on these Leopards.
Cold, tired and happy, but we are on the field post-game because…
…we won BIG! The Leopards play again this Friday which means…Smith made the choice to stay home with another family to practice all week instead of going to Detroit. We are missing him BIG, but he didn’t even hesitate. He’d rather wake up early and let the varsity practice against him than go on vacation. I’m super proud of my boy. I’m bummed but thrilled for him.
Well, it’s been a minute since I’ve been to a Detroit Lions game, so needless to say, I am VERY excited about my Thanksgiving plans this year!
Did you catch my NOVEMBER BOOK REVIEW?!
Five books, all very different, on review!
If you missed it, make sure you check it out HERE! If you have book recs for 2025, I’ll always always take those too!
Don’t forget, I have my beloved CHRISTMAS PLAYLIST (it’s SO GOOD!), and this year, I also have…
…a CHRISTMAS INSTRUMENTAL list as well for those times when you need quiet music, no vocals. I hope you enjoy both of them!
Here’s a little LUXE FOR LESS just in time for your holiday season…
#1: Cute Hobo Tote Handbag Mini Clutch Purse with Zipper Closure
#2: Classic Square Sunglasses
#3: Gold Plated Eternity Rings for Women
#4: Birthstone Necklace for Women
#5: Gold Plated Clover Lucky Bracelet for Women
#6: Stainless Steel Bracelet Jewelry Crystal Bracelet With Cube Zircon
#7: Gold Plated Bangle Bracelets Cubic Zirconia Stones
#8: Woven Bag for Women Shoulder Purse
#9: Crescent Shoulder Bag
#10: Classic Aviator Sunglasses
#11: Retro Oval Sunglasses
#12: Large Woven Bag Tote Bags
#13: Dainty Gold Name Necklace Personalized Initial Tag
#14: Suede Hobo Bags
#15: Luggage Sets Expandable Suitcase Double Wheels TSA Lock
#16: Faux Rabbit Fur Throw Blanket
#1: Open Toe Slipper with Cozy Lining
#2: Black Flat Sandals
#3: Rhinestone Ballet Flats
#4: Steve Madden Women’s Hadyn Slide Sandal
#5: Project Cloud Clogs for Women
#6: Women’s Slippers Platform Mini Boots
#7: Classic Winter Ankle Snow Boots
#8: Steve Madden Women’s Starling Sneaker
#9: LUCKY STEP Women’s Platform Sneakers Rhinestone
#10: Women 2 Piece Outfits Oversized Knit Loungewear Loose Slouchy Sweater Set
#11: Womens’ Sports Bra Longline Wirefree Padded with Medium Support
#12: Fuzzy Fleece Jacket Button Down Sherpa Coats Casual Winter Warm Outwear with Pockets
#13: Oversized Splice Quilted Lightweight Puffer Jacket Casual Padded Coat
#14: Oversized Sweatshirts Half Quarter Zip Pullover
#15: Fuzzy Fleece Pullover Sherpa Sweatshirt
#16: YOGA Butterluxe Matte Faux Leather Leggings for Women
We will be back in McKinney for the annual Home for the Holidays! This is one of my FAVORITE McKinney traditions!
EVERYTHING!!!!!
I’m off, friends!
I hope you have a wonderful, wonderful Wednesday!
If you blogged WUW, please don’t forget to link up below.
It’s Thanksgiving Eve!!! Enjoy every minute! xx
Elspeth says
Have the best Thanksgiving and time away!
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
Mix and Match Mama says
Thank you so much! You too!
Susan Jeffries says
I love the small business gift ideas! Enjoy your trip!
Diane Moore says
Happy Thanksgiving!
Enjoy the rest of your vacation!
Mix and Match Mama says
Happy Thanksgiving to you too!! xx
SS says
Shay,
Welcome Back to Detroit!! You all need to come back to MI when we have beautiful weather. I know you said in Detroit, but they are saying small chance of Northern Lights on Thanksgiving (but clouds could be an issue)!! I haven’t been to a Lions game on Thanksgiving since high school!! Lol!!! Have fun!!! Safe travels…
Mix and Match Mama says
We are so excited to be here!! Happy Thanksgiving!! xx
Bev says
Oh my goodness, this had me smiling knowing you’re here in Detroit! I told my husband I bet you’re going to the game! This town is crazy about our Lions and they have finally given us good reason! Enjoy the rest of your stay and Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family! 💙🩶
Mix and Match Mama says
And to you too!!!
Bev says
p.s, I’ve been listening to the Christmas instrumental playlist this week as I prep all the side dishes and both my husband & I are enjoying it! Thank you for sharing!!!
Mix and Match Mama says
Fantastic!! I hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
Sarah Shaneyfelt says
I hope you have the best time in Detroit! I love that your family went with y’all to see where you lived your first year of marriage. How special for your kids! And way to go Smith for the dedication!! Happy Thanksgiving, Shay!
MeetTheShaneyfelts
Mix and Match Mama says
My mama heart misses him BIG TIME, but he is just having the time of his life. Happy Thanksgiving to YOU!!
Kay says
Shay-I totally thought that picture of you with the snowman was Kensington! It’s amazing how much she looks like you. I hope you and your family have the best Thanksgiving! Can’t wait to see all things Christmas on your blog. Your holiday home tour is my #1 favorite each and every year.
Dawn Timmons says
Those pictures are great!!! You and Andrew look so different and keep improving with age which is not something everyone can say! Enjoy Michigan! We have family in Frankenmuth, MI. Have you ever been there? That’s about an hour and a half away from Detroit. I realize that’s probably not a side trip you have time for this week, but it is a town you would absolutely LOVE if you have never been! The whole town shows off its German culture and preserved Bavarian heritage. Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland store is an experience in and of itself! The food is amazing and it’s home to the oldest brewery in MI. It is the cutest little town. Clearly, I love it! 😊❤️
Enjoy the game and your time in Michigan. Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family, Shay!
Alison says
Happy Thanksgiving! Enjoy your time away!
Julie says
Welcome back to Detroit!! You’re in my hometown. I hope you go to the parade and have a blast at Ford Field. The Lions fans are unmatched. GO LIONS!!
Amy Rae D. says
I hope you and your family have a wonderful and Happy Thanksgiving.
Megan says
Bring ear plugs for the game. Lions fans are LOUD! You’ll have the best time at the game!
Becky G says
Welcome to Detroit! You all are right around the corner. I hope you all stopped in to Lucy & the Wolf in DT Northville. Great little place. And what a year to see a Lions game. Us lifetime Detroiters are so excited! Stay warm and enjoy our city.
Bri says
I’m glad you’re enjoying your time in Detroit! It’s always nice to go back to a former home!
Julie says
So fun that you get to go to a Lions game! Even though we live in Iowa, my son has been a Lions fan since he was little (he is now 18). My husband took him to their home playoff game against the Rams last year and it was an incredible experience!! Worth battling the snowstorm to get there. 🙂
K.K. says
Happy Thanksgiving, Shay!! I’m thankful for you and your blog!
Have the best time, and I look forward to game day photos you may post. 🙂
Kristen says
OMG , that picture of you and the snowman , I thought that was K!!! I had to do a double take!
Happy Thanksgiving.. I am soo thankful for this blog & community!
Lyssy says
I grew up in Northville, Mi such a great little town. Now I live in NYC and it’s quite the polar opposite 😂 Enjoy the lions game!! Glad to see them finally winning again 🦁
Mix and Match Mama says
I absolutely ADORE Northville!!! I love that you grew up there, Lyssy!!
Marisa Patel says
I hope you have a great time in Detroit and a safe trip home. I might run into you in downtown McKinney!
Jen L. says
Don’t forget to visit Frankenmuth! It’s a Bavarian town with a huge Christmas store and a lot of other fun things. Google it! 😀
Laci says
Happy Thanksgiving! Enjoy Michigan and the LIONS!
Heather says
GO LIONS!! My cousin is the head coach and we were up there last weekend to hang with him a bit on Saturday and then went to the game on Sunday. We’ll be cheering the Lions on tomorrow too! What an incredible season they’re having, we’re so proud of him and the way he’s leading the Lions.
Happy Thanksgiving to your family!
Melissa says
Wow! Such a Dan Campbell fan, and we’ve never been Lions fans before. Hoping this is their season! (Unless the Hawks can figure it out.) 😉
Hallie says
Shay, I am so happy that you are back in michigan and are going to cheer on the lions tomorrow! We love our Lions!! I am born and raised in Michigan and now raising my kids here, but if you guys get the chance you should check out downtown Rochester! They light every building in the entire downtown and it is beautiful and truly something to see! If not, something to add for next time! But so glad that you are in our state and enjoying it. I hope you have the best Thanksgiving day with your family!
Stacey says
So glad you got to visit The Mitten. I would have been so shocked if I saw you and your family walking around. At least the weather was good for you, next week the highs will be in the 30’s. Happy Thanksgiving!
Holly K says
How fun!!! My husband has been a devout Lions fan since the 80s when his favorite Iowa Hawkeyes player went there which means he’s been saying “next year is their year” for almost 40 years and now, FINALLY, it IS their year! 😉 It was part of our marriage vows that I become a Lions fan and that we raise our kids to be Lions fans which made us outliers where we live in Iowa surrounded by Packers, Chiefs, Vikings, and Bears fans. Our first Thanksgiving together 28 years ago was spent in Detroit (actually Pontiac then) for the Lions game on Thanksgiving! We lost but it was still the most fun and I bet tomorrow is even more fun because this team is magic. Ford Field and downtown Detroit around the stadium is AMAZING, . Protip: the Hudson Cafe is the best spot for pregame brunch. ENJOY and GOOOOOO LIONS!!!!
Lisa K. says
I thought that was Kensington in the pic with the snowman! Happy Thanksgiving!!
Deb says
Happy Thanksgiving – thanks for all the great shopping and recipe ideas!
Mary Straus says
Hi Shay
Welcome to Michigan!!! Don’t know how long you are in town for, but check out greek town, grosse pointe, somerset mall (if you want exquisite shopping).😉 It’s about 45 minute max from downtown Detroit. Not sure where you are staying, but have fun.
Arika says
Our high schooler stayed behind on a vacation to Disney two years ago due to his high school soccer team making the playoffs. He was the only sophomore on a varsity team of mostly seniors, so he didn’t get much playing time that year. But still – not a moment of hesitation. It’s great to see our kids embracing what they love to do!
Turquoise Jewellery says
Love this update! It’s always fun to read about what’s going on in your life and get some inspiration for the month ahead.
https://www.xanderkostroma.uk/ourshop/cat_1743369-Turquoise-Jewellery.html