Happy SATURDAY, friends!
I hope your weekend is off to a cozy start.
Can I level with you?
I have a feeling whatever you’re doing this morning is more fun than what I’m doing. What am I doing? I am listening to my family complain all morning long about the fact that we are taking our annual Christmas card photos hours after driving home from last night’s football game. Bahahaha!
Maybe your family is all smiles for your Christmas card photos each year, but my family acts like it’s pure torture, and I’m the worst human ever for making us wake up, get dressed and stand in a field at 8:00 AM.
So, while you’re cozied up reading this blog post, just think of us in our Sunday best standing in a field with our worst attitudes.
Cheers to the weekend, y’all! 😉
If you know me, then you know that I’m not into Thanksgiving food. I mean, it’s good. It’s fine. It’s not bad, I would just rather have an enchilada. Or cheeseburger.
I don’t get super pumped about turkey and sides, so it’s odd to me that I cannot stay out of…
…these chips from Trader Joe’s. They taste just like Thanksgiving, and I can’t quit ’em.
‘Tis the season for my camera roll to look like this…
…I am “that” person with her holiday decor up early and only pics of her pups on her iPhone.
Oh we love, love, love…
…sending our clients to Italy!
One great perk to Italy is that it’s wonderful year around. No matter when you want to travel, Italy is always a great option.
Our clients sent along these photos and put this in their email: We are back from Italy and our trip was ABSOLUTLEY perfect! It’s hard to put in words just how thankful I am for all the planning you did. I was nervous traveling to Europe for the first time, but everything- from the transfers to the trains to the hotels to the tours- was seamless. Every single detail was thought out and it made our whole experience feel effortless and special.
We love what we do at Mix and Match Travel Agency!
We would LOVE to help you with your next vacation. Our agency does all the research, makes all of the reservations, handles any issues that arise, and creates custom, unique, concierge-style vacations. Whether your budget is small or large, whether you need something for just yourself (we love solo travelers!) or a huge group, we can handle it. We can even create destination weddings (complete with personalized websites for your wedding party and guests), corporate group events…if you are thinking travel, please think of us. Contact us today for more information. We would love to work with YOU!
Right now, there are SO many good finds…
…for both him and her at Nordstrom! I rounded up some of my FAVORITES AND PUT THEM RIGHT HERE!
It’s also the merriest time to shop at…
…TARGET!
How cute are these Christmas finds?! You can see them all HERE!
If you are looking for holiday gifts, I saw this one this week and immediately grabbed it for one of my girls…
…right now, THIS ENTIRE SET IS LESS THAN $17! This is a CRAZY GOOD DEAL! It’s going under the tree!
I am a huge sucker for…
…a neutral eye shadow palette, so I bought…
…THIS PALETTE for myself!
I picked up two more holiday gift sets for my other girls…
…THIS HOLIDAY LIP KIT (love!) along with…
…this PERFUME SAMPLER too!
Thank you, Kohl’s for always being one of my favorite sponsors! I love collaborating with you.
Yesterday’s #ootd was one I purchased…
…because it was so cozy and cute and oh so NOVEMBER!
THIS FLEECE comes in many other colors and prints, and is the perfect layer for my November days.
Who doesn’t love a cute fleece?!
This was my outfit yesterday, but I also tried on these two things to show you. I wore…
…THIS JACKET just last week to Smith’s game.
It comes in other colors as well, but the red is perfect for both of my kids’ high schools AND all things Christmas!
A hooded puffer jacket would make an excellent holiday gift too!
Speaking of which…
…Kohl’s has so many CUTE HOLIDAY SWEATERS (so ugly that they’re cute!) on sale right now too!
It’s just so me 🙂 ! There are some REALLY cute options HERE!
I got my first red cup of the season! Every single year, the festive holiday cup just fills MY CUP!
My order doesn’t change, but the cup adds a holiday pep in my step 🙂 .
Before we go today, I have our SATURDAY GIVEAWAY!
Last week, I gave away the new BODY RITUAL GIFT SET FROM COLLEEN ROTHSCHILD!
The winner of that giveaway is HALEY BOONE!
Congratulations, Haley! I emailed you this morning. Please email me back ASAP to claim your prize!
This week…
…I am going to give away some of my FAVORITE FESTIVE HOLIDAY FINDS!
Because it just makes me happy 🙂 .
Giveaway details below.
That wraps up our Saturday blog post! I will see you back here on Monday.
In the meantime, I hope you have the BEST weekend! xx
You must enter the giveaway via the link at the bottom of this post in order to be eligible to win (the Rafflepress will randomly select the name). There is only ONE requirement on the Rafflepress and that’s “BE A POSITIVE PART OF THE MIX AND MATCH MAMA COMMUNITY THIS FALL”.
That’s it. Maybe that means you’re thoughtfully commenting on most posts or maybe that means you’re sharing an IG quote of mine, trying out a recipe, reading a new book and being a part of the discussion…whatever it means to you, I just think we are all in this together, so I’m not going to ask you to jump through any hoops for the giveaway. Simply click the link to the Rafflepress add your entry for your name to be entered if you’re planning on being a thoughtful part of this community this fall. That’s it!
Easy as that! I will stop the giveaway and have the Rafflepress randomly select a name at 2:00 PM CST on November 21st. I will announce the winner’s names here on my blog on Saturday, November 22nd.
Laura says
I am not a chip person so have not tried those, but I cannot stop with the stuffing flavored popcorn. Btw I listened to the Trader Joe’s podcast you recommended and became even more obsessed too. I also have told just about everyone in my life and the man that checked me out at TJs last night that they need to listen as well 🤣 The only thing I disagreed with was that it wasn’t kid friendly. Their employees are far more kid friendly than any store we have ever been to and who can beat a lollipop at checkout!
Mix and Match Mama says
RIGHT?! It was just so fascinating! I’m glad you also listened!
Kelly Sites says
Happy Saturday. I just got home from a deployment to Jamaica. Poor Jamaica got hit so hard. Bless them. A few years ago we took our kids to beautiful Cancun and had the best time. However, one night I wanted a family photo and my whole family acted like it was death. They were so grumpy and resisted. Ugh. I was so annoyed. One second was all it would have taken. We ended up skipping it, and it sort of ruined my night. 🙂 Enjoy your day.
Mix and Match Mama says
So so hard. Thank you so much for what you’re doing there. xx
Jess says
Your commentary on family photos made me laugh. We’ve had to stick to candid shots for that reason, but one day I shall win and have all of us actually make it into the picture rather than just the kids. 😂
Elspeth Mizner says
I already picked up my red cup for the season too! So festive!! Happy Saturday!
http://www.Elspethsdaybyday.com
Janice says
Thanks for the eyeshadow rec!
Stephanie Gregory says
Okay, heading to Trader Joe’s is officially on my to-do list for today!
Bridget Wright says
Happy Saturday, love these seasonal posts! Taking holiday pics, or any family pics for that matter, is definitely a hated task of my family! The funniest Christmas Cards I’ve received were ones with a “naughty” and “nice” pics, showing a meltdown during the picture taking! Probably not as cute if it’s my teens and tweens doing it though!
Kathy says
So festive! I can’t wait to see your vacation recap!
Kim Parks says
I’m headed to TJs this morning for flowers; I’ll pick up a bag of those chips!!
Lori says
Thanks for taking the time to blog on Saturdays!! These posts are always so happy & fun to read <3
Reba says
I’m laughing as I read your opening sentences as I drink my coffee on my back porch in my pajamas at 8:00 am and I’m thinking of your family standing in a field all dressed up!
That Laneige set is SUCH a steal! Today’s post was the boost of happiness that I needed!
Nancy Granger says
I think I’ll head to Kohls today and check out that puffer jacket. Thanks for the recommendation, I’ve been looking for one.
Jenn clickner says
Happy Saturday Shay,
Can you review the Mario eye palette? I’m on the fence! Maybe an updated what’s in your makeup bag?
Thank you!!!
Mix and Match Mama says
It’s simple, it’s classic, it’s just really easy to blend neutrals. I love a neutral, blendable eye palette.
Maddy says
Your Saturday posts are always my favorite! So many festive and fun things every week! Curious, what is your go-to Starbucks order?!
Susan P Fitzpatrick says
I’m happy to see that my family isn’t the only one that complains about pictures and we haven’t had one in ages!! Let them complain! You will be so happy to have those pictures when your kids are grown and living on their own.
Twila Frichtl says
If only we would have a Trader Joe’s or it would do mailorder grocery delivery…😋
I would have never known your secret because your Christmas photos always show all smiles and never attitude😅
This giveaway would be perfect for me and our family Christmas trip this year🤞
Your Christmas tree twinkle looks so cozy and I cannot wait until the day after Thanksgiving when we decorate for Christmas🎄
Robin W says
Can’t wait for an update on how family Christmas photos went. You had me laughing out loud! Hope it all went well. Saturdays posts are my absolute favorite!! Enjoy your weekend!!
Rachael says
The Mario pallet is my favorite! And what’s a family photo shoot if it doesn’t start and finish with a meltdown or two?😂
Andrea says
Trader Joe’s is unbeatable when it comes to holiday treats. I have been addicted to their peppermint meringues ever since you mentioned them on the blog. Pavlovas are my favorite dessert and unfortunately hard to find on restaurant menus so these meringues make me extra happy!
Mix and Match Mama says
Kensington LOVES those meringues!
Kathy says
That Kohl’s holiday sweater is perfect for you, the 🐶 whisperer! I also think Target’s Christmas decor is on point this year. That wooden village is my favorite!
Suzanne Douglass says
I am also that person who has her decorations up early and lots of cozy pictures of her dog on her phone 😁
Carolyn says
Which magnesium product do you use for sleep?
Mix and Match Mama says
I always use this one (have for a few years now): https://avalonx.us/magnesium/
Valerie P says
Love all your pup photos! Our phone is not the different, only it’s our 2 kitties. 🙂 Thanks too for you for you gift ideas and Holiday finds! I’m always getting great ideas for gifts or decorating. I hope the photo shoot went well!
Patty Anderson says
Do you get the Starbucks reusable red cups too? I love those and already have three!
Family photos…never fun but always worth the effort, I think. I doubt my family would agree, though. This year since we’re scattered, I just asked each couple to send me their favorite photo from the year and I did a collage card. So much easier once they’re not living at home anymore.
Mix and Match Mama says
I don’t! I love the idea of a collage card 🙂 .
Amy Azza says
I want to give another huge shout out to Mix and Match Travel Agency and specifically Clare and Shanna. I love traveling ,and I love traveling solo, and they always plan the most amazing trips for me. This year I booked four trips and next year I already have two trips booked and will book at least two more. For solo travelers, they handle everything and you will be in the best hands. MMT anticipates your every need and remembers your preferences, so when you book with them again they already know what you love and it is seamless. This year, Clare planned an amazing birthday trip for me and my best friend to Turks and Caicos to celebrate our milestone birthdays, and in just a few weeks I will go on another amazing trip to the Bahamas for my birthday thanks to Clare. And Shanna knows all the best excursions and restaurants. Both women and the entire team at MMT are best in class. thank you thank you thank you!
Mix and Match Mama says
Amy, you are truly one of our FAVORITE people to work with every year. We are incredibly grateful for the opportunities you’ve given us. Clare and Shanna LOVE working with you! xx
Elizabeth says
Pup Christmas picture makes my heart so happy!! 🎄❤️. Love your furry crew!
Tanya Madden says
Your posts are so fun and always filled with great ideas and inspirations! But most of all… you have a joyful and very giving heart!
Mix and Match Mama says
Thank YOU so much for your kind words. xx
Lea S says
Would love for you to share the link for your favorite travel bags (from the giveaway!). This is what I want to get my sister for Christmas and I know you would have the best recs!
Mix and Match Mama says
It’s all right here: https://mixandmatchmama.com/2025/11/inside-my-carry-on-boca-raton/ THEY ARE MY FAVE!!
Katie Compton says
I just orders the Laneige set and the perfume set for gifts AND the reindeer and trees sweater for myself!! Thanks, Shay!
Lisa says
What a beautiful tree! 🎄🎄🎄
Patrice Bennett says
I also listened to The Trader Joe podcast – So interesting!
I’m seriously considering skipping the photo Christmas card and sending traditional ones this year.
Hope Santa won’t put me on the naughty list!
The give away looks Amazing!!!
MelanieL says
Such a fun post!! Your giveaway sounds like the perfect “Santa” gift for my 21 year old daughter!! And so funny about your family photos this morning…our photographer neighbor offered porch photos for neighbors with the fee being donated to our local food bank and instead of saying, no, I can’t get all my peeps together on a Saturday morning, I said YES to just me and my husband, got the porch decorated for Christmas and there we were the first time in 22 years getting pictures just the two of us again. I can’t wait to see how they turn out. ❤️
Amy says
Love your beautiful holiday home!
So well done
Maybe one day I will have you plan a vacay for me! Would love you to go to that wellness center in Germany- it looks amazing!
Elizabeth Bartlett says
I love all your posts, but the seasonal Saturdays are always just so fun! Thank you for sharing all the holiday magic and the not so magical moments with us!
Lori Bittenbender says
Yes, I am only allowed to schedule family photos every other year because everyone needs a year to recover. Thanks for hosting the give-away!
Kristin S says
Stbx is not a regular for me but is a treat. I need to get over there! I’m the same. The cups spark some joy. Even the cold cups!
Johannah says
New here, but this post put a smile on my face this windy Saturday morning. Thanks for that!
Alana says
Hahaha cackling at the thought of you listening to all the grumbling about family photos. My husband is the one who grumbles but he halfway smiled for a few photos! It’s always worth it to be able to look back at them years down the road though!
Brenda says
Doesn’t Sephora have the best sets this year?! I have had so much fun looking at and shopping for them! Also – so very excited to try the new body products from Colleen Rothschild!
I know you’re in Texas and it doesn’t get quite as cold as it might here in the Midwest, but have you tried any of the heated vests, gloves, etc.? We really love them for when we’re spending any time sitting outside for extended periods of time.
Have a great week ahead, Shay!
Mix and Match Mama says
I have not! I sure try those for our wintery trips though. Great idea!
Debra Lowe says
Love this post so much and love the real-ness of the complaining about family pictures – brings back memories from teenage years 😂. So many cute items in what you are wearing! Also can’t wait for the recap on Budapest and to find out who the celebrity was!
Julianne Leffler says
Would love more of whatyou’re buying for teen girls! I have one with a birthday close to Christmas, so double the gifts for her! Need some more good ideas! 🙂
Mrs. Clark says
That Laneige set is such a great deal and gift idea! I saw it on Amazon (my favorite place to shop 🙂 lol & was about to order a set & then remembered how much Laneige I already have! Still thinking about it though, especially since it has the caramel included & I’ve never tried that one. Hope you have an amazing day! ❤
Robyn says
I am hoping to pick up my “red” cup this weekend when I visit my son and daughter-in-law in a town with a Starbuck’s. Love, love, love the fleece jacket and coat that you linked. Thank you.
Marisa L Patel says
Thanks for telling us about the lip set and perfume sets, those will good for my girls as well! I do love that eyeshadow palette and may just have to get something for myself. I have not had my annual holiday Starbucks yet but it is on my to-do list. Do not feel bad about your photos, I also have a ton of pics of my dogs, my granddogs and my granddaughter…my kids get irritated because I never have any photos of them LOL
Alison says
I love that eyeshadow palette! I’m a neutral girl too, and I’m always looking for a new one! That comment about family pictures was cracking me up. Ours are next Monday, so wish me luck too!
Linda says
I am so glad I am not the only worst mom in the world because I make my kids get family photos every year. I have been doing this since they were really young, so I do not know why they always act like it’s a new thing. It is my favorite thing every year.
Love your beautiful tree. The pup underneath is adorable.