Knead to Cook

Food & fitness obsessed girl.

2020 Holiday Gift Guide Small Businesses.

by Filed Under: Gift ideas, Holiday, Holiday Gift Guides

I keep saying I’m done but yet, here we are again. I couldn’t forget my favorites. Small businesses you can support online! Great gifts. Great prices. Let’s go!

I couldn’t resist the White Paws dog toys. They are a bit more resistant to soft toy destroying dogs. So they do last longer! Squeakers added for more dog fun 🙂 Funny spin for the adult dog parents who love their White Claws.

Admittedly, I love smudging my house. It’s a way to energetically cleanse a space. Negative energy, I smudge. New home… you bet I’m doing it. I have a jar on my windowsill with my Palo Santo. This is a small business owned set of Palo Santo and it’s a great price and a great way to help a small business out.

Anyone who needs a fun little stocking stuffer or small under $15 gift (closer to $11 with the coupon code). This lip scrub I personally own, need more of, is phenomenal. Small business and black owned company.

Recycled wine bottle glasses. Calling all wine enthusiasts! What a lovely gift for newlyweds, parents, friends, relatives… $25 and it really is a unique gift idea.

Beard balm for the guys! Great stocking stuffer or small gift exchange idea. Maybe even Santa would love this one!

One of the most on-trend styles now and this version is quite affordable. Personalized necklace. Think of a new momma on your list, teen, young lady. It’s lovely, great price and so thoughtful.

This hair mask is on my gift list for someone special. Perfect self care gift or stocking stuffer.

Any sports fans on your list? Kids? Teens? A small business owner, who is also a teen, created these in various sports and they are adorable!

Another great black owned small business. This Piri Piri seasoning is phenomenal on roasted vegs, tofu… or whatever protein you’re using. Great for the cook on your list. Stocking stuffer idea for the grill master. Something a bit different than the usual.

I’m trying to squeeze as many ideas on this guide as possible. A military owed business that creates yummy, healthy dog treats. Various flavors but these are our pups favorites apple and hemp. Vegan too!

I bought this set for Bill (hopefully he doesn’t see this). I love the meaning behind it and wanted to share. Great price. Would work for males and females and let’s face it… who doesn’t need protection from negative right now?


This Tibetan bracelet puts focus on the Red colors in the jewelry, which is known to be able to attract good fortune both in your personal life and in your business endeavors. 
By wearing this bracelet all of the time, you can ward off all of these negative effects to help improve upon the quality of your life. This is all due to the belief that the red string helps to absorb negative energy to transmute it into something positive for you to enjoy. 


That’s a wrap! Enjoy and Happy Thanksgiving! ~ox



— Knead to Cook

2020 Holiday Gift Guide: Stocking Stuffers

by Filed Under: Holiday, Holiday Gift Guides

You all know I’m big fan of the ear cuffs. This cuff adds a fun bit of interest without an additional piercing. Would work any teen, young lady right on up as a gift! And the price point is perfect.

This has been on my Amazon list forEVER and a day and once we move, I need to buy it. A USB charged lighter for candles. Genius and reduces waste. I’m here for it! ANYONE (well not kids, on your list would fully use this!).

When I stumbled upon my favorite masks on line, I started to check out their other products. I bought these hair ties and immediately fell in love as they don’t create bumps and humps in my hair. They last a long time and let’s face it, anyone who has medium to long hair always needs new ties! These don’t damage the hair. The coils hold it perfectly in place. Great price too!

Harney and Sons has been my go-to tea for about 10 years. It’s pretty much all I drink. This set is perfect for the holidays, being peppermint flavored, however also serves as a lovely digestive aid during the period of over consumption during the holiday season.

Not being a fan of animal products, I found a satin option. Satin pillowcases help prevent wrinkles, damaging your hair etc. This set includes 2 and is priced below $10 and has over 86k reviews 4.5 star reviews!

CBD. In particular, my favorite Ikthus CBD gummies or tincture make the perfect gift! I use daily to restore balance, help with pain management, reduce stress and anxiety and help me sleep. Win. My discount code gets you 15% off (code: Knead) and it’s on sale!

This mix is the BOMB! Its so good and I have it on repeat purchase. Hot cacao with turmeric mix. I put it in milk frother or just add hot milk. Top with whipped cream. It is so good and a lovely gift.

Blue light glasses. Everyone needs them! This set of 2 is less than $11 on sale now. Over 14k 4.5 star reviews. Another staple when we are at home on the computer or watching tv. Great as a gift or stocking stuffer.

I dare you to go look at this product, watch the video (a must) and tell me this isn’t the coolest thing ever! Like a cathartic activity for teens or adults. I may need this.

Final items and when don’t we need to calm the body? Hello 2021 isn’t looking any better than 2020. Baths on tap to relax and restore the body. EVERYONE can use this one. A indulgent item that will be appreciate by you or whomever you gift this to.

~ox

— Knead to Cook

2020 Holiday Gift Guide: Luxe gifts for the girls

by Filed Under: Gift ideas, Holiday Gift Guides

You asked for it, I did it for you. Prices range from $100 right up to $900. Indulgence at every price point. Okay, let’s get started.

These earrings are a beautiful twist on a classic stud. Black and white…you cannot go wrong! I feel like these are timeless and perfect for any woman in your life or yourself! Edgy and classic… the perfect combination.

This stackable ring that can be personalized & has endless possibilities. I love this so much for new brides, moms or grandparents.

Classic and understated. This heart pendant can be from your love, your children, your parents or your bestie.

I’ve always been a big fan of classic styled jewelry. This necklace is a bit of a departure from the classic single stone pendant. It has such a beautiful presence. I adore this necklace!

This is my favorite fall go-to jacket. Warm, cozy and rain and wind proof. It lasts forever and is well worth the investment.

Cozy robe anyone? We all need to replace our robes as its the one thing that just gets so tattered and at least I am, so reluctant to replace it. This beauty is luxurious, class and perfect.

Calling all coffee drinkers… this is the Rolls Royce of at home espresso makers. Looking for the ultimate gift you’ll use daily… here it is!

The genesis of me doing a luxe guide for the ladies were a few friends of my Insta stories commenting on my jewelry. I wear a sapphire and diamond band ring that Bill got me for our 10th anniversary and although I’ve never seen it anywhere ever, which is why I love the uniqueness of it, this ring is a beautiful classic. I am a big fan of sapphires and diamonds together. This ring also comes in other stones. Would be perfect worn alone or with your wedding set. STUNNING!

You wanted luxury… well this one doesn’t disappoint. Bill got me a similar ring, different metal to match my wedding ring, last Christmas. I’ve worn it for a year now and still love it. It’s spendy but a classic Cartier ring.
~ox

— Knead to Cook

2020 Holiday Gift Guide: Quarantining at home gift ideas

by Filed Under: Gift ideas, Holiday Gift Guides

This new pedicure system was newly released and I’m here for it. If you’ve followed my Instagram, I’ve been doing my manicures weekly and their polish is the BEST! Their polishes last with hard core use of your hands, for at least a week!

I know this one is a bit of a splurge but I’m all for spending and investing in something you absolutely love and will use. Well with months of isolation upon us again, a television has been a staple for Netflix binges. We recently bought a home with the most incredible millwork on the focal wall and we decided to buy this tv. The tv, while not in use, serves as a piece of artwork v. a big black box on your wall. It mounts flush to the wall and blends in perfectly. You can actually buy artwork or upload photos or your favorites right onto the screen. Etsy has a ton of seasonal/artwork/etc. for about $4 per image.

Bedding. We’ve all been there. You buy a set at Target or Homegoods. It’s okay. Eventually it’s not and you need to replace it. Around our anniversary we decided to buy a lovely set from Boll & Branch and we couldn’t be happier. The quality. The feel. It’s magical. Just goes to prove when you invest in something it will serve you a long time.

We’re cooking more and eating out less. This style vegetable knife is by far my favorite! Great gift for anyone who loves to cook on your list!

To pair up with the knife, this bar has been a game-changer for me. I cook, a lot. I mounted this on the outside of one of my upper cabinets and have about 4 or 5 knives on it. It protects their blades. It keeps them handy. Another great under $20 gift for any cook on your list.

Let’s get cozy for a winter walk or by the fireplace shall we? Oh this jacket! I have a zip up version of this wear it all the time. To work, home, for walks with the pups. My version is long sold out but this is the same but a full zip. The tan is gorgeous in person.Washes perfectly (I air dry then fluff for 5 mins in the dryer). There isn’t a teen or woman on your list who wouldn’t love this and around $30… it’s a great gift.

Let’s not forget the men! They need warm & cozy too! The men’s version comes in a ton of patterns and colors. I’d recommend sticking with a solid color for neutrality. It would work for grandpa, father-in-law, dad, brother… your sister’s boyfriend you need to buy for – you get the point.

Readers out there? I got a Kindle last year and it has been everything! I’ve far surpassed my book goal for the year a few months ago. Downloading books is so easy and fast. It’s a great gift for anyone who loves to read.

This was Bill’s contribution! He wants to get this for our new house, we have a small backyard…. Small fire pit for some outdoor, socially distanced activity. Roasting marshmallows, chatting by the fire. Finding different things to do during our time at home is so important right now. We have this one in our cart!

— Knead to Cook

2020 Holiday Gift Guide: For the hard to buy for…

by Filed Under: Gift ideas, Holiday, Holiday Gift Guides

This sleep headphones headband

Admittedly, this is a very random gift but one that will intrigue. A set of lightbulbs that when on, looking like flames. How cool to put outside on your light post or porch light? Reminiscent of the old gas lights. I’m digging these.

Okay if you haven’t gotten a Ring doorbell now is the time! We were hesitant forever to get it and now our new house will be completely outfitted with this magical recording device. You can monitor activity outside your home, verbally respond to someone at your door… records activities with night vision so yeah. It’s a fun yet practical gift you won’t want to live without.

I may have gotten this for my girls. How cool is this USB charger???? I’m dying. So unique and so fun. Under $15! Who couldn’t you give this to?

Think about the people on your list who walk early or late. Have a dog that they are strolling around the neighborhood with? Someone who loves to tinker around and needs extra light? This hat is perfect and a bargain around $10!

We have the small screenless Alexa‘s but now is the time to upgrade. The price is great. Think about family, social distancing and video calling??!! Watching cooking videos… sky’s the limit.

Have a coffee or tea drinker? In laws? Grandparents? This heated mug is perfect. Keeps the beverage in the cup hot for 1.5 hrs on a single charge. I feel like this gift works for pretty much everyone!

I wanted to share a gift for kids or adults! These bike wheel lights. So much fun! Great pricing. Great gift under $15 for any bike riders on your list.

~ox

— Knead to Cook

2020 Holiday Gift Guide for the Fitness Lover.

by Filed Under: Gift ideas, Health & wellness, Holiday, Holiday Gift Guides

I’ll be honest… we aren’t doing a big production Christmas this year. We sold our house a month ago (pending) and close mid December. We close on our new home the same day. We are downsizing, like BIG time, and because we bought a row home in the city, built in 1857 but completely gutted and renovated, we need to downsize our lives and furniture to fit! We’ve been selling every bit of furniture, donating and tossing possessions. With that, we have warned everyone in our family that the holidays will be quite simple this go-around. Plus with Covid, it will only be us, no in-laws, extended family or friends. No parties. Nothing. Small and simple is the theme, pretty much for all of 2020.

With that in mind, I wasn’t planning on gift guides but have had a ton of requests so I’m going to do a few good ones for you all. Let’s get started. Affiliate links to each product listed below.

Links:
These fitness cards would be an awesome addition to anyone’s gym. Perfect for the newbie or experienced fitness lover. Great new exercises or old favorites.

Always a winner, the newest Apple watch. This is on my wish list. My watch is a few versions ago and the oxygen blood level monitoring is mind-blowing. A tech fitness fan favorite for sure! And I gravitate towards the 44 because I love a big watch.

Thera guns are great but can be quite pricey! This version is a mini with a more tolerable price point! So great on sore muscles all over your body!

Apple air pod pro’s are on my daughter’s list this year. They are one of my favorites. They stay in my ears without causing ear pain. Sweat doesn’t cause them to fall out. Pair nicely with my Peloton and phone. My go-to!

This weighted jump rope is the PERFECT addition to your gym. Weighted jump ropes far exceed traditional jump ropes to boost your muscle and fitness. Built to boost muscle, fitness and endurance!

I cannot forget my runners out there. The phone dilemma. Carry it or not?! I hated to but the safety aspect is huge nowadays. This arm band has been receiving great reviews! Great price point and the perfect gift for anyone who hikes or runs!

I got a pair of these leggings and also here for more color options earlier in the year and I have to admit they are a dream! Wash and wear perfectly. Not see-through. So amazingly comfy! Tons of colors! I’m a convert.

Bill owns these. I got a pair. Then I loved them so much I got my dad a pair. Seriously one of the best pairs of sneakers (and here) I’ve ever owned.

And my favorite of all, the Peloton. We upgraded to the bike + in September. We received it in October. We are in love. The speakers, the swivel screen, the Apple connectivity. ALL OF IT. No words. When ordering, if you desire, you can use my referral code, which gets you and me $100 credit to use towards accessories or apparel.

Code: EY2RNX

So one gift guide down… more to come! Stay tuned.

~ox

— Knead to Cook

Gift Guide Just for You!

by Filed Under: Gift ideas, Holiday, Holiday Gift Guides, Vegan

I own the green and a red one… these polartec fleece pullovers from J. Crew are giving me life & warmth this year! Seriously these will keep you warm and toasty at home, post gym or wherever!

Oh it must go back to my Catholic school days but I love a good plaid. These menswear-inspired pjs are super cozy, fabulous and let’s face it – perfect for the holidays. Just imagine copying up by the fire with a hot cacao or matcha in hand. Count me in!

If you know me, this gift idea for you just makes sense. I’m a sunglass addict. Period. If anyone ever needs helps… Ray Ban’s are my go-to. These I wear all the time and are a great basic for anyone. Brown gradient lenses. Partial frame. Gold metal. Perfection!

This vegan, Tarte eye palette is my staple. Lovely colors that work for day-to-day looks that can be amplified for a smoky eye too. I’ve had this since last Christmas and use it every single day.

I love my daily prayer book. It’s the best way for me to stop and reconnect, disconnect from my racing mind and re-center. This one is on my list for 2020!

And this little sweet silver necklace is perfection! It doesn’t break the bank and it’s silver so it will last forever. I think this is too sweet to pass up.

And that’s a wrap on my holiday gift guides! If you need more help please let me know because I feel like I’m on a gift guide roll 🙂

Lots of love.

— Knead to Cook

Gift guide for the pets.

by Filed Under: Gift ideas, Holiday, Holiday Gift Guides, Vegan

Love your Yeti? Your pup will too! Keep their water nice and cold all year round with this Yeti bowl. It comes in a variety of colors and is the perfect gift. For an extra bonus, fill that bowl up with a bag of holiday treats!

Nail trimmers are a must for dogs! This one works perfectly without terrifying Fido 🙂 Our dogs don’t mind this one at all v. the terror that is evoked when we go to the local per salon. Plus you can do their nails quickly because it’s electric.

This dog bed is very similar to our tempurpedic bed we bought for our beloved Samantha (Olive now uses it). Durable and so supportive for aging dog or cat joints. We keep ours in her crate and she loves it! Vacuums easily and is quite dense.

Let’s not forget the cat lovers out there! This toy is multi-levels of entertainment for your furry friend. Our cat, who is ancient, still loves playing with toys like this! Easy and fun for hours!

Getting the dog to sit patiently in the tub while you’re giving them a bath… yes, count me in! You place a treat in this holder and Fido needs to work methodically at getting to it. In the meantime… you scrub away!

The next gift guide is all for you! ~ox

— Knead to Cook

Gift guide for the girls! Vegan.

by Filed Under: Gift ideas, Holiday, Holiday Gift Guides, Vegan

Oh this sweet little bag is perfect for any age girl. I stopped carrying a purse and use this type of wristlet all the time. Super easy, comfortable and it holds everything you need! Great price point for your daughter, girlfriend or you!

I own these. They are, by far, the most comfortable, shape your booty –fabulous leggings you will ever wear! I wear these with my combat boots & they are total badass. Cannot love these more! These go from the teen to beyond easily.

This is my go-to vegan perfume. I love giving this roller ball as a present. Under $30, smells fabulous and is a clean beauty item. Great for throwing in your bag, backpack or pocket. Smells like dreamy vanilla… love.

Sydney turned me on to this candle company and I just cannot. Laughing out loud. These soy candles are everything… no other words needed. For your bestie, mother, mother-in-law or whomever! The best!

There isn’t a person on my list who doesn’t love a salt lamp! And under $17 this is a gift that keeps on giving. Lovely nightlight, mediation light and some believe offer some lovely health benefits like cleansing, increasing blood flow, reduction in congestion… I love relax when mine is on and recenter. Both of my girls and I own them and truly love. It’s a substantial gift for the price!

These rings from Baublebar have taken the world by storm. They are beautiful, fun and a great price! A various amount of color options. A great price point under $50! Just so beautiful, classy, fun and ageless!

Tomorrow’s gift guide will be for the pets!

— Knead to Cook

Gift guide for the hard-to-buy-for people on your list. 2019.

by Filed Under: Gift ideas, Holiday, Holiday Gift Guides, Vegan

Hard to find people often love good food… or at least they need to eat! Daily Harvest offers great gift ideas from gift boxes to gift certificates. Breakfast to lunch or dinner options too! All totally fresh and oh so incredibly good!

For the person who has just about everything… this slim external phone charger is perfect! Throw it in your purse, backpack or briefcase and go! We all need an extra boost of power when out and about.

Business or avid adventurer? These packing cubes are a Godsend for packing and staying organized at that! These work great to organize your clothing/personal items in your luggage allowing you to pack and unpack in record time.

You all know I love my Misfit boxes each week. Ugly produce that is fresh and organic delivered right to my door. Great gift of healthy eating delivered weekly.

Acupuncture mat is on my list! Being a huge fan of the benefits of acupuncture this one hits all the pressure points on the body. Back Pain relief, neck pain relief, stress reliever, reflexology, sciatica and trigger point massage therapy… who can’t use that?

No words can adequately express my love for this vacuum. Dog hair is not an issue for this beast. Set it to run whenever you wish and it goes on its way to take care of the mess. We run ours daily and seriously, I never have to vacuum dog hair ever. Worth ever single cent.

Wednesday will be gifts for the girls!

— Knead to Cook