*This post has been sponsored, via in-kind product, by the Big Blanket Co. All opinions are 100% my own. Additionally, you may find affiliate links throughout this post. If you click on one of my affiliate links and make a purchase, I will make a small commission at no cost to you.

With the cold weather rushing in (it's finally in the 40s and 50s in Georgia!), there's no better time to start bundling up. Not to mention all the wonderful sales going on this month, meaning you can get the best deals on all the cozy necessities. 

It's obvious I'm a major bookworm, and the cozy seasons are my favorite. I love the fall aesthetic, but when it comes to Georgia weather, we only get a handful of "fall weather" days. But I love the chill that December brings, and I love to stay cozy until it starts getting warm again in March/April-ish. I've began collecting all the new cozies and wanted to share what's at the top of my list with you all, so you can get a move on upping your cozy supply and creating a hygge space perfect for your comfort. 

The coziest of blankets

As I was searching for cozy blankets, I came across the the Big Blanket Co. and immediately fell in love with the options they offered. All of their blankets are enormous - like bigger than our king size bed enormous. I reached out to them and they were gracious enough to offer me a blanket for the time and energy I put into creating content for them. I have to say this is one of the best in-kind product exchanges I've ever received. I share all of that to let you all know that I was gifted this product, but it truly in no way impacted my opinion of the product. In fact, I would buy a Big Blanket again. This time around I chose the Premier Plush™ in moss - it's one of my favorite colors right now and a color I like to mix into my personal and home style as a neutral. It's honestly so appealing. It's so cozy and definitely plush. With one layer, it's light enough for just a light chill, but wrap it up around you and it is warm, warm. I laid up under it for a while making videos and photo content and I was SWEATING (just check out that bang-sweat below).

The blanket is super stretchy and the best part? It's machine washable... in your home washer. No need to take it to a dry cleaner or laundry mat (I tried to home wash our king size white duvet cover and instead ended up making it look even dirtier?). I haven't washed mine yet, but I plan on doing so soon. It has shed just a bit since I received it, but mostly just on whatever clothes I'm wearing when I use it - it doesn't make some kind of unholy mess. I also tend to sit on one spot of the blanket while I work, so I've "flattened" the plushness a bit. I'm hoping it will appear brand new once I run it through the washer. But what's incredible is that Big Blanket Co offers a 100 night guarantee and free returns if you're not happy with your purchase - but I can pretty much guarantee you will be.

Like I mentioned, I definitely plan to purchase another Big Blanket in the future. Lately I've been eyeing the Premium Woven™ Blanket in gold cream geometric for our bedroom (because I've been hogging the plush to myself - and Courage - in my office). So for the utmost hygge environment, a Big Blanket is sure to increase your comfort and coziness. Purchase one ASAP.

Warm & comfy apparel 

I used to be a big fan of fuzzy socks, but have since moved away from that notion. Instead, I now prefer thick knitted wool socks. For some reason they tend to stay on my feet better, keep me warmer, and don’t slide off while I nap. Even more recently, I’ve become a big slipper advocate too. I’ve had slippers in the past... pretty much my whole life. But I would wear them sporadically, and never felt like I needed them, just more like I wanted to have slippers because why not. But I finally bought an incredible pair of slippers and I wear them nonstop. Maybe it’s because I’m now always at home since I’ve been working remotely. Or maybe it’s the soft and warm slippers than sold me, but warm slippers are now a must-have for me to fall fully into the comfort zone. 

Speaking of comfort, I know I’m not the only one living in leggings now. I don’t even know how many pairs of leggings I’ve bought in 2020, and in a plethora of colors. I have a variety of full-length leggings and bike shorts. I’ve also ventured into more sweatpants and have a few super comfy, yet inexpensive pairs. And lastly I’ve opted for more pajama sets. Because I can just throw on a sweater or cardigan for video chats and no one’s the wiser (or if they are, they truly don’t care because 2020).

Mood lighting

I had to start wearing eye glasses in the third grade for reading because of “mood lighting” in the classroom. The overhead lights were dark and we used lamps instead. I was the only one in my class reading chapter books and my eyes had to strain to see. Now I need glasses for the screens I stare at all day. But mood lighting doesn’t seem to be a problem for my eyes anymore. But I’ve found that it 100% impacts my mood and sends good vibes into my space. My office space is filled with lights associated with whatever holiday is near (so right now there are colorful Christmas lights all around the room), plus a personal lamp I use in the bed/reading space. During the day, I just open the blinds to soak in the outside sunlight. But I rarely turn on the overhead light. It just seems too harsh these days. And in the evenings, I tend to light a few seasonal candles as well. But honestly, I 10/10 recommend a lighting situation that meshes with your vibes.

Shelves & stacks of books

You knew it was coming, right? A space can not feel comfy and cozy to me unless I'm surrounded with books. My current situation included floor to ceiling color coordinated shelves, a rolling cart for my Book of the Month options, and books stacks under the tv. I just truly cannot fully sink into a space of comfortability without books to keep me company.

Plants

Who ever knew I'd be a plant lady? But the pandemic has changed folks, myself included. Plants may not give off a cozy vibe, but with close to fifty plant on a designated plant shelf and in the windowsill, they provide a never-ending sense of comfort for me. First off, they're good for the air quality in the space, but there's also something about tending and caring for them that allows me to tend to and care for myself a bit better. I really don't think that my space would feel the same without my green babes.

Rugs galore

While I don't necessarily love a carpeted room, I do love rugs, and I have many to cover the plain grey carpet in my library/office space. Area rugs can be pricey, but smaller rugs can be found at affordable prices at discount stores and by thrifting. Find a specific color scheme to stick to, or just find rugs that bring you joy. But you can stack them and rearrange them often to feel cozier in your space, and to change the look every once in a while (if you desire).

Pet space

If you have a fur baby (and what cozy space is complete without one?), you'll want some space for them in your comfy room. Courage loves to sit on the bottom shelf of my plant shelf, which I keep empty for her. But she also has a little tent and bed she can lay in (or play in), and of course she is welcome on the bed and rugs with me - wherever her heart desires.

Seating that makes sense

My office for work is also my cozy space, so I have a chair at my desk which I certainly don't use for reading. Instead, I have a full size bed in the space which I try to use like a daybed (an actual daybed, futon, sofa, or lounge chair would work well too). So this is where I spend my time cozied up in my Big Blanket, and lying upon piles of pillows (of which I can always use more). It allows me space for reading, working, and napping. So whether it's a chair or futon for you, or just a giant stack of floor pillows, you'll definitely want something that's cozy enough to sink into for the utmost rest and relaxation.

What's at the top of your hygge living list?

Scuf controller

A great controller can make or break your gaming experience. Scuf controllers are the best, and are completely customizable. Whether you're a Xbox or Playstation fan, Scuf has an option for you. And of course, you can use either controller on PC too. The option is entirely up to you (or the pal you're trying to gift).

Mechanical keyboard

Another critical accessory for PC gaming is a mechanical keyboard. The keys are much different and easier to operate than the keys on a traditional keyboard. It makes for easier PC gameplay. 

A fancy chair

A chair can be quite an investment, but those that are inexpensive are often really a case of "you get what you pay for." Why replace a new cheap chair every six months when you can spend more and get a chair that lasts for years and years. A Herman Miller chair is quite an investment, but one that's totally worth it and can help improve posture and help with a lot of those pains and aches associated with cheaper chairs. 

Mouse leash

While a wired mouse may not seem like the way to go for the most flexibility, they're typically great because there's less lag in gameplay than with a wireless mouse. So to make sure your mouse cable stays out of the way, you'll want a bungee mouse leash. It holds the cable up and out of the way so your mouse is stilly fully accessible, but it doesn't cause any tangles or snags! 

Monitor risers

Next up, monitor risers are great to get your monitors out of the way for more desk space, and to create more range in the height of your monitors to get them eye-level for you. You can go the traditional route with desktop risers, or choose an even roomier option with monitor arms. 

Wireless mouse

If you're not into the wired mouse and the mouse leash, then you definitely want a high quality wireless mouse instead. Logitech is totally the route to go because its pro-level responsive and ability to hold a long charge. 

Large monitor

The true gamer doesn't play on a tv screen, instead using computer monitors for the clearest graphics and best gaming results. You can connect the monitor to any platform, not just for PC gaming. But you want to get a high resolution monitor that's typically 24" or larger. The ASUS ROG Swift is one of the best monitors on the market right now, and currently sold out just about everywhere except Amazon. But of course, it's not the only option available. 

Wireless headset

Astro headsets are top notch quality and professionally-used in esports worldwide. They typically come with their own amp (or you can add one on) so you can adjust the sounds, volume, and amplification to your particular needs. The headphones are cushioned and soundproof. BUT you can remove the side panels on the headphones if you need the ability to hear your surroundings. This is another product you can totally customize to fit your particular needs. 

Extra large mousepad

Another must-have, especially for PC gaming, is an extra large mousepad. Using your mouse, you'll want the ability to fully move in whatever direction you need. A hard desk won't provide the necessary friction needed for precise movement, and a small mousepad certainly won't help anyone. I really like this one because you can plug it in via USB and it lights up.

I've got to send out a very special thanks to my husband for helping me put this guide together because I know nothing about gaming. This particular guide is more specific to consoles like Xbox, Playstation, and PC as opposed to more handheld gaming devices.

What's on your gaming must-haves list?

There are products in this gift guide that were provided to me in exchange for content creation. Any and all opinions are entirely my own. I am only promoting these items based on my personal interest in them. Any items I was gifted will be annotated with a (*). This post may also include affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission, at no cost to you, if you click my link and make a purchase.

Well folks. The holiday season is upon us. It's been a weird year, so this holiday season may be more important than many holidays past. And maybe someone you really want to honor this holiday is the parental figure (or figures) in your life. Whether it's biological parents, claimed parents, a mentor, whatever, here are some ideas to consider gifting to those folks who make you feel most loved.

An Aura Carver Frame*

This list is in no order, but damn I've got to say that this Aura Frame is the gift I am absolutely most excited to gift my mom. Obviously we all have incredible folks that we love and want to share thoughtful gifts with, but I can already see the joy on my moms face once her Aura Frame is set up and slideshowing through family photos. There are so many things I love about Aura Frames, particularly the Carver Frame (which I have in White Chalk) - it's surprisingly affordable for all it's capable of doing, the photos really are top notch quality on the screen (I swear they look crisper than real-life), and it's incredibly user-friendly. 

But my absolute favorite thing about the frame? I love that everyone in the family can download the app and connect to mom's frame, so we can all regularly update pictures. That way, mom (and dad) will always have the most up-to-date pictures of what's going on in our lives. It's a particularly good gift this year since it's much more difficult to travel and visit our families for the holidays. I am totally obsessed. 

A Custom Canvas Print

In the same vein of sharing photos or memories with your family, I love a custom canvas print from Smallwoods Home. For Valentine's Day, I got several made for hubby - one print for each year of marriage (a photo from a vacation we took each year!). I literally uploaded pictures taken from my phone and they printed beautifully. They also do custom text prints or have pre-made designs. 

A Down Alternative Comforter

One of my parents' favorite gifts I've given them in the past was a nice, high-quality down alternative comforter. There are truly so many places to get those now, from Target's inexpensive options to a plethora of great companies online. It's hard to find just the right quality comforter, but just make sure you're reading all the specs. And a lot of places offer 100 days to try, or something similar, to make sure you're getting the best bang for your buck!

A DNA Testing Kit

Getting a DNA testing kit for your bio-parents is also kind of like getting a gift for yourself. Find about more about yourself, your heritage, and the culture of your identity. It's a pretty cool thing if you ask me. I was able to get my mom one of the DNA kits last year around Black Friday/Cyber Monday for half-off. So if it's the price that tends to turn you away, definitely keep your eyes peeled for upcoming sales!

A Nice Gold Piece

A classic piece of gold jewelry is a gift either of your parents (or parent figures) can keep for years to come, and could become a heirloom years down the line. I particularly love Automic Gold, which totally cuts out the middleman, pays its employees living wages, and is a queer-founded company. Hubby got me a necklace from them for my birthday, and it is my favorite! They offer tons of listed options, but can custom-create just about anything your heart desires.

A Cuter-Than-Usual Pillbox*

If your parents are anything like mine, they likely take a handful of pills. I myself take a handful of pills each day. Pillboxes are often boring and totally lame. But get them a pill box that's much trendier that they can throw in their bag or on their bedside table. Port & Polish offers such cute options that are discreet and totally functional. 

An Easy-to-Install Bidet

Bidets aren't just for rich folks anymore! The TUSHY bidet attachment makes it easy for anyone to have a bidet. Their attachments start under $100 and can be attached in 10 minutes or less. Plus it's a completely sustainable option. They're produced ethically, but also save so much toilet paper (and considering the big toilet paper shortage of early 2020, we could all benefit from saving on tp). It also cleans much better than tp, and I think that's something the parentals can really appreciate. 

Better Air

If health and wellbeing weren't priorities before this year, they're likely priorities for both you and your family these days. An air purifier can clean the air of toxins, gas from cooking, bad smells, and even some viruses. In additional to an air purifier, humidifiers are actually great to open up your lungs and help you to breathe better. Both of these are definitely top notch investments for the wellbeing of those you love.

What's at the top of the list for your folks? Tell me in the comments below!