D and D Holiday Gift Guide 2011- Stocking Stuffers

 (Via Country Living Magazine)

I present to you, the next D and D Holiday Collection- Stocking Stuffers! I don't know about you, but I love investigating my stocking on Christmas morning. (I'm doubly lucky because I have a stocking at my parent's house and at my own home.) Usually we save the stockings for last, which always gives me something to look forward to. Everything in this collection is $20 and under, and there should be a little something for everyone.

 1. ThinkGeek, Han Solo in Carbonite Ice Cube Tray, $9.99

2. Fred Flare, "Tea Rex," Tea Infuser $14

3. Sephora, Chloe and Love, Chloe Miniature Duo, $12

4. Amazon.com, Envirosax Origami Shopper, $11.95

5. Lindt USA, A Touch of Sea Salt Dark Chocolate Bar, $3.50

6. Aamzon.com, Nite Ize, Meteor Light K-9 LED Dog Ball, $8.91

7. ModCloth, Hello Kitty Holiday Ornaments, $9.99

8. Barnes and Noble, Smencils Gourmet Scented Colored Pencils, $14.95

9. ModCloth, Fancy Fraiche Sink Side Tumbler, $8.99

10. Uncommon Goods, Whiskey Stones, $19.50

What is your favorite type of stocking stuffer gift?

D and D Holiday Gift Guide 2011- Stocking Stuffers

DND Holiday Gift Guide 2011: Etsy Favorites

(source)

When looking for that one of a kind gift, look no further than the handmade market-place Etsy. Etsy is a nerd's dream, and some of the most unique gifts I've gotten have been from its multitude of talented sellers.

Unfortunately, for those unfamiliar with Etsy, navigating it's pages can seem a bit overwhelming. So, I made it my mission to troll the farthest reaches of Etsy-space to bring you a curated collection of handmade gift ideas. There are options for guys, gals, pets, and nerds.

Winter Wishes

This is only a small showcase, so if you find any other talented artists, please share in the comments below!

DND Holiday Gift Guide 2011: Etsy Favorites

Dear Santa...

Winter will always have a special place in my heart. I am a HUGE fan of the holiday season, and like a moth to a flame, I am drawn to the shine, glitter, delicious hot beverages, and general goodwill. I also got engaged during winter, and there is just something about the quiet peacefulness of the crisp cold night when it finally does snow.

In addition to all of the "eat, drink, and be merry," 'tis also the season of giving. This post will be the first in a series of gift guides that just may help you find the perfect present. The following collection is from my own personal wish-list.

1. Amazon.com, Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Season 1, $34

2. American Apparel, Medium Leather Carry-all clutch in Taupe, $50

3. Books, The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern and 1Q84 by Harkuki Murakami both $16

4. Nordstroms, Tom's 'Classic' Glitter Slip On, $54

5. Fred Flare, Eskuche 33i Headphones, $70

6. Amazon.com, PS3 Dualshock 3 Wireless Controller in Candy Pink, $51

7. Shopbop.com, Gorjana Fairytale Small Earrings, $40

8. Nordstroms, Diptyque 'Baies' Scented Candle, $60

9. Urban Decay, 'Naked' Eye Palette, $48

10. Sephora, Tokidoki 'Pittura' Brush set 24 Karat Edition, $34

Question: What's on YOUR wish list this year?

Dear Santa...

Tough Mudder Recap

Back in October, Chris and I completed one of the toughest events on the planet with a small group of friends and family. (see my original Tough Mudder post here) I can truly say it was one of the most painful, cold, tiring, AMAZING tests of willpower that I have ever gone through in my entire life. To be honest, I was not as prepared as I could have been, but I was ready to suffer the consequences. But then again, I'd be lying if I said you could ever really be prepared for an event like Tough Mudder. I finished though, and completed all of the obstacles which was my ultimate goal. It took me about a week to recover, including getting rid of a nasty cough, bruises, and a cold I picked up. No Regrets!!!

Pre-TM photo with Team ManBearPig

My T-Rex arms were no match for the "Funky Monkey (bars)" First dip of the day!

Berlin Walls: The camaraderie was awesome. Had no problem getting help to get up and over!

The hills, oh my Lord of the Rings, the HILLS! (I think I'm smiling from delirium!)

"TEAM LOG!!"

The net right after the "Chernobyl Jacuzzi"- Frozen from this point on.

"Tis merely a flesh wound"

The official Tough Mudder Wintergreen, VA video.

** All photos courtesy of our good friend Rhys F. who basically ran the whole course beside us giving encouragement and taking rad photo and video. Thanks again Rhys!

Here's to Tough Mudder 2012...

Question: Have you ever done an obstacle course or a non-traditional race? (I want to do the Run For Your Lives 5K next year.)

Tough Mudder Recap