Hey Jessica, shout out to the hard work that Tyler put into the Egypt videos. I will never be able to travel to Egypt, but had the best time watching all the videos!! There were parts that were so overwhelming it brought tears to my eyes. They were just so amazing. I'd be proud as well. Thank you both for the effort you both put into your channels. It is appreciated. Sending love and light to you and your family for the holidays. ❤
I love the part about accidentally created traditions. During covid when everything was mostly shut down but partially reopening, I was pregnant and had a toddler so we were super cautious. Felt like we had to give up so many traditions so we started putting on our PJs and making hot chocolate and driving around to look at Christmas lights. In my mind it was just something to do to try to get into the spirit, but my daughter the following year told me she couldn't wait to do our tradition. I had no clue what she was talking about until she told me that. We do it every year now. At the time I was so sad that we couldn't go do all the things we normally do and she remembers it fondly 😭
I dont understand why people think it's okay to be mean to other people for no reason (in person and online). Love your content and admire the fact that you handle that hate online so well.
Why am I laying in bed crying? Cause that reminder you just gave (I have 0 kids but the sentiment applies) “I’ve made it through the toughest days of my life, and I’ll get through this.” Thanks for being our online bestie!
Our favorite zero dollar Christmas tradition that my husband and I do. On Christmas Eve, we make a giant thermos of hot chocolate. Go for a walk or drive around the neighborhood, have some Christmas tunes going and look at Christmas lights. We usually end up at the town tree and just sit there and talk about our favorite parts of the year.
I feel this so much! I hate that HATE is so openly thrown at random people. I don't Facebook anymore. It was so toxic. I also have to be careful with TikTok, because it was affecting my mental health. I choose to send love, and that is why I like yours and Tyler's videos. So thank you!
Santa asked me if we wanted an Elf on the Shelf and I told him that I was worried our dog would bark at the Elf so it probably wasn't a good fit for us :)
The two major complaints I see that I don’t understand are 1) Being mad about both PR and shopping (and decluttering) but also want reviews on new products. Or not understanding that new product reviews get the most views. Plus it’s not really product waste if you help ppl make decisions, shop wisely, and prevent buying bad products. 2) Being mad about sponsorships. Podcasts are sponsored and I feel like I don’t see as much hate about those. It’s just a commercial and pays for the content.
This is an excellent insight! I hope there will be people in their lives (or in the periphery of their lives) who will help them recognize how ugly and pointless it is to direct that kind of unkind commentary or dark energy at others. And I hope they eventually manage to feel empowered in ways that are meaningful and positive.
As a Gen X mom with kids in their 20’s, I’m so glad we missed the elf on the shelf fiasco! The holidays are already stressful enough trying to accomplish everything without adding that to have to commit to keeping up with
We’ve been doing the “Need, Want, Wear, Read” for so many years now. We’ve included something from Santa and as they get older, we’re bringing in experiences instead of things.
Hot tip- this is the best thing I ever decided to do when my kids were young and I was up until 2 AM on Christmas Eve still wrapping presents. We always have a traditional Christmas Eve dinner with family and friends and all the things. BUT! I order Chinese Food on Christmas. I have done this for the last 14 years. I didn’t have the mental capacity to do TWO big meals back to back with 6 kids. My kids all still request a big Chinese food order and I am never going back! It was the best decision. All of our friends know about this tradition and on more than one occasion they have popped over to grab a plate. Highly recommend!
I am 47 years old, an older mom of 2 daughters (4 and 6) and work full-time. I do NOT have time for Elf on the Shelf and will never start. I will make sure to create magic and memories in other ways but that little man isn't going to ruin every evening in December.
I appreciated the way Jessica handled the discussion about politics and how not every space has to include political drama because sometimes we just want a safe space where that's not going to be a part of it. That being said, I do think it's slightly dangerous to go with the philosophy that if you align with one or two hot button issues, that's the way you should vote. Of course Jessica mentioned the candidate matters, and that is so true. But for me if there is also a total deal breaker in the rhetoric of a candidate or a political party, that is also a reason not to vote for them. Like if I agreed with them on two important points, but there was something absolutely atrocious that they believed in or had espoused, that would be enough for me not to vote for them. We all have our own trigger points, and for me personally, if there is anything that ever calls intoquestion the safety/value of women or children, I just can't get behind it. There's been some predatory stuff in my past, so if a candidate ever outwardly shows or promotes aggression toward women, I just CAN'T with them. It scares me. The things someone stands for as well as what they are against really matters. I used to work with this guy who was such a scoundrel! Not honest at all. And there were people I worked with that said he was a great guy, just never trust him with anything to do with money or work. And I was like, you can't separate the two. If you are a dishonest person who takes advantage of people in business and lies to them and tries to swindle them, I don't see how all of a sudden you're a salt of the earth guy once it's 5:00 and your shift is over.
As a person who works in law enforcement, I won't ever vote for a person who has admitted on video that he or she has grabbed women by the private areas. Or if they've been found to commit sex assault by a jury. Full stop, end of story. Carry on . . .
@@womanofacertainage5892 I’m with you; thank you for your service! As an educator, woman, human being , I could never vote for that same person who is a convicted felon on 34 counts, who espoused/espouses hate on immigrants, women, poc, LGBTQ; incited an insurrection; was 2x impeached… but I rest my case.
I think you are correct in that people in general, are more moderate or progressive than they categorize themselves on daily real issues; it is the campaign that polarize issues and brought out the worst in people. Some I have to believe are just caught up in the mob mentality while others are committed to hatred of anything and anyone different from themselves because misory loves company. I appreciate your candor in your position!
Thank you for the politic portion of this video.. I agree with you, it’s definitely over saturated all over platforms. This is a place I can come where I don’t have to hear it, and I’m appreciative for it!
Coming from a mom with older kids, mine asked for elf on the shelf every year. I never did it. They survived lol. That is way too much mental burden for this time of year for me.
Jess….i just love you!🎉❤ I love your take on politics. Whenever we have had friends over for dinner…we keep a shot glass and a horrible whiskey on the table in plain sight. Anyone that talks politics or religion….shot. 😅😊
A cute tradition I just saw recently was placing a pinecone in a bowl, letting the child water it and then when goes to bed, it grew into a fully decorated tree. Wish I thought of that when my daughter was a child.
I admire your values and mindset so much, Jessica. I'm sending you a lot of love, good health, and happiness this New Year 🥰 Enjoy the holiday season!!
Now that our son is in his own apartment, he hosts Christmas. We go over Christmas Eve, eat a meal together & spend the night. Open presents on Christmas morning & my husband makes blueberry pancakes & then we head home early afternoon. So relaxing and wonderful!
We have had the same simple christmas dinner for 30 years. And no one wants to change anything. Turkey, stuffing in the bird, mashed potatoes, my special green bean casserole not made with cream of mushroom soup, cranberry sauce from a can, and eclaire dessert. We also open presents one at a time.
Christmas tradition idea - decorate an ornament ball you get from the craft store and each person puts wishes or hopes on little pieces of paper that go into the ornament ball. Put the year on the outside of the ornament. Eventually you’ll have enough ornaments to make a Christmas future tree (Christmas carol vibes) and someday your kids can open them and read theirs and your wishes/hopes from decades ago ❤️
@ oh yay! I’m so glad you like the idea, thanks for commenting to tell me ❤️ I really enjoy doing it and can’t wait to have a tree full of them one day lol.
What an incredible idea! I’m 57 with a 28-year old son who just got married this year, and I’m totally going to start this tradition in our family … thank you! ❤
@@Karen-DeMars oh yay!!! Thank you for taking the time to comment and tell me. I love that you’re excited to implement it with your family, that brings me so much joy ❤️ happy holidays!!
The Egypt videos are done SO SO well. I cried hysterically at the sphinx/ pyramid video. My grandmother was born and raised in Egypt so it just hit different
You are making a lot of sense. The negativity is out of control everywhere! I try to be as positive as possible. It's not always easy, but it's the right thing to do. Hang in there, Jessica!
I have a 5 and 3 year old, and my kindergartener asked the other day about the elf coming to our house😅 I also do not ever want to do it and told her that was so odd that an elf was in her friends house 🤣🤣🤣
We moved from a lot of gifts to several experiences. For example, they got four gifts each, but we invested in season tickets to a local semi-pro baseball team, zoo or CoSi memberships, a stay at Great Wolf Lodge and Waterpark (indoor) for after cmas in january or february to offset the winter blahs. We found investing in experiences as a family was so much more meaningful and fun!
Family tradition since I was basically born is that we get a new ornament each year that represents something from that year. It could be an avocado toast, a dog or a tiny house on wheels... Just depends what happened that year! 🎉🎉
When my daughter was in Kindergarten she wanted to know why we didn't have an elf that came to visit our house. I told her that I heard that the naughty elf only came to visit naughty children and since she was so well behaved we didn't have one. Surprisingly it worked because all the children in her class that were talking about the elf just happened to be the ones that were the naughtiest in her class 🤣
The way this could’ve backfired hahahahahha love the gamble!!! I refuse to do elf on a shelf too. Sooooo much work. At one of my daughter’s preschool they did it there. She didn’t ask us about why we didn’t have one at home. So thankful for that. If she ever does ask I’m stealing all these ideas everyone has lol dog, naughty kiddos, etc.
Lol - the shade! 😂 I picture you fielding angry phone calls from the moms of all the “naughty” kids … 😬 But I agree with the comment above - a brave gamble that fortunately paid off! 😄
We have a few Christmas traditions. Some grew organically over the years, like decorating cut-out cookies on the eve but the one I chose to start when my son (who's now in his 20s) was born was to buy one or two really special ornaments every year, which he opens on Christmas Eve and hangs on the tree. They will be his to take with him when he settles into his own household but in the meantime, it's so nostalgic to unwrap and hang them every year.
Thank you for these videos. I watch nearly every one of your videos (time is limited these days!) but the ones where you sit and chat to us are my very favorite. I've been watching you since you were sitting on your bedroom floor talking about ELF. I haven't worn makeup in nearly a decade, but I am SO glad I stuck around because of YOU not just your content. You are a light of authenticity on a platform with increasingly less-real content. Thanks for being you and sharing with us all!
I love that phrase you said, “Shifted back into alignment.” I don’t have kids but I felt that’s what my dogs did for me. Show me joy and love in times of hardships.
Thank you! I like this style of videos from you ❤ And I agree, Tyler did an awesome job with the Egypt videos. I haven’t seen all of them but they’re great!
I was originally supposed to see Wicked in 2013 in LA for my senior band trip and ended up missing it because I got diagnosed with MS and was stuck in the hospital. I really didn’t know much about it, but I always knew that I loved the wizard of oz. So I promised myself that I wouldn’t spoil it and would see it live one day. Now that the movie is out I have been avoiding any and all spoilers beyond part 1 and I am IN LOVE. My boyfriend and I both left the theater crying (he is not a musical theater guy at all). I can’t wait to watch it again and to find out what happens!
Elf on the shelf is a bit of work but it definitely doesn’t have to be a big deal ! We just move our elf different places every day , sometimes we’ll throw a letter from the elf in or a candy or something. We definitely don’t tho the elaborate tricks or gifts though . The kids love just finding her in a different spot and fully believe in the magic ! But there has been the 3am wake up of Ope need to move the elf 😂
Love your videos, thank you! We don’t celebrate Christmas but one tradition I loved as a kid, and we do now for our nephews & nieces is a treasure hunt when we celebrate wedding anniversaries. The couple gets gifts, and the kids have a treasure hunt with clues to look in different places around the home for the next clue….the last spot there’s a little gift or loot bag with treats/toys. They almost love the game more than the price at the end haha. We usually just do about 7 or 8 clues depending on their age. And it’s fun for the rest of the family to watch their excitement :)
I think the issue with the IG post is that it seemed like the clickbait style of video. A video someone would make for likes. That is not your usual style. If you would have posted a video saying what you had heard and that you were concerned for yourself and your viewers, there would have been a different response to the video. I think that’s what people meant by the style.
This is an outstanding blog. I totally needed this Jessica. I’m a bit older than you. My kids are in college. But I miss those snuggle babies. Thank you for sharing your life with us for so many years. I look forward to these videos so much. And I love your advice to just be ourselves and don’t worry about those who want to be mean there’s no reason for it.
OMG I was listening to this while getting ready for bed and heard my name! Love your channel and so excited to see the basement tour soon! Also, Tyler’s Egypt videos were amazing!
Magnatiles, best toy my six year old grandson ever got. We bought them for him when he was two and added to them over the years. Not only does he build models with them but he uses them lots with other toys. The other day he had his tub of sea creatures out and made boats with the magnatiles. So open ended. 💙🎄
Kylie (Kiki Chanel) actually ordered a mold test! It was mold! Also, we don’t do elf on the shelf. My kids asked why we don’t have an elf and I told them I told Santa that the elf wasn’t allowed at my house because he’s messy 😂🤷🏻♀️
I can’t even believe all of the social media hate I saw over this past election. Most of my family agree on politics but we have some that DO NOT. After some heated words a few years ago we all decided our love for each other outweighed our differences and we basically agreed to disagree and not speak about it. Literally anything even close to being political isn’t brought up at family gatherings. I wish other families could do this. It’s not worth losing our loved ones and relationships over. One of the things I was very thankful for this Thanksgiving.
We used to always go to my in laws on Xmas day but because of our schedules I felt like we were so busy and rushed and I hated it. So now we stay home. I make food. We stay in our pj's and play with our toys and watch Xmas movies. We also always go see Xmas lights. There's a few big drive thru displays so we wear our pj's and get hot chocolate and a treat and go! We listen to Christmas music in the car and its so much fun!
One of our tradition is that once a week during the year my husband and I will write a little note on a “post it” and we put it in a jar. We also ask friends and family who visit us at our house to do the same. Christmas Eve we empty the jar and read the comments which are signed and dated. It brings back memories, we love it!
I’ve never loved you more than to hear you talk about the “Elf”. ❤ My daughter is grown now, but there was nothing more terrifying than waking up to realize you forgot to move that stupid little thing. 😂
So glad you talked about the negative comment thing! Even the most wholesome content has someone in the comments finding something to criticize about. Loved this video!
YES. It’s an exhausting time period for communication. This super resonated with me and it does feel negative. I can’t wait for the pendulum to swing the other way lol. Appreciate you sharing that you feel that way too ❤️
As a momma of 5 who is currently in nursing school and working who gets up at midnight-3 am every night of December to elf around 😄….you are 100 percent right!!! The elf is soooo much work!! There are many tired nights I regret ever starting the tradition but seeing the excitement and joy it brings my little ones does make it worth it
Jess this makeup look and color on you is perfection! Been following you for years and I always come back to your content because it just feels so comforting and real. Like home 🏡 💛 ps do you like the merit moisturizer/serum? Does it improve your makeup application?
I do not care if people think it’s dramatic to unfriend people because of political differences. In todays world politics are basic morals and if they don’t align I do not want you in my life. There is so much hate and violence that that side encourages and promotes and it’s gross and disgusting and I truly worry for anyone with kids who are going to be affected by their choices in who they decided to vote for. It’s not just politics it’s real fucking life.
10:50 my husband was just moments ago noticing this about me! He says I'm very careful with my words so they aren't misconstrued (I'm a teacher) and I said YES AND IT MAKES ME TIRED 😅
I’m an officer on the Bible study group on Fort Knox, Ky. With programs and events happening the stress is real. I’ve been praying longer everyday just so i can get it all done. Funny how spending extra prayer time on your busiest days helps.
One of our "traditions" is putting out paper bags with candles on the driveway Christmas Eve to light the way for Jesus. I'm currently 53 and my 86 year old father and I do it every year. It is so beautiful and I look forward to it every year.
I told my husband about Tyler’s Egypt video series so we watched them all. I already complimented Tyler on his channel, but the videos are so well done, the photography was beautiful, the narration and knowledge relayed is wonderful. My husband loved them so much he asked everyday if the Indiana couple had a new video posted.
I am so proud of your answer about politics because I agree that it does separate people some are more pationate than others. As well as people can be mean.
Our traditions - we always make breakfast casserole for Christmas morning, and “bumbles” (a family recipe version of spaetzle with sauerkraut) for Christmas Eve. And my husband and I have started hosting an open house Christmas party a couple weeks before Christmas. Gives us a chance to see everyone in the holiday season, without having the make the rounds in Christmas itself or trying to coordinate six different schedules on the same day. Allows everyone in our families to have their own Christmas Day traditions at home
i know exactly what you mean about the negative stuff. especially home improvement videos holy cow ALL the comments are just people picking their house to shreds. like damn if you don’t like it then don’t live there.
We have a whole family Christmas Eve breakfast and Christmas morning we make french crepes Grandparents also do a stocking night +sleepover for grandkids first weekend of Dec (Family Norwegian tradition)
It sucks that people are so mean online. Also, if something looks like it might have mold, even if I'm not sure it is mold, I absolutely will not put it on my skin or in my body.
I feel the EXACT same about the elf on the shelf. I don’t need one more ball to juggle this month. I’m doing the best I can keeping the wheels on the bus 😅
We do the same thing at Christmas. That’s what Santa gives him. Want, need, wear, read. Mom and dad claim the bigger purchases bc we saw a situation where a kid got a drivable jeep from Santa but other kids got clothes or smaller items.
Wicked did have a standing production in Chicago for a while, so it may have not been for the tour or Broadway, but for the standing Chicago production. My aunt's niece by marriage was in the ensemble and an understudy/standby for Elphaba in Chicago, then was Elphaba on tour, and eventually on Broadway (Vicki Noon). She fell in love with and married the music director for the stage show (Dom Amendum), and he was then involved with the movie production as the Music Supervisor. They lived in London for a year while he worked on the movie. Vicki had a credited bit part in the movie as well! (So when you go see it, watch the credits for them!) When we saw Vicki in the show on tour, she took us backstage and showed us her Act 2 dress, which is insanely heavy! I love musical theater although I've never been part of it as a performer or production person. Too shy and too lacking in talent! 😂
My favorite tradition we used to have a Christmas tree in my room and “Santa” would leave one small gift under it (as I got older it was left outside the door). I could open this before coming downstairs in the morning. Usually it was something I could play with quietly a book, a doll and as I got older sometimes a magazine or puzzle book. Credit to my mom because she kept this up well into my sister and i’s 20’s. The idea was something to keep us distracted when we were being kids on Christmas who couldn’t sleep.
Our Christmas tradition each year is to have one of our boys read the Christmas story from the Bible every Christmas Eve. We all gather in the living room, our 2 boys, my husband, and myself with our fur babies . The Christmas tree lit, the TV off, and just peace and quiet. Soaking in all these precious moments with my babies that are not so small anymore
So glad to hear someone else mention the exhaustion!!! The only social media I use is TH-cam to watch videos and my goodness.... Make a comment with an opinion someone doesn't agree with and GET WRECKED by the team bullies. It's wild. People can be so rude for absolutely no reason.
one tradition we always do around christmas is cookie bake! my husband's family all get together at my in laws house and bake hundreds of cookies. it's amazing. my mom started having us do a gingerbread house competition about 10 years ago! she buys silly gingerbread house making kits and lots of extra candy from walmart and then we partner up and build them with no rules. sometimes we follow the kit, other times people have cut pieces and built something totally funny and new. then my parents "judge" and give each team an award like "most creative", "most aethetically pleasing", "most festive", etc.
When our kids were little, the Christmas tradition was cozy clothes, preferably jammies, and we used to lay a blanket on the floor and eat our Christmas dinner together while watching Christmas movies. And because we did the ham and turkey, etc., for Thanksgiving, we would do seafood: shrimp scampi, crab legs, shrimp cocktail, etc. It was just fun and cozy. Oh, and making popcorn and cranberry strings!
Elf on a shelf for me and my granddaughter was a blast. My granddaughter would ask him/ her a question and I would respond using my left hand so she wouldn't know it was me. But my granddaughter loved it and I loved seeing her so happy. I think it's great... you should really try it.
Holiday tradition: when I was little, my dad would read ¨The Night Before Christmas" to us before bed on Christmas Eve. He would be super over the top and use silly voices. We would then put out our cookies and milk for Santa and go to bed. My father is gone now, but I still remember those times with happiness.
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Hey Jessica, shout out to the hard work that Tyler put into the Egypt videos. I will never be able to travel to Egypt, but had the best time watching all the videos!! There were parts that were so overwhelming it brought tears to my eyes. They were just so amazing. I'd be proud as well. Thank you both for the effort you both put into your channels. It is appreciated. Sending love and light to you and your family for the holidays. ❤
I love the part about accidentally created traditions. During covid when everything was mostly shut down but partially reopening, I was pregnant and had a toddler so we were super cautious. Felt like we had to give up so many traditions so we started putting on our PJs and making hot chocolate and driving around to look at Christmas lights. In my mind it was just something to do to try to get into the spirit, but my daughter the following year told me she couldn't wait to do our tradition. I had no clue what she was talking about until she told me that. We do it every year now. At the time I was so sad that we couldn't go do all the things we normally do and she remembers it fondly 😭
I dont understand why people think it's okay to be mean to other people for no reason (in person and online). Love your content and admire the fact that you handle that hate online so well.
I agree with you I think sometimes people do this because they are not showing their face
I agree even in the work world 😢
Jessica: "Took him a long time to edit" ... Me: "Not as long as the 'Yurt' videos!" 😂 (Love you, Tyler!)
Why am I laying in bed crying? Cause that reminder you just gave (I have 0 kids but the sentiment applies) “I’ve made it through the toughest days of my life, and I’ll get through this.” Thanks for being our online bestie!
Our favorite zero dollar Christmas tradition that my husband and I do. On Christmas Eve, we make a giant thermos of hot chocolate. Go for a walk or drive around the neighborhood, have some Christmas tunes going and look at Christmas lights. We usually end up at the town tree and just sit there and talk about our favorite parts of the year.
I love this! What a beautiful tradition ❤️
I feel this so much! I hate that HATE is so openly thrown at random people. I don't Facebook anymore. It was so toxic. I also have to be careful with TikTok, because it was affecting my mental health. I choose to send love, and that is why I like yours and Tyler's videos. So thank you!
I had to pause when you said "I've had kids for 7 years now" because I remember when you didn't.....time is just moving insanely fast!
Same! I remember her first pregnancy and when Genevieve was born and she said almost 7 years and I was like "....WHAT?!" 😂
Santa asked me if we wanted an Elf on the Shelf and I told him that I was worried our dog would bark at the Elf so it probably wasn't a good fit for us :)
Genius!
Very wise!
The two major complaints I see that I don’t understand are 1) Being mad about both PR and shopping (and decluttering) but also want reviews on new products. Or not understanding that new product reviews get the most views. Plus it’s not really product waste if you help ppl make decisions, shop wisely, and prevent buying bad products. 2) Being mad about sponsorships. Podcasts are sponsored and I feel like I don’t see as much hate about those. It’s just a commercial and pays for the content.
When so many people feel like they have no power, being negative is a cheap form of power they can co-opt
This is an excellent insight! I hope there will be people in their lives (or in the periphery of their lives) who will help them recognize how ugly and pointless it is to direct that kind of unkind commentary or dark energy at others. And I hope they eventually manage to feel empowered in ways that are meaningful and positive.
As a Gen X mom with kids in their 20’s, I’m so glad we missed the elf on the shelf fiasco! The holidays are already stressful enough trying to accomplish everything without adding that to have to commit to keeping up with
Gen X'er here 👋🏽 in full agreement with you! Ain't nobody got time for that!!! It reminds me of those Giga Pets we had when we were kids!😩
We pray for the people who send us Christmas cards at dinner. We just pick one each night and it is such a sweet little tradition.
I write a postcard to each person after the new year. I let them know that I prayed for them that day.
Your perspective on everything is so refreshing. Thank you for your authentic and positive influence online! ❤️
We’ve been doing the “Need, Want, Wear, Read” for so many years now. We’ve included something from Santa and as they get older, we’re bringing in experiences instead of things.
Hot tip- this is the best thing I ever decided to do when my kids were young and I was up until 2 AM on Christmas Eve still wrapping presents. We always have a traditional Christmas Eve dinner with family and friends and all the things. BUT! I order Chinese Food on Christmas. I have done this for the last 14 years. I didn’t have the mental capacity to do TWO big meals back to back with 6 kids. My kids all still request a big Chinese food order and I am never going back! It was the best decision. All of our friends know about this tradition and on more than one occasion they have popped over to grab a plate. Highly recommend!
I am 47 years old, an older mom of 2 daughters (4 and 6) and work full-time. I do NOT have time for Elf on the Shelf and will never start. I will make sure to create magic and memories in other ways but that little man isn't going to ruin every evening in December.
I appreciated the way Jessica handled the discussion about politics and how not every space has to include political drama because sometimes we just want a safe space where that's not going to be a part of it. That being said, I do think it's slightly dangerous to go with the philosophy that if you align with one or two hot button issues, that's the way you should vote. Of course Jessica mentioned the candidate matters, and that is so true. But for me if there is also a total deal breaker in the rhetoric of a candidate or a political party, that is also a reason not to vote for them. Like if I agreed with them on two important points, but there was something absolutely atrocious that they believed in or had espoused, that would be enough for me not to vote for them. We all have our own trigger points, and for me personally, if there is anything that ever calls intoquestion the safety/value of women or children, I just can't get behind it. There's been some predatory stuff in my past, so if a candidate ever outwardly shows or promotes aggression toward women, I just CAN'T with them. It scares me. The things someone stands for as well as what they are against really matters. I used to work with this guy who was such a scoundrel! Not honest at all. And there were people I worked with that said he was a great guy, just never trust him with anything to do with money or work. And I was like, you can't separate the two. If you are a dishonest person who takes advantage of people in business and lies to them and tries to swindle them, I don't see how all of a sudden you're a salt of the earth guy once it's 5:00 and your shift is over.
Well said without having to name names… vote your values! 🗳
As a person who works in law enforcement, I won't ever vote for a person who has admitted on video that he or she has grabbed women by the private areas. Or if they've been found to commit sex assault by a jury. Full stop, end of story. Carry on . . .
@@womanofacertainage5892 I’m with you; thank you for your service! As an educator, woman, human being , I could never vote for that same person who is a convicted felon on 34 counts, who espoused/espouses hate on immigrants, women, poc, LGBTQ; incited an insurrection; was 2x impeached… but I rest my case.
You nailed that explanation. I could not have explained better myself!
THIS!!
I think you are correct in that people in general, are more moderate or progressive than they categorize themselves on daily real issues; it is the campaign that polarize issues and brought out the worst in people. Some I have to believe are just caught up in the mob mentality while others are committed to hatred of anything and anyone different from themselves because misory loves company. I appreciate your candor in your position!
I use Rakuten because you suggested it a long time ago and I still love it!! I love the chatty videos mixed in with the shopping content.
I can't stand the toxic drama that is so prevalent online🥺
Thank you for the politic portion of this video.. I agree with you, it’s definitely over saturated all over platforms. This is a place I can come where I don’t have to hear it, and I’m appreciative for it!
Coming from a mom with older kids, mine asked for elf on the shelf every year. I never did it. They survived lol. That is way too much mental burden for this time of year for me.
Totally agree about Elf on the Shelf. Do NOT ever want to start that
Jess….i just love you!🎉❤ I love your take on politics. Whenever we have had friends over for dinner…we keep a shot glass and a horrible whiskey on the table in plain sight. Anyone that talks politics or religion….shot. 😅😊
I’d be wasted real quick
😂😂😂 this is amazing! Great idea!
I don't have kids, but Elf on the Shelf is the creepiest thing ever 😅
A cute tradition I just saw recently was placing a pinecone in a bowl, letting the child water it and then when goes to bed, it grew into a fully decorated tree. Wish I thought of that when my daughter was a child.
I admire your values and mindset so much, Jessica. I'm sending you a lot of love, good health, and happiness this New Year 🥰 Enjoy the holiday season!!
Now that our son is in his own apartment, he hosts Christmas. We go over Christmas Eve, eat a meal together & spend the night. Open presents on Christmas morning & my husband makes blueberry pancakes & then we head home early afternoon. So relaxing and wonderful!
i loved this video, jess. you have such a refreshing and stable (is that the right word??) mindset. thank you so much for sharing!!!! 🩷
I don't get the Elf on a Shelf thing either. How exhausting that would be! When I was little ours just was in the Xmas tree. I'm 62
We have had the same simple christmas dinner for 30 years. And no one wants to change anything. Turkey, stuffing in the bird, mashed potatoes, my special green bean casserole not made with cream of mushroom soup, cranberry sauce from a can, and eclaire dessert. We also open presents one at a time.
And people on social media like to be offended by everything. It is so annoying. Most people need to lose the internet.
“ … lose the Internet.” That phrasing just cracked me up. Love it! 👏
Christmas tradition idea - decorate an ornament ball you get from the craft store and each person puts wishes or hopes on little pieces of paper that go into the ornament ball. Put the year on the outside of the ornament. Eventually you’ll have enough ornaments to make a Christmas future tree (Christmas carol vibes) and someday your kids can open them and read theirs and your wishes/hopes from decades ago ❤️
Love this! Going to use it!
@ oh yay! I’m so glad you like the idea, thanks for commenting to tell me ❤️ I really enjoy doing it and can’t wait to have a tree full of them one day lol.
What an incredible idea! I’m 57 with a 28-year old son who just got married this year, and I’m totally going to start this tradition in our family … thank you! ❤
I LOVE this so much. Going to Hobby Lobby and starting this immediately.
@@Karen-DeMars oh yay!!! Thank you for taking the time to comment and tell me. I love that you’re excited to implement it with your family, that brings me so much joy ❤️ happy holidays!!
My family used to drive around on Christmas Eve looking at Christmas lights in nearby neighborhoods. I always looked forward to that every year!
The Egypt videos are done SO SO well. I cried hysterically at the sphinx/ pyramid video. My grandmother was born and raised in Egypt so it just hit different
You are making a lot of sense. The negativity is out of control everywhere! I try to be as positive as possible. It's not always easy, but it's the right thing to do.
Hang in there, Jessica!
I have a 5 and 3 year old, and my kindergartener asked the other day about the elf coming to our house😅 I also do not ever want to do it and told her that was so odd that an elf was in her friends house 🤣🤣🤣
We moved from a lot of gifts to several experiences. For example, they got four gifts each, but we invested in season tickets to a local semi-pro baseball team, zoo or CoSi memberships, a stay at Great Wolf Lodge and Waterpark (indoor) for after cmas in january or february to offset the winter blahs. We found investing in experiences as a family was so much more meaningful and fun!
Family tradition since I was basically born is that we get a new ornament each year that represents something from that year. It could be an avocado toast, a dog or a tiny house on wheels... Just depends what happened that year! 🎉🎉
When my daughter was in Kindergarten she wanted to know why we didn't have an elf that came to visit our house. I told her that I heard that the naughty elf only came to visit naughty children and since she was so well behaved we didn't have one. Surprisingly it worked because all the children in her class that were talking about the elf just happened to be the ones that were the naughtiest in her class 🤣
The way this could’ve backfired hahahahahha love the gamble!!!
I refuse to do elf on a shelf too. Sooooo much work. At one of my daughter’s preschool they did it there. She didn’t ask us about why we didn’t have one at home. So thankful for that.
If she ever does ask I’m stealing all these ideas everyone has lol dog, naughty kiddos, etc.
Lol - the shade! 😂 I picture you fielding angry phone calls from the moms of all the “naughty” kids … 😬 But I agree with the comment above - a brave gamble that fortunately paid off! 😄
We have a few Christmas traditions. Some grew organically over the years, like decorating cut-out cookies on the eve but the one I chose to start when my son (who's now in his 20s) was born was to buy one or two really special ornaments every year, which he opens on Christmas Eve and hangs on the tree. They will be his to take with him when he settles into his own household but in the meantime, it's so nostalgic to unwrap and hang them every year.
Thank you for these videos. I watch nearly every one of your videos (time is limited these days!) but the ones where you sit and chat to us are my very favorite. I've been watching you since you were sitting on your bedroom floor talking about ELF. I haven't worn makeup in nearly a decade, but I am SO glad I stuck around because of YOU not just your content. You are a light of authenticity on a platform with increasingly less-real content. Thanks for being you and sharing with us all!
I love that phrase you said, “Shifted back into alignment.” I don’t have kids but I felt that’s what my dogs did for me. Show me joy and love in times of hardships.
GIRL! I am WITH YOU with Elf on the Shelf! I’m glad I’m not alone 😂
Thank you! I like this style of videos from you ❤ And I agree, Tyler did an awesome job with the Egypt videos. I haven’t seen all of them but they’re great!
I was originally supposed to see Wicked in 2013 in LA for my senior band trip and ended up missing it because I got diagnosed with MS and was stuck in the hospital. I really didn’t know much about it, but I always knew that I loved the wizard of oz. So I promised myself that I wouldn’t spoil it and would see it live one day. Now that the movie is out I have been avoiding any and all spoilers beyond part 1 and I am IN LOVE. My boyfriend and I both left the theater crying (he is not a musical theater guy at all). I can’t wait to watch it again and to find out what happens!
Elf on the shelf is a bit of work but it definitely doesn’t have to be a big deal ! We just move our elf different places every day , sometimes we’ll throw a letter from the elf in or a candy or something. We definitely don’t tho the elaborate tricks or gifts though . The kids love just finding her in a different spot and fully believe in the magic ! But there has been the 3am wake up of Ope need to move the elf 😂
🌛🌛🌛
My favorite Christmas movie is Elf! Makes me so happy!
Love you girl
Love your videos, thank you! We don’t celebrate Christmas but one tradition I loved as a kid, and we do now for our nephews & nieces is a treasure hunt when we celebrate wedding anniversaries. The couple gets gifts, and the kids have a treasure hunt with clues to look in different places around the home for the next clue….the last spot there’s a little gift or loot bag with treats/toys. They almost love the game more than the price at the end haha. We usually just do about 7 or 8 clues depending on their age. And it’s fun for the rest of the family to watch their excitement :)
What a clever idea - and a lovely tradition! 💕
Love the chatty videos! Tyler’s Egypt videos were literal travel channel quality! Been loving Vlogmas so far with you guys too!
🌛🌛🌛The Muppet’s Christmas Carol is the best. Christmas movie ever!! As an English Teacher how can you go wrong when Gonzo plays Charles Dickens!
I think the issue with the IG post is that it seemed like the clickbait style of video. A video someone would make for likes. That is not your usual style. If you would have posted a video saying what you had heard and that you were concerned for yourself and your viewers, there would have been a different response to the video. I think that’s what people meant by the style.
The color of that sweater is so gorgeous.
I love it too!!
This color of pink is gorgeous on you!!!!!
thank you so much!!
I just have to say Tylers Egypt videos were so good! Send them to PBS, he could honestly be the next Rick Steves!
This is an outstanding blog. I totally needed this Jessica. I’m a bit older than you. My kids are in college. But I miss those snuggle babies. Thank you for sharing your life with us for so many years. I look forward to these videos so much. And I love your advice to just be ourselves and don’t worry about those who want to be mean there’s no reason for it.
OMG I was listening to this while getting ready for bed and heard my name! Love your channel and so excited to see the basement tour soon! Also, Tyler’s Egypt videos were amazing!
Magnatiles, best toy my six year old grandson ever got. We bought them for him when he was two and added to them over the years. Not only does he build models with them but he uses them lots with other toys. The other day he had his tub of sea creatures out and made boats with the magnatiles. So open ended. 💙🎄
Kylie (Kiki Chanel) actually ordered a mold test! It was mold! Also, we don’t do elf on the shelf. My kids asked why we don’t have an elf and I told them I told Santa that the elf wasn’t allowed at my house because he’s messy 😂🤷🏻♀️
The Egypt videos are incredible! I haven’t watched them all yet but so amazing!
I can’t even believe all of the social media hate I saw over this past election. Most of my family agree on politics but we have some that DO NOT. After some heated words a few years ago we all decided our love for each other outweighed our differences and we basically agreed to disagree and not speak about it. Literally anything even close to being political isn’t brought up at family gatherings. I wish other families could do this. It’s not worth losing our loved ones and relationships over. One of the things I was very thankful for this Thanksgiving.
We used to always go to my in laws on Xmas day but because of our schedules I felt like we were so busy and rushed and I hated it. So now we stay home. I make food. We stay in our pj's and play with our toys and watch Xmas movies. We also always go see Xmas lights. There's a few big drive thru displays so we wear our pj's and get hot chocolate and a treat and go! We listen to Christmas music in the car and its so much fun!
You look great in that hot pink!
Wishing you and your family a wonderful Christmas!
I’m Muslim and My family never did traditions but I had my son this year and I’d like to do something for Ramadan and Eid next year 😊
One of our tradition is that once a week during the year my husband and I will write a little note on a “post it” and we put it in a jar. We also ask friends and family who visit us at our house to do the same. Christmas Eve we empty the jar and read the comments which are signed and dated. It brings back memories, we love it!
I’ve never loved you more than to hear you talk about the “Elf”. ❤ My daughter is grown now, but there was nothing more terrifying than waking up to realize you forgot to move that stupid little thing. 😂
So glad you talked about the negative comment thing! Even the most wholesome content has someone in the comments finding something to criticize about. Loved this video!
YES. It’s an exhausting time period for communication. This super resonated with me and it does feel negative. I can’t wait for the pendulum to swing the other way lol. Appreciate you sharing that you feel that way too ❤️
Also the fact that you’ve seen the Carrie Diaries and referenced it made me so happy 😂❤ I loved that show
I’m 8 months pregnant with a baby I wasn’t sure if ever have, and I needed that pep talk too. ♥️
As a momma of 5 who is currently in nursing school and working who gets up at midnight-3 am every night of December to elf around 😄….you are 100 percent right!!! The elf is soooo much work!! There are many tired nights I regret ever starting the tradition but seeing the excitement and joy it brings my little ones does make it worth it
Jess this makeup look and color on you is perfection! Been following you for years and I always come back to your content because it just feels so comforting and real. Like home 🏡 💛 ps do you like the merit moisturizer/serum? Does it improve your makeup application?
I do not care if people think it’s dramatic to unfriend people because of political differences. In todays world politics are basic morals and if they don’t align I do not want you in my life. There is so much hate and violence that that side encourages and promotes and it’s gross and disgusting and I truly worry for anyone with kids who are going to be affected by their choices in who they decided to vote for. It’s not just politics it’s real fucking life.
We go look at Christmas lights every Christmas Eve. We usually go to Wendy's and get a frosty or coffee and hot chocolate for the kids.
10:50 my husband was just moments ago noticing this about me! He says I'm very careful with my words so they aren't misconstrued (I'm a teacher) and I said YES AND IT MAKES ME TIRED 😅
Lol - yes; I’m so with you … NOT triggering petty people is exhausting!
😓😢😴
I’m an officer on the Bible study group on Fort Knox, Ky. With programs and events happening the stress is real. I’ve been praying longer everyday just so i can get it all done. Funny how spending extra prayer time on your busiest days helps.
One of our "traditions" is putting out paper bags with candles on the driveway Christmas Eve to light the way for Jesus. I'm currently 53 and my 86 year old father and I do it every year. It is so beautiful and I look forward to it every year.
I told my husband about Tyler’s Egypt video series so we watched them all. I already complimented Tyler on his channel, but the videos are so well done, the photography was beautiful, the narration and knowledge relayed is wonderful. My husband loved them so much he asked everyday if the Indiana couple had a new video posted.
I am so proud of your answer about politics because I agree that it does separate people some are more pationate than others. As well as people can be mean.
Our traditions - we always make breakfast casserole for Christmas morning, and “bumbles” (a family recipe version of spaetzle with sauerkraut) for Christmas Eve. And my husband and I have started hosting an open house Christmas party a couple weeks before Christmas. Gives us a chance to see everyone in the holiday season, without having the make the rounds in Christmas itself or trying to coordinate six different schedules on the same day. Allows everyone in our families to have their own Christmas Day traditions at home
i know exactly what you mean about the negative stuff. especially home improvement videos holy cow ALL the comments are just people picking their house to shreds. like damn if you don’t like it then don’t live there.
Sometimes you just need a Chatty Jessica video to brighten your day :)
We have a whole family Christmas Eve breakfast and Christmas morning we make french crepes
Grandparents also do a stocking night +sleepover for grandkids first weekend of Dec
(Family Norwegian tradition)
It sucks that people are so mean online. Also, if something looks like it might have mold, even if I'm not sure it is mold, I absolutely will not put it on my skin or in my body.
I feel the EXACT same about the elf on the shelf. I don’t need one more ball to juggle this month. I’m doing the best I can keeping the wheels on the bus 😅
The impression of a critical person tearing up the hypothetical lab analysis made me literally laugh out loud 🤣 That is exactly how some people behave
I have a sibling that will not stop talking politics and it’s so hard to keep having those conversations. I completely agree with your stance.
We do the same thing at Christmas. That’s what Santa gives him. Want, need, wear, read. Mom and dad claim the bigger purchases bc we saw a situation where a kid got a drivable jeep from Santa but other kids got clothes or smaller items.
Wicked did have a standing production in Chicago for a while, so it may have not been for the tour or Broadway, but for the standing Chicago production. My aunt's niece by marriage was in the ensemble and an understudy/standby for Elphaba in Chicago, then was Elphaba on tour, and eventually on Broadway (Vicki Noon). She fell in love with and married the music director for the stage show (Dom Amendum), and he was then involved with the movie production as the Music Supervisor. They lived in London for a year while he worked on the movie. Vicki had a credited bit part in the movie as well! (So when you go see it, watch the credits for them!) When we saw Vicki in the show on tour, she took us backstage and showed us her Act 2 dress, which is insanely heavy! I love musical theater although I've never been part of it as a performer or production person. Too shy and too lacking in talent! 😂
My favorite tradition we used to have a Christmas tree in my room and “Santa” would leave one small gift under it (as I got older it was left outside the door). I could open this before coming downstairs in the morning. Usually it was something I could play with quietly a book, a doll and as I got older sometimes a magazine or puzzle book. Credit to my mom because she kept this up well into my sister and i’s 20’s. The idea was something to keep us distracted when we were being kids on Christmas who couldn’t sleep.
Excellent yt channel. Love how you answered the questions.
Our Christmas tradition each year is to have one of our boys read the Christmas story from the Bible every Christmas Eve. We all gather in the living room, our 2 boys, my husband, and myself with our fur babies . The Christmas tree lit, the TV off, and just peace and quiet. Soaking in all these precious moments with my babies that are not so small anymore
So glad to hear someone else mention the exhaustion!!! The only social media I use is TH-cam to watch videos and my goodness.... Make a comment with an opinion someone doesn't agree with and GET WRECKED by the team bullies. It's wild. People can be so rude for absolutely no reason.
I agree. Tyler did an awesome job on his Egypt docu-series. He is such a pro! You two make a lovely couple and have a beautiful family.
one tradition we always do around christmas is cookie bake! my husband's family all get together at my in laws house and bake hundreds of cookies. it's amazing.
my mom started having us do a gingerbread house competition about 10 years ago! she buys silly gingerbread house making kits and lots of extra candy from walmart and then we partner up and build them with no rules. sometimes we follow the kit, other times people have cut pieces and built something totally funny and new. then my parents "judge" and give each team an award like "most creative", "most aethetically pleasing", "most festive", etc.
When our kids were little, the Christmas tradition was cozy clothes, preferably jammies, and we used to lay a blanket on the floor and eat our Christmas dinner together while watching Christmas movies. And because we did the ham and turkey, etc., for Thanksgiving, we would do seafood: shrimp scampi, crab legs, shrimp cocktail, etc. It was just fun and cozy. Oh, and making popcorn and cranberry strings!
I’ve never been this early! So excited for this 💕
Elf on a shelf for me and my granddaughter was a blast. My granddaughter would ask him/ her a question and I would respond using my left hand so she wouldn't know it was me. But my granddaughter loved it and I loved seeing her so happy. I think it's great... you should really try it.
Holiday tradition: when I was little, my dad would read ¨The Night Before Christmas" to us before bed on Christmas Eve. He would be super over the top and use silly voices. We would then put out our cookies and milk for Santa and go to bed. My father is gone now, but I still remember those times with happiness.