💌what financial success looks like, trendy bags for the season, the ideal holiday dress

TODAY IS MONDAY, DEC 16

WHAT TO EXPECT

• stories: old school christmas traditions, Baja sanctuary, financially successful
• this week’s read: save me an orange
• recent articles: trendy bags for this season
• quote: on growing up
• extra stories
• recipes to try: chewy brownie cookies
• ICYMI

LIFESTYLE: ‘OLD SCHOOL’ CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS
While some classic practices like caroling, hot chocolate, and handwritten cards evoke warm childhood memories, others like fruitcake and excessive tinsel might be better left behind. Technology has transformed holiday celebrations, offering quick digital solutions like online card services and instant shopping, yet there's a compelling argument for preserving slower, more meaningful traditions. The essay celebrates the charm of homemade gifts, the potential revival of neighborly activities like door-to-door caroling, and the joy of creating lasting memories through activities like baking, craft nights, and passing down heirloom items. Despite the fast-paced digital world, there's a heartfelt invitation to reconnect with the season's true spirit by embracing intentional, personal traditions that foster connection and nostalgia.

TRAVEL: LUXURY TRAVELERS ARE SEEKING OUT THIS SANCTUARY IN BAJA
The East Cape region of Baja California has popularly become a serene alternative to the bustling Cabo vacation, especially with the Costa Palmas luxury development. While traditionally known for sport fishing and marine activities (such as the UNESCO World Heritage site Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park), the area has recently transformed with the 2019 opening of the Four Seasons Resort. The resort represents a stark contrast to the surrounding modest communities, providing guests with a curated experience that includes fine dining, golf, and easy access to natural attractions. Despite its isolation and hefty price tag, Costa Palmas maintains a relatively small footprint compared to other Mexican resort destinations, offering travelers a chance to unplug and explore the region's stunning landscapes.

WEALTH: WHAT IT TAKES TO BE “FINANCIALLY SUCCESSFUL”
While the average American considers just over $270,000 annually as a marker of financial achievement, there's a contrast between age groups. Baby Boomers (born before 1964) are content with salaries around $100,000, Gen X and Millennials (born 1965-1996) aim for about $200,000, and Gen Z (born 1997-2012) aspire to earn nearly $600,000 annually. Despite these targets, Gen Z remains the most optimistic, with 71% believing they will ultimately achieve financial success. The study underscores a cultural shift where younger generations view success through a lens of self-determination and increasingly high financial benchmarks.

save me an orange is a poetry collection in which Hayley aims to highlight the true essence of feeling a struggle and pain while growing up. Her verses weave a narrative that is both deeply personal and universally resonant–through shadows of the past and the fleeting moments of joy captured in the simplicity of sharing an orange.

ON GROWING UP: Be not afraid of growing slowly; be afraid only of standing still. — Chinese Proverb

Each person will grow at their own pace, and that’s completely okay, so long as you continue allowing the growth. The second you willingly decide to become stagnant, you halt your growth altogether.

🥶 it’s getting colder so you’ll need ear muffs

🧤 these cashmere lined gloves…say no more

🎅🏼 a pullover in the Christmas spirit — red or green

🎄 if this isn’t the most perfect holiday dress, then I don’t know what is

(IN CASE YOU MISSED IT)