WHAT TO GET A(n) (almost) 5-YEAR-OLD, MOM & DAD- OUR REAL FAMILY GIFT WISH LIST

Filling out our lists together with Atlas giggling over glow sticks and Dad debating camera lenses made me cherish those little holiday moments. It’s not about how many gifts end up under the tree. It’s about knowing what each of us values, what brings us joy or comfort, and what reminds us who we are. Maybe we get some items. Maybe we don’t. But this list? It’s our wishlist- for gifts, for magic, for memories. Its for an almost 5 year old Capricorn, who knows exactly what he wants. Its for a busy mom and dad who are still trying to figure out their identity and sanity and deserve a few specials things for their hard work.

Here’s a peek into our lists, in case you’re shopping for someone(s) like us.

Atlas: Almost 5 year old boy, full of wonder

Something he wants: Paw Patrol Toy
Something he needs: Lightning McQueen Undies
Something to wear: Slippers
Something to read: A Kids’ Cookbook

More wishes:

• Glow sticks

• Legos + MagnaTiles

• Yoto cards

• Water-color palette

• Hot Wheels T-shirt

• For his room: LEGO pillows

• Tickets or passes: Train park!

Me, Mama (Virgo Barbie living in Ken's Mojo Dojo Casa House)

Something I want: Meta Ray-Ban Glasses
Something I need: “Little library” for outside our house
Something to read: So many books: Brené Brown, Mel Robbins “Let Them Lead,” Poems and Prayers by Matthew McConaughey…

More wishes:

• Shampoo & conditioner

• For my room: Area Rug for the living room

• Tickets or passes: any Cubs game!

Dad (Joe, my husband- the Libra who takes his wish lists seriously)

Something he wants: DJI Osmo Pocket 3 AND a Sony Camera Lens
Something he needs: New Jeans AND Undies
Something to wear: Hoodie
Something to read: “The Creative Act” by Rick Rubin

More wishes:

• Ryobi Speed Bench

• Yearly Planner

• Leatherman multitool

• Magnetic external SSD card (for all the practical tech daddies)

• For his room: A bedside table lamp

• Tickets or passes: Comedy show

I’m sharing our lists here, not to show off, but maybe to inspire you to make one with your crew too. Save a and print out the blank bellow!

Hope Santa Brings you everything you ask for.

XoXo

Mrs Clause

Britt

HOW I HACKED THANKSGIVING

Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be chaos. This year, I pulled off a holiday that felt relaxed, fun, and full of magic. All it took was three tricks: a great partner, smart shortcuts, and a little kid power. Here’s how we did it.

1. Great Partner Energy-

This Thanksgiving ran smooth because I divided & conquered with my husband like a dream duo. We divided tasks based on what we’re good at and conquered communication on sharing exactly what needed to get done, when, and who would handle what. We ALSO managed to mow the front and back yard, clean the pool, and cover it for the season- all before football even started.

2. Smart Shortcuts in the Kitchen

Full transparency: These small shortcuts may included “boxes” but if that meant less stress, more flavor and more time to actually enjoy the day…

• Simple dessert upgrade: A boxed yellow-cake mix became a mouthwatering apple-cider-donut bundt. I baked it the night before so it was ready to serve when guests arrived.

• Easy bread & sides: I made a quick batch of dinner rolls that proofed overnight in my fridge and used boxed stuffing mix and gracy packets but jazzed them up a bit (with added turkey drippings and extra seasoning) so it tasted homemade.

• Prep ahead: I prepped what I could in advance so everything came together easily when dinner time hit. And what HIT was the Turkey! The recipe and the blog from our First Thanksgiving Day Hosting shares it.

3. Kid Power + Fun Entertainment

Want to keep little hands busy and add extra joy? Let them help, child labor! My son, Atlas, turned into my little holiday helper: he helped set the tablescape, carry dishes, and even helped assemble decor. It made him feel like part of the celebration- and honestly, it made the day easier for me too. We also turned parade-watching into a family game (see my Macy’s Parade blog for that) while waiting for the Turkey to cook and so I could prep a few sides.

If you’re hosting Thanksgiving and you want to survive with your sanity and maybe even enjoy it use these tricks. Find your person, make a plan, split the work, and don’t be afraid to cut a few corners that don’t matter. You got this!

XoXo

Britt

HOW WE TURNED THANKSGIVING DAY INTO A MACY’S PARADE PARTY AT HOME

This Thanksgiving felt different in the best way. We kicked it off at 630 am AZ with the Macy’s Parade yes, the big balloon-filled tradition many of us grew up watching and I turned our living room into my own little parade-watch BINGO party.

Because why not make watching fun? Bingo sheet and coffee in hand, we had our own family game going. My son was ON POINT- he practically won bingo before the floats even reached Herald Square. Since the broadcast runs long, we went with blackout style bingo so we could all stay engaged right through until the end. I printed 2025 cards from Music City Moms and their squares were so specifically on point to this year!

I need to mention the deocration that will help to take center-piece later… Mini City and Parade Balloons! Inspired by The House That Lars Built but wanting to do my own version of it we set our first buidlign and Bluey up on the tv console. When the last balloon drifted across the screen, its was time to set the table for later.

No offense, but Im tired of the usual turkey-leaf plates and beige tablecloth- this year, I decided to mix things up for Thanksgiving with bold, fun, and a little bit nostalgic, turning our backyard into a long dining mini parade route of its own.

I saved you and I the money and my my own printable cityscape skyscrapers and taxi-cars and even made some coloring sheets for the kids and word search the adults loved! Colorful Mylar balloons on sticks (taped to Jesus candles to weight them down) were rising above like parade balloons dancing over the city. The whole table looked like NYC- minus the cold and crowds! Honestly? It was a vibe. Guests walked in wide-eyed: surprise! Not your average Thanksgiving. Plates, cups, and napkins themed black and white and gold.

PRO TIP: I hit up Michaels for the small foil balloons (turns out way cheaper than ordering online).

Now, I’m not gonna lie. I’m not sure what I’m going to do with the leftover balloons or extra food yet. But once the chaos calmed down and the plates cleared, I caught myself thinking: this might just become a “we do this every other year” tradition. Because here’s the thing: Thanksgiving isn’t just about the turkey or the football- It’s about having fun and making memories. And if that means turning my house into a Parade Route / Bingo Hall- I’m in.

XoXo

Britt

DEAR SANTA FROM ATLAS

Happy Holidays Finding Arizona fam! Guess what? Atlas, the adorable almost three-year-old has a special message for the man in red himself—Santa! Let's dive into Atlas's letter and get a peek into his toddler Christmas dreams.

Dear Santa,

Merry Christmas. It's me, Atlas, I've been super good this year—ask my mom and dad; they'll vouch for me! I even wrote our Holiday Postcards this year.

I wanted to share a few of my most favorite things with you and say thanks.

First off, I love staying busy everyday. From parks, to classes to shopping I just love seeing friends!

Now, let's talk talents. I'm basically a little fish in swim class, splashing and making waves. Dance class? I’m pretty much the star on the Christmas tree over there. And in the kitchen, I'm a mini chef, can’t wait for you to try my cookies my mom and I made.

Okay, Christmas wishes. I'm all about Paw Patrol and Mickey Mouse—they're my absolute faves. Their adventures are epic, Santa! And when I’m watching, Nutrigrain bars are my snack, but only the strawberry ones, please.

Oh, Santa, can we talk about the Grinch? It's my favorite Christmas movie and book ever! His grumpy heart turning all warm and fuzzy—it's the best. I love max! Do you think he likes Nutrigrain bars too?

Santa, I'm turning three in January! So, this Christmas is like a super-duper early birthday party for me as I go visit my Papa and GG in San Diego. I'm even leaving out some milk and cookies for you there so forward all gifts to the beach. Maybe throw in a Nutrigrain bar for Rudolf.

Wishing you a Merry Christmas, Santa! And if you see the Grinch, tell him I said hi!

From Atlas

Isn't he just the cutest? Cheers to a happy holiday season with the ones who bring you joy.

XoXo

Britt

FEASTING, FOOTBALL & FIRSTS: OUR INAUGURAL THANKSGIVING HOSTING

Oh, the excitement of hosting our very first Thanksgiving bash. We welcomed friends and fam into our home filled with love and a touch of chaos. Grateful doesn't even begin to cover it. Thankful for the belly laughs, the warm embraces, and the simple joy of having everyone we love under one roof.

Cue the kitchen magic! Tried and tested, Sunny's Texas Two-Step Turkey Recipe became our kitchen sidekick, turning our humble turkey into the superstar of the feast. The air buzzed with the scent of success, and let me tell you, it was chef's kiss perfect! We made sure all the sides were covered: Sweet potato skewers, green bean casserole, mac and cheese, cranberry sauce, so much more but let’s not forget my signature cobbler!

Our table was a Pinterest-worthy dream- our long table became the epicenter of joy and laughter. Kiddos had a blast with activities galore. Plus, we took our living room to the patio with the three-game marathon on the screen for our football fanatics!

As we gathered round, it wasn't just about the grub; it was a about the memories. Celebrating in a place we once shared out vows, now passing gravy and coloring turkeys. Here's to many more more laughter-filled, food coma-inducing gatherings!

I also wanted to say thank you; if you are reading this you mean a lot to me. Finding Arizona Podcast has allowed me to share so much about our life + special memories, like this, with you. You are part of our family. Our doors are always open + mics are always on. Drop a message if you want an invite to Thanksgiving 2025!

XoXo

Britt

SOMETHING TO WEAR, SOMETHING TO READ, SOMETHING YOU WANT, SOMETHING YOU NEED

Merry Christmas from the Acevedo Family. We hope your holiday is filled with amazing memories with the one’s you love. Our almost two year old sure keeps us busy, so while we’re able to squeeze in a Christmas nap I wanted to share our Christmas gifting rhyme I followed this year, I mean Santa, and it was all smiles on Christmas morning.

It's called '“Want, Need, Wear, Read” according to Google. “The idea is that you only give four gifts to each child: Something they want, something they need, something to wear, and something to read.” I found it searching for gifts one day and my list was set. I also like my rhyme better.

Wear: Instead of matching jammies, I opted for these Project We shirts I scored at Old Navy. Photo shoot to come.

Read: This little guy loves to read so picking out a This Little book was hard because we want them all. Presidents was our choice; learn our history and quiz dada for Jeopardy.

Want: Arts and crafts were on the list to Santa, so to keep it clean we got a waterless coloring page. Elmo and his friends come to color with the stroke of a magic marker.

Need: Atlas also enjoys puzzles so a Target dollar spot Christmas puzzle ended up being the most played with toy, so far, and most rewarding. I love seeing his brain work, practice patience and get excited for a win! Sorry nothing to tag, its now going for 4 times the price on a third party reseller. Maybe we should be careful with this gift, A.J, lol.

Also loving our Melissa and Doug Realistic wooden cleaning toys: broom, mop, etc while I am Dyson -ing my whole home, top to bottom. Its a want and need for a Virgo and Capricorn Christmas.

Enjoy the rest of your holiday with your family- off to decorate some cookies and go Suns, tonight!

XoXo

Santa Britt

ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS AVOCADOS

Santa! It’s been a great year- how have you been? It is me, Atlas. Almost two now and ready for my second Christmas. I helped decorate this year and the cookies… *chefs kiss*. Hey! I saw a lot of you at the Churchill handing out candy canes; I didn’t take any because I couldn’t trust them. You’re the real deal.

Since you’re THE Santa and I have been extra good this year I know you can get me what I want….a lifetime supply of avocados. How about A year? A grove? A tree? A sprouted seed? My mom try’s with all the composted ones I provide for her but her thumb is not so green.

Also, while we’re at the big stuff can we get some extra kindness in this world. My friend H sings about TPWK and I agree. Our fam sprinkling kindness, but while you’re out delivering all those presents put some extra kindness in those stockings, would ya.

I won’t keep you much longer. I know you’re a busy man and I appreciate your time. I saw special show with Mickey and the Blues Clues one too ; great work. Tell the Mrs I said, “Hello.”

Atlas

PS My mom made my santa letter printable for you to get it into the real man just in time! She’s the best.

NON PUMPKIN PATCH ACTIVITES FOR TODDLERS

Not to say a PP isnt worth the photos, but when you’re ready for something new, no matter where you are, save this!

Year 1 we did the PP. It was cute. Mother Nature’s Farm in Gilbert, AZ. He was free- it was worth it, but to save the $15 per person this time we opted for some more budget friendly and free activities!

1. The McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park- Scottsdale, AZ but if you Google “Halloween train ride in yourcity” you will get some great results.

   • Great for ALL ages

   • Buy tickets ahead

   • Bring your own food and drinks and make it a party

2. Trick or Treat in the Day- Don’t literally go ask for candy, but instead look at the decorations while the suns out.

   • Day decorations are not as scary

   • You can see all the spooky details

   • Map your treat route- which houses look like they came to play?

3. Paint a Pumpkin- Why carve, when you can paint!

   • Any age can show off their skills

   • Add to a party or just by your self / with your little

   • Pumpkins last longer without a carve or use a fake one and reuse next year

   • No pumpkin? No problem! Hand and footprint spooky crafts are just as fun

4. Make Cookies- Sugar cookie dough for now + freeze for next 2 months of holidays!

   • Decorate pumpkin cookies and skeletons using your ornament and gingerbread cutters from other holidays

   • Make lots of dough + freeze. I have an unbeatable recipe here

   • Make a spooky quesadilla- triangle cute eyes and mouth on a tortilla + burnt cheese bonus

What ever your spooky activity make it a memorable one. Creating holiday core memories have been a highlight of parenthood. Let me know if you recommend any other non patch spooky tings….. Happy Halloween!

XoXo

Britt.

ALEXA PLAY SPOTIFY PLAYLIST ATLAS HALLOWEEN

“ALEXA PLAY SPOTIFY PLAYLIST ATLAS HALLOWEEN” Do it! Tell her!

Since entering the parenting world I try and steer away from the typical children’s songs especially when the holidays rolls around. We hear enough of the classics and I know there are great songs out there- underrated.. dare we say underwraps….

Halloween 2021 I started and now this spooky season Atlas and DJ BJ are ready to reveal this amazing mix of 60 songs that anyone from 60 days to 60+ years will enjoy - it’s proven! You can play at a party, listen to on a slow morning, play in the car, and of course share with your trick or treaters.

Let us know your fave song on the list and if we left any hidden gems out. Happy listening and haunting ghouls and boys.

XoXo

DJBJ

WARM HOLIDAY WISHES

Merry Christmas 2021 from the Acevedo Family. Atlas’ FIRST Christmas and we had to make a statement for this year’s Christmas card. His face says it all. Scroll through and let me know your favorite.

I found the inspo on Pinterest. I scored the suits on Amazon #FTW ! I sourced out my parents who were visiting that week as our photogs. I edited the photos in Lightroom and used Canva to design the card from scratch. Easy-coming from this full time worker full time new mama. Don’t let the matching sweaters, fancy foil and pre-made templates scare you from creating the most perfect holiday card.

Also, while I have you. Do me a favor and watch this SNL skit about family holiday cards.

We would love to get your family holiday card and display it on our wall. Send us your warm wishes too!

XoXo

Britt