November 2021

  • 25 Best Christmas Songs For The Ultimate Holiday Playlist

    25 Best Christmas Songs For The Ultimate Holiday Playlist

    Siri, play the “Best Christmas Songs” playlist. It is officially Christmas time in the city (we only acknowledge Christmas after Thanksgiving over here). I know that many of you have started prepping for Christmas by decorating and shopping. I don’t fault you for getting a headstart on spreading the holiday cheer! Even though we all choose different times of the year to start celebrating Christmas, there is one certain thing:

    There’s something magical in Christmas music!

    What could it be? It could be the traditions we create, the nostalgia, and the feelings that come over us whenever we hear our favorite Christmas songs. Hearing the right Christmas song is guaranteed to put anyone (Santa or the Grinch) in a merry mood. So, even if you’ve already started decorating the house, trimming the tree, wrapping presents, or needing to change your bah-hum-bug attitude, I’ve created a list of the Best Christmas Songs of all time.

    This list has many traditional and modern songs that you can add to your playlist this year. The songs range from many different genres of music– from gospel, rhythm and blues, and pop. You can definitely expect to find some of your favorites on this list! There is something on here for everyone! Whether you prefer originals or your favorite renditions, you’re guaranteed to find something you’ll love. As you are putting together your Christmas playlist this year, use this list of the best Christmas songs to help you create the ultimate holiday vibes.

    List of Best Christmas Songs

    “All I Want For Christmas Is You,” Mariah Carey

    Mariah Carey “All I Want For Christmas Is You” Christmas Song

    No Christmas playlist is complete without the best-selling modern-day Christmas song of all time.

    “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus,” Jackson 5

    Jackson 5 “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus” Christmas Song

    It’s always wonderful to hear young Michael sing. This rendition by the Jackson 5 will for sure have everyone singing and dancing together.

    “You’re a Mean One,” Tyler the Creator

    “You’re Mean One” from The Grinch (2018) Christmas Song

    The Thurl Ravenscroft version is a phenomenal classic, however this modern version from the 2018 remake of The Grinch from Tyler, the Creator is just as great.

    “This Christmas,” Chris Brown

    “This Christmas” music video from Chris Brown

    There are so many great versions of “This Christmas”. I’ve got to admit that this Chris Brown remake knows how to get in the holiday spirit! Add this version or your favorite rendition to your playlist and you’ll catch yourself singing along in no time.

    “Santa Baby,” Eartha Kitt

    Eartha Kitt, “Santa Baby” Christmas Song

    This classic holiday tune is my favorite Eartha Kitt song of all time. If you are needing some ideas for what to include on your Christmas list, play this song for some inspiration 😉

    “Let It Snow,” Boyz II Men featuring Brian McKnight

    Boyz II Men music video for “Let It Snow” Christmas Song

    I’m not making any promises that it’ll snow where you are, but just in case, I’ve got something that will make snow happen right in your living room. Listen to the smooth voices of Boyz II Men and Brian McKnight to make your winter season warmer!

    “8 Days of Christmas,” Destiny’s Child

    Destiny’s Child music video for “8 Days of Christmas”

    A fun spin on the 12 Days of Christmas and guaranteed to make you do a little holiday dance!

    “Silent Night,” The Temptations

    Silent Night Christmas Song

    “In my mind” your playlist will never be the same. The Temptations truly sang us into a blissful, peaceful night.

    “My Favorite Things,” The Supremes

    My Favorite Things Christmas Song

    Although I love the original from the 1959 Rodgers and Hammerstein musical “The Sound of Music”, I prefer listening to this rendition by The Supremes.

    “Player’s Ball,” Outkast

    Official music video of “Player’s Ball” from Outkast

    The 1994 Outkast album, Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik was heralded by this song as their lead single which was just in time for the holidays. The song imagines a “player’s ball” for pimps and hustlers on Christmas Day.

    “Sleigh Ride,” TLC

    Official music video for “Sleigh Ride”

    Have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year with this fun, holiday classic. You’ll be spreading lots of good cheer with this holiday dance tune.

    “What Do the Lonely Do?,” The Emotions

    What Do The Lonely Do by The Emotions

    Christmas time can bring lots of feelings and emotions for everyone. You’re not alone! Whether you’ll be celebrating with family in person or virtually this year, this song will be sure to help you get through your holiday emotions.

    “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” The Temptations

    Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Christmas Song

    The famous reindeer of all has countless Christmas songs about him, but I’ve got to say that this one is my favorite! This rendition by The Temptations will for sure make you join in on all the reindeer games.

    “Silver and Gold,” Kirk Franklin

    Silver and Gold Christmas Song

    Whenever I want to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, I always play this beautiful gospel song from Kirk Franklin and the Family. “I’d rather have Jesus, than silver and gold.”

    “Do You Hear What I Hear?” Whitney Houston

    Audio from “Do You Hear What I Hear” on Youtube

    Enjoy a holiday tune from the greatest voice of all time! Whitney Houston’s “Do You Hear What I Hear” is a beautiful classic spin on previous renditions of the song.

    “Silver Bells,” Johnny Mathis

    Silver Bells by Johnny Mathis

    The unofficial announcement song of the Christmas holiday season.

    “Merry Christmas Baby,” Otis Redding

    Otis Redding’s’ “Merry Christmas Baby”

    An American Christmas standard song that has been covered dozens of times. This rendition recorded by Otis Redding in 1968 is sure to be a playlist favorite.

    “Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire,” Nat King Cole

    https://youtu.be/huGJNckrvoE
    “Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire”

    One of the most famous Christmas songs of all time is also known as “The Christmas Song”.

    “Christmas in Hollis,” Run DMC

    Music video for “Christmas in Hollis” by Run DMC

    “Christmas in Hollis” is the ultimate holiday song. Wrapped in samples of “Frosty the Snowman,” “Jingle Bells,” and “Joy to the World,” and one of the best Christmas gifts ever presented in song.

    “O Holy Night,” Mariah Carey

    Music video for “O Holy Night” on Youtube

    A truly iconic performance of “O Holy Night” from the Queen of Christmas.

    “Christmas Just Ain’t Christmas,” The O’ Jays

    Holidays are most meaningful when they are spent with the ones you love. If you are planning to spend Christmas with family and friends, this song will be a great addition to the playlist.

    “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas,” Luther Vandross

    “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”

    A soulful rendition of this classic Christmas song by Luther Vandross.

    “O Come All Ye Faithful,” Juanita Bynum

    Audio of “O Come All Ye Faithful” by Juanita Bynum

    A rendition of the classic holiday song by gospel singer Juanita Bynum.

    “I’ll Be Home For Christmas,” Brian McKnight

    “I’ll Be Home For Christmas” track from Brian McKnight

    Another song for your holiday travels and family gatherings.

    “Jingle Bells,” Ella Fitzgerald

    Clip of Ella Fitzgerald’s performance of “Jingle Bells”

    Known as “one of the smoothest voices ever”, Ella Fitzgerald brings a swinging, unique sound to this Christmas classic.


    Need More Christmas Songs?

    Follow me on Apple Music to listen to my playlists. Be sure to leave me a comment below so that I can follow back 🎄🥳


  • 3 Cute & Easy Hairstyles Using Headband Wigs

    3 Cute & Easy Hairstyles Using Headband Wigs

    Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay a penny more, but I’ll get a small commission, which helps to keep the lights on! Thank you!

    Who doesn’t love cute and easy hairstyles?

    Wigs and braids have made styling my curly hair less of a struggle. I love using wigs and braids to switch things up. Wigs are a preferred protective style because they are generally quite simple to wear and don’t require much maintenance. After reading reviews online about different wigs, I decided to try a new style that I’d never heard of before: headband wigs.

    Here’s why…

    krissy bri wearing cute and easy hairstyles with headband wig

    More About Headband Wigs: Cute and Easy Hairstyles

    • Additional headbands and hair accessories
    • Iridescent cosmetic bag
    • LuvMe Hairclip
    • Bobby pins
    • Wig Cap
    • Wig Care Instructions
    • Hair Wrap
    • Edges Brush
    LuvMe Hair is an affordable luxury wig company with quality hair.

    The wig came with everything that I needed to style it. I put this wig on and styled it in less than 15 minutes! So, let me show you how I did it.

    Keep scrolling to reveal the long headband wig and easy hairstyles you can recreate using headbands.

    To Achieve Cute and Easy Hairstyles Using Headband Wigs, You’ll Need

    • wig cap
    • wig w/ clips and headband straps
    • extra headbands and accessories for styling
    Wearing the headband wig with one of the extra headbands that it came with.
    Headband Hairstyles: Wearing the LuvMe Hair headband wig as it is (kinky curly)
    Headband Hairstyles: Wearing the headband wig with a middle part and headband.

    Wig Hairstyles Are Easy To Achieve!

    I honestly love everything about wearing headband wigs as a protective style. It’s perfect for someone like me who loves convenient, cute, and simple hairstyles. I can still look cute while protecting my natural hair and my edges. It is so versatile and gives plenty of inspiration for switching up my hairstyles whenever I want. I’ve finally found the ideal protective style for me.

    Rating: 5 out of 5.

    I believe that the headband wig could help any naturalista looking for protective hairstyle solutions and inspiration. It is not too good to be true, ladies! You can achieve this simple look too!

    Watch my LuvMe Hair Headband Wig Tutorial and Review on Youtube

    What do you think? 

    Comment with some of your favorite time-saver protective hairstyles below!

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  • 6 Wishes For Kids From Parents

    6 Wishes For Kids From Parents

    Typically I try to steer clear of giving out unsolicited parenting advice. I rarely share my parenting experience or detail what my parenting journey has been like for me. When my son was born, I made a promise that I would not be one of these moms out here who shares everything. I am someone who enjoys privacy and likes to protect the people that mean the most to me. I believe in keeping some memories sacred and only allowing the people who experienced them to know what those memories are. Moreover, one thing that I believe in when it pertains to parenting is creating special bonds with your children. As I watch him grow, I wish and hope for him to have the world. What other wishes for kids do parents want?

    Wishes for kids are plentiful. However, the parent’s job is to love, provide, protect, listen, understand, and teach their kids. There’s no official parenting handbook that teaches or prepares you for the “perfect” way to do any of these things. Parents will always wish the best for their kids.  When I found out I was going to be a mother, I vowed that I would do everything to help my son grow, develop, and reach every milestone. I couldn’t be more proud of the little person he has become! As his sixth birthday approaches, I am hopeful that he will continue growing and owning his individuality. 

    The following wishes for kids are from parents like me. We are the parents that will be there to help our kids navigate in this world.

    My six-year old son Landon

    Wishes For Kids From Parents

    Always Count On Me, Don’t Ever Count Me Out

    I wish that my son always reaches out to me. I want him to know that I am forever accessible and only one call away. There isn’t a distance that I wouldn’t travel to get to him. One thing about it is mamas make great friends and confidants. I want my son to never feel like he can’t talk to me about something (good or bad). I don’t want him to rule out using the “mama lifeline” in a time of need. 

    The Gratitude Attitude

    Sometimes people take their blessings for granted. I never want my child to miss out on his blessing for not possessing a spirit of gratitude. Gratitude is a catalyst for change in life. My wish is that he thanks God every day for his life and his blessings. I hope that he appreciates and cherishes everything in his life and that he has no room to complain about anything. I want him to practice understanding what it means to be selfless versus selfish

    Be Proud Of You Who Are

    I want my child to know that it’s okay to be inspired by others and still be himself. Embracing individuality will help him understand that no one is the same, and everyone is unique. I encourage self-love and self-care. He needs to know I am proud of who he is. Additionally, I would like for him to affirm the type of person he wants to become. Be bold and unapologetic at all times!

    Chase Dreams & Passions

    As a person who is in the pursuit of making their dreams come true, I can only hope that my son becomes inspired to do the same. No, I do not wish for him to have my dream. My wish is that he finds the courage to pursue his own dreams. I ask that he discovers his passion for something and choose to go after it. Please never allow anyone to convince him that his vision isn’t capable of fulfillment; or that he isn’t deserving of success and happiness. Fairytales can come true, and children should believe in happily ever after. They should always follow their hearts and do what makes them happy.

    Forgiveness

    Moms are not perfect. Sometimes we make mistakes. I know that whenever I make a mistake, I hope for understanding and a chance to correct my wrongdoing. I never want my child to make a mistake and feel they aren’t allowed to make them. Mistakes happen; it’ll be okay. Disappointment in mistakes made should never lead to grudges. I want my son to learn how to let things/emotions go and accept them. I want him never to fear the words I’m sorry

    We’re all trying! 

    We are all doing the best that we can. 

    We are humans who deserve compassion.

    Be a Good Person

    Kids are naturally kind and sweet. They have to learn how to share, be polite, and engage socially. My son started Kindergarten this year; and has had to adjust how to learn and play in a classroom setting. This type of school environment is key because he needs to experience what it’s like to learn and play with other kids at school, listen to teachers and follow the rules. My wish is that he continues to challenge himself to be patient and kind to others. I want him to learn good versus bad behavior and the consequences for each of them. I want him to never be timid in meeting new friends and expressing his feelings. May he never be a bully, may he never be bullied by someone! Allow people to see the goodness of his nature.

    If you are a parent or soon-to-be parent, what wishes would you have for your children?

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  • Comfort Foods: One Delicious Chocolate Velvet Cake

    Comfort Foods: One Delicious Chocolate Velvet Cake

    The holidays have arrived! The 2021 holiday season would like to enter the chat and remind you to start prepping for the busy season. With Thanksgiving being just three weeks away, I have to ask. Have you finalized your holiday plans for the year? What comfort foods will you have this season? Who will be cooking for the holidays? What does your holiday dinner menu look like?


    If you aren’t able to answer those questions yet, it’s okay. Don’t panic. You still have a couple of weeks to make and finalize your plans! It doesn’t matter if you are the one doing the cooking, bringing a dish to the work potluck, or family gathering; I have an idea for a recipe that you’ll want to try this year. This Chocolate Velvet Cake recipe will bring something different to any menu and is the perfect addition to your holiday spread. Hopefully, this recipe will make your comfort foods list!

    That’s right. If you’re a chocolate lover, you will love this recipe! It’s an alternative to some of your favorite holiday desserts (red velvet or German chocolate). I found this recipe online via the Magnolia Charm Baking Company, and I’ve been thinking about adding it to my Thanksgiving menu. Every year I search for recipes and dinner suggestions to get ideas for my menu theme; this year was no different. Y’all, I believe this will be a sweet conversation piece around the table this year!

    Hold on. Before I reveal the recipe…

    magnolia charm owners

    You should know more about the creators of this recipe!

    MCBC is a family-owned cake and dessert boutique. Magnolia Charm’s cakes and desserts are made to order with only the best ingredients and personalized for any special event or occasion. Magnolia Charm’s mission is to create memorable sweets that exceed customer expectations through innovative, high-quality ingredients, event personalization, impeccable service, and flawless presentation.


    Delicious, Chocolate Comfort Foods

    Click here to reveal MCBC’s Chocolate Velvet Cake recipe. Be sure to download and save it so that you can make this dessert whenever you’d like!

    The Magnolia Charm Baking Company is located in the Greater Baltimore area and accepts local custom cake and dessert orders. You can visit the Magnolia Charm website to get more sweet recipes, view their portfolio, and shop their online store. Follow Magnolia Charm on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and other social media platforms for updates and recipes!

    I’ve got to know if you will be giving this Chocolate Velvet Cake recipe a try this holiday season? What are some of your must-have desserts?

    Leave a comment below!