Christmas...it's here!

It is officially Christmas. School is out, wrapping is done, goodies are prepared, party shoes are ready to go... I'm beyond thrilled. It's getting pretty magical over here. I'm loving each and every minute so far.

Best Wishes and Merry Christmas to you.

xx

Holiday Costume Fun

Yep. These are just SOME of the costumes I wore this week for my littles. They sure got a kick out of it! 1 more day until Christmas break...I think I can make it until 3:00pm tomorrow afternoon!?

Holiday Pretties

Have I told you all just how much I love gift wrap. No? Weelllll...guys, this girl loves everything and anything about perfect packaging! Ribbons, bows, box toppers...these are a few of the things that make my heart sing during the Christmas season...and at birthdays, weddings, baby and bridal showers!

 Tonight I plan on starting some of my very own holiday wrapping. This year I'm going with more of a non-traditional theme...think pink...gold...green...glitter and butterflies. Butterflies! At Christmas! You may think I'm totally playing against the rules here but trust me people, these decorative trimmings are beyond pretty! Don't believe me? Fine then (Oooh, hanging with first graders for too long, sorry). Pictures coming soon.

Until then... some inspiration for ya...

What's your favorite?

Flower toppers?

Colorful with a personal touch?

Vintage glam?

Simple sweet treats?

Natural colors?

Chic and stylish?

Pink, gold, green, glitter and butterflies? ;)

Now... on to the pile of gifts that are currently taking over our kitchen table. GO!

Brookie Baby

We had quite a scare Friday night. While walking our daily route around the neighborhood, Brooks and I were attacked by a Rottweiler. I made it out with a small bite on the finger and bruised knees; Brooks with a couple scratches up/down her back and a sore neck...(from me trying to pull her from under the Rott) =( It really could have been soooo much worse. Although our injuries were minor, the experience was a major one that I will definitely never forget. I felt like a mama bear trying to protect her young cub. I wasn't at any time scared for my safety, the thought never occurred to me, my goal was to save Brookie. Even though she is "just a dog" as many like to say, she is my baby, part of our family and I love her to pieces. So thankful for our helpful neighbors who were "at the right place at the right time" (or wrong place, at such an awful time if you ask me) to help and protect us. Much gratitude to you all.

Kisses and hugs to my sweet girl. xo

Refresh

As I sit here tonight perplexed by this crazy busy week and thinking of the one that is soon to follow, I find myself excited and thankful for Christmas and the holiday break that is whispering my name. It's getting closer and believe me, I can feel it within every inch of my being. The anticipation and bewilderment of the season has finally taken over. I am ready to refresh, to revive, and to rejuvenate my inner sparkle.

I look forward to spending time with family and friends that I have missed so dearly over the past couple of weeks and months, to Christmas baking and wrapping (oh, the bows and ribbons!!!), lunch dates and chats with mom, dad, aunties, and sister, hot cocoa before bed (when I do not have to set the alarm for the morning), cooking delicious meals for hubby and I with plenty of time to prepare, finishing full loads of laundry without interruption, spoiling the baby (Brooks), celebrating a childhood friend's New Year's Eve wedding, and quite honestly... I just can't wait to breathe. Yes, to breathe. To take a little bit of  time to do some of the things I long for each and every day in my busy day-to-day life.

Christmas you've come just in time.

I am excited, so very hopeful and above all, thankful.

Merry Christmas.

GLAM

Pictures taken by Jay Drinker of Drinker Images

I have had many questions regarding my makeup favorites and go-to's. Here are some of the products I am using/loving at the moment...

Maybelline Superstay 24 Color in All Day Cherry 

NARS The Multiple in Orgasm & Riviera

NARS Black Moon Eyeliner Pencil

DIOR Show Mascara in Rich Black

Smashbox Photo Op Enhancing Palette - Hazel Eyes

Philosophy Marshmallows For Toasting Lip Shine

Essie Nail Colors

Victoria's Secret Fragrance Mist - Love Spell

Victoria's Secret Baked Mineral Bronzing Powder

Christmas Party with The Greeley Girls

My Chocolate/Caramel Cupcakes making an appearance!

The Piano Man and some family members singing Christmas Carols

I spy some Greeley Girls!

The Babe, Me and Michelle (Cousin)

Last night was the annual Greeley/Michaud Christmas Party. We all look forward to it each and every year. The food, the company, the laughs, the drinks, the Piano Man (this year I learned how to play Adele's Someone Like You on the keys...well, kind of), THE DECORATIONS! My A.Kelly is one of the creative minds behind The Greeley Girls. Their interior holiday decorating sense is just magical (as exemplified above)! Each detail is carefully thought out and no space is left without a sparkle! Love their vision. So inspiring.

Thank you Greeley Girls for an amazing night!