2017 / Mainly Marta :: A Motherhood + Lifestyle Blog

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What started as a digital diary to document a newfound journey as a stay at home mom / wife has quickly evolved into my own little corner on the internet where I share all that life brings my way -- the good, the bad, and everything in between. Thanks for stopping by; I hope you stay awhile!

12.26.2017

#BLOGMAS RECAP :: 2017


Well my darling dears, let me start off this post by saying MERRY CHRISTMAS -- I hope you had a wonderful day with your loved ones. I sincerely hope it was filled with joy and all the sweet, merry things.

As you may have noticed, I stopped #blogmas unintentionally at Day 19. I say unintentionally because I had every single intention to keep going. The entire month of December I was a week ahead of my posts, until about the 14th, where I stopped writing for a weekend because I flew to Texas for a family trip.

While that trip was only three days, I came home with some bug and have been sick since then. This year was a strange one because I'm also pregnant -- and that put Christmas shopping on the back of my mind which is SO not like me. Add being super sniffly, exhausted from flying and a toddler who just recently learned to walk, I was doomed once I stepped foot onto Pacific Northwest soil.

The interesting is that when I came home on the 17th, I didn't even start to scramble. I waited until the last minute and I was wrapping gifts at 11:00 am on December 25th. I cannot believe I fell so behind. I'm feeling rather disappointed in myself, but at the same time, I am cutting myself some slack -- I'm not super woman. I'm 18 weeks pregnant, wobbling around like a penguin already and trying to chase my super independent toddler around.

When it came to blogging lately, as well as most of my social media feeds, they've have all taken the back burner because I've been so worn out. #Blogmas has helped rekindled the fire and given me that push to get back into the swing of things. And because of that, I'm super happy I got to day 19 even if I didn't make it all the way to the end.

Here are the posts I missed:

  • My Christmas Tree + Home Decor 
  • Felix's Christmas Pajama Haul 
  • Christmas Pet Peevs 
  • When We Open Presents 
  • The True Meaning of Christmas + Favorite Holiday Verses 

If you're still curious about these posts, let me know and I'll figure out a way to blog about them while still being relevant. When it comes to #blogmas all I can say is maybe I'll participate again next year, maybe I'll set smaller goals next time around, or maybe I'll make it all the way to day 25.

I definitely had great time this year. Thanks for reading along!
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12.19.2017

Day 19 of #BLOGMAS :: Christmas Q & A


S I X days until C H R I S T M A S people ... can you believe it? Today I thought I'd answer some questions about the most wonderful time of year -- some of these questions have been emailed to me, while others I find myself answering often this time of year, so let's get started.

Do you like to stay in your PJ’s, or dress up for Christmas? 
It honestly depends on when I actually wake up and if I'm opening presents at my home or my parents house. If I have to leave my house or I get up super early, I dress up. Otherwise, you'll find me lounging in my pajamas until I have to get dressed. 

If you could only buy one person a present this year, who would it be?
This one is a toughie because I have both a husband and a baby who both deserved to be gifted. Ultimately, my baby is one and he doesn't understand what presents are all about, so I'd gift my husband. Plus, I'm pretty sure he's gotten the baby something, so I wouldn't feel that bad. 

Do you open your presents Christmas Eve or Christmas morning?
MORNING -- we don't place the presents under the tree until Christmas Eve. 

Have you ever built a Gingerbread house?

Yes, and let's just say I'm not an artist and should be kept away from building anything that doesn't come with instructions!

What’s your favorite Christmas meal or treat?Sarmale and Racituri. They're Romanian dishes. Sarmale are cabbage rolls and Racituri is translated into "meat jelly" which sounds gross, but it's actually super delicious! 

Have you ever made a snowman?
Every single time snow falls, I go out and build a snowman. 

Which do you like better, Christmas Eve or Christmas Day?
I love them both the same -- the cheery mood of both days just make my heart really happy. 

White lights or colored lights?
WHITE LIGHTS (but I like colored lights too). 
I usually want white lights inside and colored ones outside because I'm particular about these things. 

Do you like giving gifts or receiving gifts better?
Giving. I really love that feeling you get when people open up their gift and seeing the joy / excitement on their faces! It's seriously the best thing.

What is your favorite thing about Christmas?
The happiness that comes with this holiday -- especially for believers.

When do you start getting excited for Christmas?
November 1st. No shame in the Christmas spirit game. 

What would be your dream place to visit for the holiday season?
Spending Christmas in New York City is on the bucket list. 

Is your Christmas tree real or fake?
It's fake this year because I have a one year old. I felt like it's not as dangerous as having a real tree fall on him if he decides one day that he wants to pull it. BUT normally, I'm all about REAL trees in the house because it smells heavenly. 



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12.18.2017

Day 18 of #BLOGMAS :: 10 Christmas Movies To Watch


It's day seventeen -- whaaaaaat!? We're so close! Christmas is literally creeping around the corner and there is still so much to do. I'm so behind on my Christmas shopping this year and that's typically not like me. At least I haven't slacked on my #blogmas posts, right?

This year, I don't have cable, so I haven't been able to binge watch those 25 days until Christmas movies on FREEFORM or those cheesy Hallmark Christmas movies like I typically do. Instead, I've opted to watch movies that are both from my childhood and some other newish ones that I've never seen before. I thought I'd share 10 movies that made the list this year!


Home Alone Movies -- 1, 2 & 3 :: These movies are classics! No matter how old you are or how many times you've seen these movies, there is something about them that doesn't get old. I feel like you have to watch these movies at least once every Christmas season.


ELF and The Grinch Who Stole Christmas :: were movies that I haven't watched fully up until this year. I'm glad that I finally did though because they were absolutely adorable. I'll be watching them again next year too because they're perfect films for children and adults.

The Polar Express :: I actually saw this one in theaters when it first came out and it was auh-mazing on the big screen. Every time I watch it at home (which happens to be every single year) I always end up thinking it's better on the big screen. However, the graphics are still wonderful and I love it all the same.


Disney's A Christmas Carol ::  I always watch once version of the Christmas Carol every year because it's a classic tale by Charles Dickens and I love seeing different renditions of it. Every interpretation brings new life to the story and I really love that. With that being said, this year it was Disney's version that caught my attention. I hadn't watched this movie until this year and I felt like it was.. guy, I haven't watched this yet. I've been swamped with life, but I have time. I'll update this section right after I watch it -- I promise.


Mickey's Once Upon A Christmas, Mickey's Twice Upon A Christmas & Mickey's Magical Christmas :: so bear with me, I'm a mom and because of that fact alone these movies are a must in my home. I mean, come on, it's Disney. With that being said, I'd be lying if I said that I didn't enjoy them too. They remind me of my childhood and that's enough of a reason for them to make the list. They're played throughout the holiday season in my home because my baby loves them and they're just too cute to only watch once.

Just so we're clear, these aren't the only Christmas movies I've watched this year, and they're definitely not the last once I'm watching either. I've watched some cheesy one's on Netflix and Amazon Prime, so I'm getting my fair share of those too. The movies that made the list are ones that I find myself watching with my family time and time again.

What are your must watch Christmas movies?
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12.17.2017

Day 17 of #BLOGMAS :: Gift Guide [ Expecting Mom & Newborn ]


Today's post is about gifting expecting moms and their sweet little ones. I feel like pregnant moms have so much to do before baby arrives that it's nice to go ahead and ease the burden a bit by gifting them something that they might find useful once baby arrives.



  1. Dock-A-Tot :: a great little mattress for the little one. I've heard nothing but great things about this product from moms of newborns. I love that it has a cushion around the side -- moms can rest assured that their baby isn't going anywhere. They have a toddler version too! 
  2. Lily Jade Diaper Bag :: this diaper bag is a God send when you have a baby because it's so spacious. It's also super stylish which is an added bonus. Being a mom doesn't have to mean that you don't have style, right? 
  3. The Ollie Swaddle :: a swaddle that has velcro -- aka, genius. I wish that I had this with my first baby. It sounds like such a good and productive idea!
  4. Aden + Anais Swaddle Set :: these are normal swaddles, but they are so soft and luxurious. They also happen to have the most stunning patterns and prints on them.  
  5. Gift Cards :: are always a good idea. It's always nice to give gift cards from sweet little small shops because you're supporting a new mamma and another's small business. I chose to feature Binxy Baby because they sell baby hammocks. It's a space saver when you have a lot of groceries to buy and a sweet little one to take with you. 
  6. AHAVA Bath Salts / Soak :: because every expecting mom should take a warm relaxing bath when her whole body aches as she awaits for that precious bundle of joy to arrive. 
  7. ToteSavvy :: this is great for a mom that has a super spacious bag already and doesn't want to transfer to a diaper bag just yet. I love that you can just tuck it in your bag and has so many compartments, so you can stay organized. 
  8. Body Pillow :: such a practical gift because everyone knows an expecting mom's main dilemma in the third trimester is her lack of comfort when it comes to sleep. This gift will definitely ease that burden a bit. 
  9. Amareta Stretch Mark Prevention Belly Oil :: stretch marks are almost inevitable during pregnancy and this belly oil also helps with that pregnancy induced itchy skin. 
  10. Magic Baby Bullet :: this is a great gift for that mom who is all about making homemade baby food for her little one. This magic baby bullet comes with a few accessories that is sure to make the process of making baby food so much easier.
  11. Burt's Bees Bath Set :: washcloths, towels and soap is an awesome set to gift because it has all the essentials in one place!
  12. Jelly Cat Plush Bunny :: Jelly Cat toys are some of the softest and cutest stuffed animals on the market. The prefect gift for a sweet and cuddly newborn. 
  13. Mustela Newborn Arrival Kit :: I love this kit because it gives you the full size products for such an affordable price! Mustela soaps, lotions and cleansing products are organic products and they smell heavenly.
  14. Baby Health and Grooming Kit :: kits like this are great because they hold items that you don't think of getting until you really need them. It's nice to give mom something she'll use in times where things can get chaotic.
  15. Medela Pump In Style Advanced Breast Pump :: the perfect gift for the working mom, the on the go mom and the mom who needs a pump because she produces more milk than baby is currently eating. 
  16. Cashmere Robe :: this gift is kind of pricey I admit, but what mom wouldn't feel like a million dollars in this robe -- especially after she just birthed a precious little one and needs all the pampering she can get. 
  17. Sophie the Girafe Teether :: I haven't met one baby that hasn't loved Sophie the Girafe. It's the cutest teething toy and the perfect gift for a sweet little one.
  18. Baby Bottle Drying Rack :: bottles need to be washed and what better way than drying them than this cute grass mat?
  19. Pacifier Clips :: such a practical gift. Pacifier clips made of silicon are perfect because not only do they keep the pacifier from getting lost, they also become the perfect teething toy later on.
& that's a wrap! 19 gift ideas for mom and that cute little newborn she's snuggling in her arms. 
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12.16.2017

Day 16 of #BLOGMAS :: Winter Fashion Essentials


Today we're taking about winter fashion essentials -- which happens to be my entire closet. I don't know what it is about winter clothes that makes me want more and more of them. I'm practically a winter clothes hoarder. It's both a blessing and a curse. BUUUUUT, anyway... here are a few MUST have items that your closet should contain when the chilly winter season comes along!


  1. Dressy Peacoat 
  2. Flannel / Plaid Scarf
  3. Riding Boots
  4. Heavy Knit Pullover Sweater 
  5. Beanie 
  6. Christmas Leggings 
  7. Dressy Ankle Boots
  8. Pom Pom Beanie 
  9. Lace Up Ankle Boots
  10. Mittens
  11. Long Cardigan
  12. Chunky Knit Scarf
I have all these items in multiple colors, knits, and styles because they're just so trendy. If you live in a place that has a chilly spring, then all these items cross over with you into the new seasons. What are your winter fashion essentials?  
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12.15.2017

Day 15 of #BLOGMAS :: Gift Guide For The Make Up Lover



Eeep! It's day 15 of #blogmas, which means only T E N more days until Christmas! We've made it thus far -- I honestly almost gave up with writing more posts because my baby hasn't been feeling very well, but he's feeling better today, so here I am, writing another post while he naps.

Today's topic is a Make Up Lover's Gift Guide! Here are some gift ideas for that beauty guru in your life. As always, I've linked each product down below, so if anything catches your eye, go ahead and check it out!


  1. Sephora Color Wonderland Eye Palette 
  2. Tarte Park Avenue Princess Chisel Palette
  3. Cover FX Custom Enhancer Drops Vault 
  4. Benefit They're Real Lengthening and Volumizing  Mascara
  5. Still Eye for Elegance Liquid Eye Shadow Set
  6. NARS Laguna Tiare Bronzer 
  7. BECCA Shimmering Skin Perfector Poured
  8. Morphe Brushes Gilded Set :: 901
  9. The Perfect Bite Amuse Bouche Lipstick Set
  10. Fresh Sugar Lip Prep 'n' Paint Set
  11. ColorPop & Kathleen Lights Dream Street Eyeshadow Palette 
So there you have it. I must admit, I loved today's post because I bought some of these gifts for myself this Christmas because they're such amazing products. Of the ones I've already tried, I love them -- great quality! What make up goodies have you splurged on this winter season?  
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12.14.2017

Day 14 of #BLOGMAS :: The Perfect Cup of Hot Chocolate


Today we're going to be talking about hot chocolate! In my opinion, the best cup of hot chocolate is one that is super creamy, smooth and made by yours truly. If I'm going to be completely honest, I only have hot chocolate once or twice a year and I stray away from buying it. I feel like the ones that you get at Christmas markets are watered down. I'd rather buy an iced coffee in super chilly weather than have a cup of hot watery goop -- yes, I know, I'm picky.

Hot Chocolate is fairly easy to make and it doesn't take a lot of ingredients which is something I love about this recipe. All you need is..

  • cocoa powder
  • milk
  • sugar -- depending on what kind of cocoa you're using


The secret to the perfect cup of hot chocolate is ditching the recipes that tell you to heat up water as the first step. I never ever ever use water, I always opt for milk instead. 



To make a cup, heat up 2/3 of a cup a milk -- either on the stove or in the microwave. You want that 2/3 of a cup to be hot because the hotter your base, the faster and better your cocoa will dissolve. If placing in the microwave, I heat it up for about 2 minutes and 30 seconds.

Next pour in your cocoa and mix. I really love the Swiss Miss packets because each packet equates to one cup. But you can also use Hershey's cocoa powder, or Starbuck's cocoa powder -- whichever you love best works!

If you're using powders that come in a can and is unsweetened, then mix 3 tablespoons of cocoa to one cup of milk and add 1 to 2 tablespoons of sugar to that mix. Remember, the sugar is only if your powder is unsweetened!

Mix until you can't see the powder anymore at the surface. If your cocoa isn't hot enough you'll see powder clumps at the top. If that's the case, heat it up some more and mix again until no more clumps are floating up to the top.

Once that's done, add more milk to cool it down a bit and then wa-la! All done. There is your simple, delicious, cup of hot chocolate.

TIP :: if you're making a batch for your family or a larger gathering, heat and mix everything while on the stove. It's much easier and faster. That way you can serve everyone at the same time! 

If you love a bit of flavor and some extra festive flare, add some toppings to your  cup of cocoa! Here are some fun and festive topping ideas:
  • whipped cream
  • chocolate syrup
  • mini marshmallows
  • chocolate shavings
  • cinnamon 
  • candy cane shreds
  • sprinkles
  • coffee ice cream -- any type of ice cream will do, coffee ice cream is just my favorite! 
  • powdered sugar
  • chocolate chips -- mint, white, or milk
  • coconut shavings
  • caramel sauce
The topping possibilities are endless as long as you're creative! 

Well, there you have it my dears -- my simple take on the art of hot chocolate. How do you make yours? I'd love to hear your tips and tricks! 
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12.13.2017

Day 13 of #BLOGMAS :: Free Christmas Prints


We've made it half way though #blogmas and I couldn't be any more excited for today's post. To celebrate the fact that we've got only twelve more days until it's finally CHRIIIIIISTMAS, I've decided to give you all some free prints from my small shop -- Bundled Bebe. I was going to sell these prints, but in honor of the spirit of giving, I thought, why not give them to my readers for free -- as a way to say, thank you for following along. Just right click the print, save it to your desktop & boom, they're yours!


I hope you love the prints because I had a lot of fun making them. 
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12.12.2017

Day 12 of #BLOGMAS :: Gift Guide for Siblings [ Cool Gadgets / Toys ]


I have a total of 6 siblings total and most of them are in the preteen - teenager stage. If you have family members of that age, you may know the struggle that comes with buying them a gift. I feel like the older they become, the more picky and particular they become -- especially when it comes to presents. Here are a few gadgets and toys that may appease this choosy age group.



  1. Complex LEGO Set :: Big Ben 
  2. Bean Bag :: Cat Faux Fur Chair 
  3. Gel Pens :: Tanmit 240 Gel Pen Set
  4. iPhone / iPod Case :: Pink Sprinkled Donut Case
  5. Instant Camera :: Fujifilm INSTAX Mini 8
  6. Nerf Gun :: NERF Doomlands The Judge Gun
  7. Desk Lamp :: 3D R2-D2 Lamp
  8. Knit Hat / Beanie :: C.C. Thick Cable Knit Pom Beanie
  9. FoosBall Table :: Sport Squad FX Table 
  10. Fun Make Up Brushes :: UPLOTER 7 Piece Make Up Brush Set 
  11. Waffle Maker :: Star Wars Death Star Waffle Maker 
  12. Headphones :: iClever Kids Cat Headphones
  13. Drone :: Spider Stunt Drone 
There you have it -- 13 gift ideas to get for the people that we can't live without, even when they're a pain in our sides. What are you getting your tween and teen siblings this year? 


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12.11.2017

Day 11 of #BLOGMAS :: The Perfect Nail Polishes For Winter


Today we're tackling the perfect nail polishes to wear this winter, so let's jump right into it -- shall we? Here are some of my favorite shades for this winter season.

  1. Essie :: Ring The Bling
  2. Chanel Le Vernis :: Fiction (582)
  3. Vernis In Love :: Hotel Pasrticulier 
  4. ILNP :: Full Moon
  5. Dior :: Vernis Paradox — Fall 2017 / Limited Edition
  6. ILNP :: Juliette 
  7. Butter London :: Diamond Geezer 
  8. Essie :: On Your Mistletoes 
  9. Butter London :: Fire Cracker 
  10. Zoya :: Song
  11. O.P.I. :: Krona-logical Order
  12. Deborah Lippmann :: Miss Independent 
  13. Butter London :: Ruby Murray
  14. Zoya :: Jules 
  15. Dior :: Emerald — Holiday 2017 / Limited Edition
  16. ILNP :: Rouge
  17. Zoya :: Merida 
  18. Deborah Lippmann :: Crimson & Clover
  19. Butter London :: Fairy Lights 
  20. O.P.I. :: Top The Package With A Beau
  21. O.P.I. :: Coalmates 
  22. ILNP :: On The Rocks 
  23. Dior :: Amethyst — Holiday 2017 / Limited Edition 
  24. Deborah Lippmann :: Stargasm
  25. Butter London :: Knees Up 
What's your favorite winter shade? Did your favorite make the list? Let me know in the comments! 

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12.10.2017

Day 10 of #BLOGMAS :: Secret Santa / White Elephant Gifts


An awesome thing about the holiday season is the fact that a lot of Secret Santa / White Elephant parties happen and they can be a lot of fun -- if you don't stress about finding the perfect gift for the person you ended up with. Granted, if you don't know the person very well, it can get a little stressful.  Here are three things I keep in mind when shopping for those type of gifts.

  1. Stay Under The Budget If Given One. I feel like this one is super important because when time comes to open the gifts, you don't want to seem like you're "outdoing" anyone. The point of these games is to get everyone into the giving / holiday spirit and you don't want anyone sliding into their seat because the budget was 10$ and someone was just gifted a 40$ make up palette. 
  2. Your Trash Is Someone Else's Treasure. Now this one can be tricky because I'm not advocating for terrible gifts. Don't give anyone your half used bottle of lotion, but try to keep in mind that people have different tastes and something you may not like, someone else could love. White Elephant parties are great for these sorts of gift exchanges because that ugly picture frame you received from your distant cousin Margaret can finally be given to someone who will cherish it foreverrrrrr. 
  3. Small, Bundled Gifts Are Always A Hit. This is my number one motto for Secret Santa / White Elephant exchanges. A little basket filled with bath goodies, self care items or amazing chocolate is what I usually go for because little sets are just so cute. Not to mention that it's a nice way to say "even though this was just for fun, I put time and effort in curating this little gift for you." It takes the "its the thought that counts" to a whole new level. 

I usually shop for Secret Santa / White Elephant gifts at World Market, Marshalls, Target, Home Goods, Bath and Body Works, Forever 21, Nordstrom Rack, The Dollar Store (for cute holiday packaging), LUSH, The Body Shop, and TJ MAXX. These stores have great little things for reasonable prices. I don't typically buy everything from one store, I pick a theme and shop around until I feel like my little gift is complete. 

Here Are Some Small Items That Make Great Gifts 
  • Mini Candle 
  • Small Bottle of Lotion 
  • Bath Bomb 
  • Gift Card -- usually pay for one or two cups of coffee. 
  • Small Packet of Bath Salts 
  • Pens / Festive Pencils 
  • Chapstick or Lip Balm
  • Bar of Soap 
  • Little Bottle of Body Oil 
  • Chocolate Bar 
  • Mug 
  • Hand Sanitizer 
  • e.l.f make up brush 
  • Deodorant 
  • Nail Polish 
  • Pretty Hair Clips
  • Cute Pencil / Small Bag 
  • Socks 
^ these gifts are typical things I look for when creating a mini gift set. 

Have you ever participated in a Secret Santa / White Elephant Gift Exchange? How'd it go? What did you get / give? I'd love to hear your experience in the comments!
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12.09.2017

Day 9 of #BLOGMAS :: Gift Guide for Her [ Wife / Mom ]


Today we're talking about gifting the women in our lives -- our moms, the wife, the sister, or girlfriend. I feel like women are the easiest people to shop for because I think about the pampering they need after all they do. As a wife and mom, I typically want things that will result in some type of "me time" and relaxing. Here are a few gift ideas for the special ladies in your life.



  1. Bath Bomb Gift Set :: LUSH Stardust Spectacular Soak Gift Set
  2. Face Washing / Anti-Aging Tool :: LUNA 2
  3. Moccasins :: Chaia Suede Moccasins Slippers
  4. Body Butter :: The Body Shop Pink Grapefruit Body Butter
  5. Perfume Gift Set :: Coach Eau de Toilette 3-Piece Gift Set
  6. Epilator :: Braun Silk-Epil Wet and Dry 9-Piece Epilator Set 
  7. Purse :: BP Foldover Crossbody Bag
  8. Mug :: 15 oz. Warm and Cozy Campfire Mug
  9. Watch :: Olivia Burton White Dial Watch with Burgundy Straps
  10.  Shower Gel / Bath Set :: Philosophy State of Grace Gift Set
  11. Jewelry :: Gorjana Amara Ring Set
  12. Robe :: Wamsutta Plush Robe
  13. Boots :: Style & Co. Madixe Riding Boots
  14. Candle :: Bath and Body Works 3-Wick Champagne Toast Candle
& that's a wrap for this gift guide! I hope it gave you some ideas or inspiration for the holiday shopping you have left. If you're curious about any of these products, click the italicized text because I linked them for you guys. 
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12.08.2017

Day 8 of #BLOGMAS :: Favorite Holiday Scents


If there is something I love about the holidays, its those yummy smelling candles and lotions that grace the store shelves. Here are some of my favorite scents from Bath and Body Works -- both new and old. These scents smell amazing!



  1. Twisted Peppermint 
  2. Winterberry Wonder
  3. Jingle All The Way -- this is oldie and not sold anymore, but it smells so good! 
  4. Frosted Cranberry 
  5. Currant 
  6. Coconut Mint Drop 
  7. Winter Candy Apple 
  8. Frosted Snow Blossom
  9. Champagne Toast
I'm always looking for new holiday scents, so if you have any other brands and scents that you love, please share in the comments! 
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12.07.2017

Day 7 of #BLOGMAS :: Winter SkinCare Routine Products


It's day seven of #blogmas and I can't believe we made it thus far already. Today I thought I'd share some of my favorite self care products that I use in the winter because let's be honest -- winter can be brutal on our skin, lips and hair. Here are some of the products that I cannot live without when it becomes a winter wonderland outside.


These are my favorite lip products because they really help your lips stay moisturized throughout the winter. I know that most of these products are drug store products, and that makes me love them that much more -- they're super affordable and work better than most high end brands.

  1. Nivea Lip Butter
  2. Soft Lips
  3. Herbivore Lip Butter
  4. Caramex
  5. Fresh Sugar Advanced Lip Therapy 
  6. Blistex Medicated Lip Ointment 
  7. Hanalei Sugar Lip Scrub
  8. Burt's Bees Beeswax Lip Balm
  9. Smith's Rose Bud Salve 

These skin products are my go to during the winter season. I tend to have normal skin which means I get my fair share of oily and dry patches and that can make skin care kind of difficult because I never know what I'm tackling until I got sit at my makeup desk and analyze my face / skin. During the winter, I really focus on hydrating and moisturizing my skin because the cold Pacific Northwest air tends to make it tight and dryer than usual.  
  1. Jergens Hydrating Coconut 
  2. Origins United State Toner 
  3. Vitamin E Skin Oil (also great to grow out your eyelashes
  4. Mario Badescu Rose Water Facial Mist
  5. Nivea Original Creme -- I love having this little container in my purse! 
  6. Dr. Brant Micro Dermabrasion Age Defying Exfoliator 
  7. FARMACY Deep Moisture Sheet Face Mask
  8. Cetaphil Daily Moisturizer 
NOTE :: I didn't include a face wash because I like to switch and alternate between a few of them depending on how oily or dry my skin is.



When it comes to hair, my hair is rather wavy and is prone to frizz. I also am recovering from postpartum hair loss while pregnant with baby number two which means I have crazy baby hairs growing on all side of my head -- making having a cute hair day nearly impossible. Add harsh, cold winter weather to that and it's a hot frizzy mess. These products are my go-tos during this extremely pressing time for the hairs on my head.
  1. Tresemme Heat Tamer 
  2. Kristin Ess Volumizing Mousse
  3. Moroccan Oil Hydrating Shampoo
  4. Aussie Mega Hairspray  (I like number one because it does the job without make your hair crunchy.)
  5. Amika Perk Up Dry Shampoo
  6. Briogeo Don't Despair, Repair! Hair Mask
  7. Kristin Ess Thickening Spray 
  8. OGX Coconut Milk Shampoo
So there you have it -- my winter skincare / self care routine products. I highly recommend all these products as I am using them on the regular this chilly winter season. What are some of your favorite winter products, let me know in the comments!
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12.06.2017

Day 6 of #BLOGMAS :: Christmas Sweaters on Amazon


Amazon is known to have some great items for sale around the holiday season, but I've also stumbled upon several super tacky items while browsing for gifts this year. So, naturally, I thought I'd share some Christmas sweaters that I saw on Amazon with you for #blogmas -- the cute ones and the super tacky ones.

THE CUTE / FASHIONABLE SWEATERS

THE UGLY SWEATERS

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12.05.2017

Day 5 of #BLOGMAS :: Gift Guide for Him [ Husband / Dad ]


It's time to talk about gifts for him -- husband, dad, brother, or boyfriend. They're special people and sometimes, they can be hard to shop for. Here are some gift ideas that are sure to make the man (or men) in your life smile.




  1. Watch :: Fossil Grant Sport Chronograph Blue Leather
  2. BlueTooth Speaker :: Bose SoundLink Revolve+ 
  3. Shaving Kit :: The Art of Shaving New York Ocean Kelp Full Size Kit
  4. Cologne Gift Set :: Coach For Men 3-Piece Gift Set
  5. Fancy / Designer Tie :: Michael Kors Men's Pin Dot Melange Tie
  6. Slippers :: UGG Scuff Slippers
  7. Thermos :: Stanley Classic Vacuum Growler 
  8. Shoes :: Mio Marino Oxfords
  9. Duffel Bag :: Herschel Supply Co. Novel Bag
  10. Mug :: Mr.  Ceramic Campfire Mug
  11. Toiletry Kit :: Molton Brown Men's Luxury Bathing Collection
  12. Robe :: L.L. Bean Men's Terry Cloth Robe
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12.04.2017

Day 4 of #BLOGMAS :: Stocking Stuffer Ideas



It's time to talk about stocking stuffers! I love stockings because you can gift mini practical things that you know people will use / find useful. So let's get to it, shall we?


For All Ages
  1. Candy Canes 
  2. Socks 
  3. Keychains 
  4. Pins / Patches  
  5. Headphones
  6. Hot Chocolate Mix 
  7. Camera Phone Lenses 
  8. Mittens, Gloves, Scarf, Earwarmers, Hat  
  9. Gum or Candy 
  10. Hand Warmers 
  11. Journal / Notebook
  12. Magnets 
  13. Hand Sanitizer 
  14. Selfie Stick
  15. Portable Phone Charger / Charging Cables

For Her 
  1. Mini Candle
  2. Chapstick 
  3. Make Up Brushes 
  4. Lotion
  5. Facial Masks 
  6. Bath Bomb / Salts 
  7. Mini-Emergency Kit 
  8. Fancy Pencils 
  9. Make-Up Singles (eyeshadow, highlighter, etc)
  10. Perfume 
  11. Jewelry 
  12. Small Picture Frame
  13. Nail Polish 
  14. Fancy Soap
  15. Tea / Coffee

For Him 
  1. Army Knife 
  2. Bottle Opener 
  3. Shaving Creme 
  4. Mini Flashlight 
  5. Mini Hot Sauce Bottle 
  6. Playing Cards
  7. Cologne 
  8. Razor and Blades 
  9. Bar of Soap 
  10. USB Stick  
  11. Money Clip
  12. Wallet 
  13. Shoe Polish 
  14. Deodorant 
  15. Tie 

For Kids
  1. Craft Supplies
  2. Plush Toys  
  3. Bubble Bath 
  4. Legos 
  5. Play Doh 
  6. Board Books 
  7. Fruit Snacks 
  8. Toothbrush / Tooth Paste 
  9. Bouncy Balls
  10. Bubble Machine
  11. Stickers / Activity Book 
  12. Night Light 
  13. Hot Wheels / Barbie 
  14. Rubiks Cube 
  15. Yo-Yo

For Babies 
  1. Teether 
  2. Rattle 
  3. Pacifier Clips
  4. Board Books 
  5. Onesies 
  6. Pacifiers
  7. Bibs 
  8. Baby Slippers 
  9. Blanket 
  10. Soft Stuffed Animal 
  11. Sips Cup 
  12. Pretend Keys / Remote / Phone
  13. Pajamas 
  14. Baby Moccasins 
  15. Baby Snacks 
Welllll, that's all I can think of for now. Does your family do stocking stuffers? What's your favorite thing to find in your stocking? Let me know in the comments! 
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12.03.2017

Day 3 of #BLOGMAS :: My Christmas Playlist


Today I'm sharing my christmas playlist -- pretty simple. Before I list out the songs, I just want to point out several things.

#1: I may have the same song on the playlist, but it's a different version each time. I love listening to certain artists interpretation of the classics, but at the same time, I also feel like each time I listen to a new rendition of a song, it's either a make it or break it type of deal for me.

#2: I'm not crazy about the glam / glitzy Christmas songs. Like Mariah Carey's "All I Want For Christmas" or Ariana Grande's "Santa Tell Me." Nothing against them or their music, but I'm an old soul. This is an unpopular opinion, I get it. Oh well.

#3: There are about 60+ songs on this playlist -- totaling almost FOUR hours. I am always on the lookout to add more song to the list, so it is and always will be a work in progress.

#4: I have this playlist on my phone and you can bet it's been on repeat since before Thanksgiving -- yup, I am that person and there is no shame in my Christmas spirit game.

SO WITHOUT FURTHER ADO -- HERE IS MY CHRISTMAS PLAYLIST












& there you have it -- this is the current soundtrack that is running in the background of my everyday life. What's on yours?
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