Merry Christmas Eve-Eve

Merry Christmas Eve-Eve! How did we get here already? I know none of us can wrap our heads around it, but here we are. As rough as this year has been, I'm still incredibly thankful for all the little things and the health and happiness of our families as we close out this crazy year and the holiday season. I will be unplugging from work and here on the blog until the new year, and want to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! 

The year started off "normal" with Lil' Miss going to a few birthday parties, going out to dinner, grabbing brunch with friends, activating our annual passes at SeaWorld, and working at the actual office instead of from home. And then March came in screeching everything to a halt. However, there has still been SO MUCH good to come out of this year, and I wanted to reflect upon it before closing it out.

The good things to come out of this past year: 

• Both of us still having our jobs AND the ability to work from home.
• Welcoming a new pup into our home - I can't imagine our lives without Luna already!
• Lots of projects done around the house that we never would have had the time for with our usual hectic schedules. 
• The ability to slow down, and focus on what truly matters.
• Online workouts from my local Bar Method studio and our zoom workouts from our Fitness Director at work. Oooh and yoga!
• Eliminating negativity - ain't nobody got time for THAT! 

• Athleisure and all things comfy on repeat daily - how are we ever going to be expected to put on a bra and makeup every day again?
• All the homemade baked goodies
• LOTS of extra time with Lil' Miss which let's be honest has not always been easy (not even CLOSE). However, it is a time that we will always treasure for years to come. 
• Board games and puzzles
• Lots of swimming which turned Lil' Miss into a fantastic swimmer this year
• Netflix shows and my forever go-to for laughter The Impractical Jokers
• The ability to road trip to amazing beaches in Florida. We enjoyed a weekend in St. Pete Beach and in Key Largo. 

• Daily walks with Lil' Miss
• Supporting our favorite local businesses
• Glasses of bubbles

• Celebrating my birthday with a few of my best girls
• Target Drive-Up
• A work event which we shot on a stage, and streamed virtually to people all around the world. The highlight of said event - we had Tony Robbins as our keynote speaker which was incredible. Since we didn't have an audience, and it was streaming around the world it felt like a private show for those of us working the event.

• Decking the halls in our home which has brought a lot of happy cheer!
• All the cheesy Netflix Christmas movies - just the feel good relaxation I need in the evenings.
• Yummy smelling candles

Now, I want to hear from you - spread some more holiday cheer by talking about all the good things in your life this past year.

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So Fresh So Clean

I always seem to wait too long in-between hair appointments, and I can never figure out why. Because you always walk out afterwards feeling like you can take on the world. I was excited to visit Salon Dulay back in August for my first ever Shine Treatment (because this mane can take ALL the help it can get!), and was swooning over the beautiful space. You can find my Shine Treatment recap here which was back before they changed owners, and it was called Rizzieri Salon. 

The new owners have made the space even more beautiful, and added on some fun features like a complimentary hand massage with a color treatment and Chakra aromatherapy during the hair wash. I was pampered to say the least! I think it's safe to say I'm honored they asked me back for a full touch up color and haircut, and walked out feeling like a queen. Ok not THE queen. Is it that obvious I recently finished Season 4 of The Crown? If you haven't caught up - what are you waiting for? They finally made it to Princess Diana! 

How gorgeous is the hair washing room? I now want a wall like that in my bathroom! I was very impressed by their safety measures. Masks are mandatory, your temperature is taken at the door, lots of hand washing, and there were even dividers at the sinks in case you end up next to someone during the hair washing portion. I love seeing businesses stepping up and enforcing the right protocols to keep everyone safe while also being able to survive. It breaks my heart to see so many shops and restaurants going out of business. 

*Before the Magic*

If you were following along on my InstaStories, I mentioned that I ordered a festive coffee before arriving at the salon minus the calorie bomb. I was craving one of their Irish Cream Cold Brews, but my eyes bugged out that it has 14 grams of fat. Yikes! So, I ordered a blonde roast with a splash of skim and 2 pumps of Irish Cream syrup which totally hit the spot. If you're looking for more of a peppermint flavor you can sub in 2 pumps of peppermint syrup in place of the Irish Cream. Tastes like Christmas! 

I loved how there were things that remained the same since the name change such as the use of Aveda products, and the adorable hair dryers that hang from the ceiling. Less clutter on the stylist's station, and fun to watch when it's blow dry time! I was also treated to the same stylist as last time, and it didn't even feel like it had been 4 months since I had last seen her! 

Sweater Dress | OTK Boots {only $40} | Double Ring | Necklace

The before and after shots side by side were a true eye opener. You know when you think you look cute, and then you realize you have been talking to people with food in your teeth or your hair has frizzed up without your knowledge. Yeah that's how I felt. I like to call the "before" look air dried chic. 

Since I had taken the day off to burn off some end of the year PTO, I met up with H for some lunch and we had a much needed day date. He had also gotten a hair cut that morning, so we both were rocking the so fresh and so clean clean vibes. A stroll down Park Avenue, and popping into some of our favorite spots was on the agenda. However, I was deeply saddened by how many shops and restaurants have gone out of business. Don't forget to support your local businesses during this awful time! Curbside pick up options and gift cards are causing the owners to have a little happy dance! 

And can we please talk about this sweater dress? It was a "gift" to myself as I was shopping for loved ones, and I couldn't be happier. It was warm and cozy for a chilly day in Florida, and it's SO soft. It comes in 3 colors, and I may need to scoop up another. Perfect for some me-time at the salon and a day date with my favorite guy afterwards. Plus, it pairs perfectly with over the knee boots.

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Festive and Cozy Weekend

Festive, cozy, and quiet weekends are my favorite this time of year. The weather was meh, so aside from taking Lil' Miss and the pup to the park to run around we cozied up at home. We made our annual gingerbread house which Lil' Miss called her "bringe-iss-bread" house, baked Christmas cookies - Grinch Cookies to be exact, mailed out our Christmas cards, wrapped Christmas gifts, ordered in pizza with extra fresh garlic (I guess it's a good idea we were homebound - ha!), and curled up on the couch watching Christmas movies. Ok that's a record for using the word Christmas in an opening paragraph. 'Tis the season... 

*She looks like Michael Jordan going for a layup*

I included the recipe for Grinch Cookies on my InstaStories which is super easy, and totally negates my rule of no fake crap in our food. Between the cake mix and the food coloring (only 1 drop thankfully) it's me saying who cares it's the holidays (and still 2020) - ha! And let me tell you it's totally worth it. 

And to switch gears in the biggest way because who talks about beach and pool cover ups less than 2 weeks before Christmas? When I was reached out to so I could give material and sizing feedback on this kimono coverup I was mentally transported to an actual real life tropical vacation. My passport is burning a hole in my pocket, and waiting to come back out and play! Where is the first place you'd like to go once it's safe to travel again? 

I have a short week this week, as I have more PTO to burn off before the end of the year. We're taking Lil' Miss out for more festive fun, and I'm also finally getting my hair done. I thought going back to brunette from blonde several years ago would be less maintenance. Not the case! It ends up fading pretty quick and looking dull, and let's not forget the lovely grays that are duplicating by the day. After my hair appointment, I'm looking forward to a day date with the hubs. Happy week before Christmas! 

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Dear Santa

We are in the final countdown to Christmas - how crazy is that? I'm just excited that I was able to break out these blue beauties for some outdoor bubbles because I know I'll be in PJ's and athleisure for the foreseeable future. Which I'm also not upset about. Let's embrace the good right now - we are fortunate enough to have our health during a pandemic, our jobs in an economic downturn, and so much to be thankful for. Oh and definitely enjoying the extra time at home which has brought our little family closer, and we have gotten to SO many projects that never would have happened with the hustle and bustle of what used to be normal. Rushing out the door every morning and wearing a bra is for the birds! Am I right?

Sweater | Faux Leather Leggings | Heels | Clutch | Ring in Rose Gold Drusy | Watch | Lipstick in Creme Cup

Even if we are a long way out from getting dressed up for a real life big event, a girl can dream can't she? A fabulous pair of heels, actually wearing makeup, and a beautiful statement ring which is less that $13 - yes please! 

For now, I say let's put on some fun pieces, light the fire pit or your favorite candle, and enjoy some cocktails on the patio. And that's not to say that I don't love all these cozy evenings on the couch watching Netflix. So, this is my letter to Santa circa 2020. 

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Bubbles and Christmas Lights

Believe it or not I actually got dressed and put on make up not once, but twice this past weekend. On Saturday, we went to a drive-through Christmas light display and grabbed dinner before hand. Which I'm glad we did, because the line of cars to get into the event was super backed up so we lucked out being able to hop in line since we were already in the area. Lil' Miss was SO excited that Santa was at the end, and we rolled her window down so she could say hi. He told her to be good, and he'll see her soon. Adorable! 

It was a chilly evening, so I went the cozy route but actually put in some effort with a sweatshirt that can be dressed up or down and some ruffle sneaks. Perfect for family night! 

Sweatshirt {30% off} | Jeans {similar} | Ruffle Sneakers | Sunnies | Necklace | Pearl Barrette

The next morning, I headed out for a birthday brunch to celebrate Emily's birthday. 'Tis 2020 so instead of the big group celebration we usually have, a few of us girls cheers-ed to her over bubbles and small plates. We tried a new-to-us spot called Chroma in Lake Nona before walking over to Boxi Park for some live music outside. The weather was perfection, and it was nice to catch up with the girls which is always good for the soul. Since we don't have any fancy holiday parties to look forward to this year, I broke out my sparkly blue heels and faux leather leggings for the fun. I cannot believe it took me so long to jump on the band wagon, they are THAT amazing! So cozy and flattering, yet give that extra pizazz than my other leggings. 

Sweater | Faux Leather Leggings | Heels | Clutch | Ring in Rose Gold Drusy | Watch | Lipstick in Creme Cup

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Let it Sparkle

We had a cold front blow through the sunshine state this week which has me reminiscing about all the travel of year's past. As in any year that wasn't 2020. Just last week I donned a cozy tank and shorts to drive down to the Keys for a few days of outdoor fun. Travel style isn't just about the clothes, it's also about the fun accessories like stackable rings and fun bags. 

I was armed and ready for our most recent trip to Key Largo last week. I took the minimal approach, and only packed 2 pairs of sandals - the ones on my feet and a pair for the pool and beach. 

Still love the dainty pieces for outdoor dining on our anniversary trip to St. Pete Beach in June. It was a nice little getaway after being at home for several months. 

A beautiful rose gold bridge ring was the perfect piece for a cozy chic outfit for Thanksgiving weekend in Marco Island last year. Another beautiful water view - Florida is always showing off! 

All dressed up for a work event while in Singapore - believe it or not the gala was right before I left for the airport to begin the 30+ hour trip home. Exhausting but SO worth it! 

Excuse the lighting of this photo, because the main focus is the fact that it was taken outside an amazing restaurant Milan. Another gala, and whirlwind work trip. This time it took me across the pond to Italy. I had to do a lot of walking that evening so opted for my favorite ballet flats in rose gold of course! 

All dressed up for the last work gala of the year (and who would have thought it would be my last for the unforeseen future?!) in Rio De Janeiro. I brought along my favorite bow bangle and studded heels, and recycled the same little black dress I wore to the first gala of the season here in Orlando. I always love to promote shopping your closet! 

Still swooning over this fountain at the resort we stayed at in Boca Raton last year for a quick overnight on my birthday. A stop by this beauty before we walked across the golf course to dinner was a great idea.

We took Lil' Miss on a staycation to the lazy river in June 2019 for another quick overnight, and she was so excited to pose with mommy as we walked to dinner. I broke out an oldie but a goodie dress and a dainty gold necklace. She was wearing Lilly and it was another reminder of how her closet is better than mine - ha! 

A statement necklace and a bold cocktail ring were on deck for wine tasting my way through Napa and Sonoma with friends in 2017. The views and the wine were incredible, and I can't wait to go back someday! 

I donned the same statement necklace along with stacked bracelets when we explored the beautiful island of Bermuda on our babymoon in 2016. I still can't get over how insanely blue the water was there, to this day I will claim it's more beautiful than the water I've seen in Fiji or the Caribbean. And the pink sand at Horseshoe Bay? AMAZING! 

Hair extensions and a bold lip paired with flip flops for a friend's destination wedding in Punta Cana back in 2015. It was nice to dress up, but still keep it casual. And those beach views? Yes please! 

Ok now I have a serious case of wanderlust! I pulled out my passport ornament to hang on the tree last week, and now I can't wait to use the real deal again. Where's the first place you'd like to travel once it's safe again?

**This blog post is in collaboration with Nakturnal, however all opinions are my own

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