The Christmas Decor Tag!

I started collecting Nutcrackers last year. I have two of these beauties which were my first and still are my favorite. 

Some of the ladies I follow on YouTube were doing this tag, so I thought I'd join in on the festivities. One of these days I will get around to going full-speed with my own YouTube channel but until then, I'll settle for right here on my blog.


1. When do you start decorating for Christmas?

After Thanksgiving. Black Friday weekend. But I keep an eye out for pieces all year long.

2. What style do you decorate your home for the holidays?

I'm very traditional when it comes to holiday decor. I will throw in a trend here or there but I prefer classic color schemes and themes. I enjoy vintage items mixed with newer finds that will still hold its charm for decades to come.

3. Favorite family Christmas tradition?

We always had a big party on Christmas Eve when I was growing up. Friends, family, and lots of laughter that always went very late.

4. Favorite place to buy Christmas decor?

Thrift shops/estate sales. I love the thrill of the hunt and finding high-quality pieces for pennies on the dollar. We have a lot of elderly people in Pittsburgh, so the secondary market is full of wonderful vintage and antique selections. As for traditional places, MacKenzie-Childs is my favorite brand to invest into collecting and I always have fun at Home Goods.

5. Favorite Christmas movie?

A Christmas Story and The Family Stone are my absolute favorites but every year I also have to watch Home Alone (love the soundtrack), Christmas Vacation and The Year Without a Santa Claus.

6. Egg Nog, Hot Coco or Apple Cider?

None of the above! I don't like warm beverages. If the cider was chilled, I might give it a try.

7. Do you leave chocolate chip cookies or sugar cookies for Santa?

Whatever I have on hand.

8. Artificial tree or real tree?

Artificial for several reasons (mainly I like to leave it up for a couple months) but I'm starting to love the imperfection of a real tree.

9. Favorite holiday dessert to make?

Gingerbread!

10. Favorite type of Christmas cookie?

Gingerbread Men

11. Do you/family open any presents on Christmas Eve?

When we were growing up, we usually were given one from our parents and our extended family also exchanged gifts.

12. Do you decorate your tree yourself?

I have more than one. Yes.

13. Where do you spend Christmas Day?

For many years it was my Aunt Dolly's beautiful house but it varies.

14. Favorite Christmas smell?

A crackling fire.






Now Playing: "Everyday Will Be Like a Holiday" by William Bell

Haul: Sephora VIB Sale

If you're a fan of makeup and skincare, you know that high-end products very rarely get marked down. This is why twice a year, beauty lovers are treated to Sephora's VIB sale. Insiders are well aware that the fall sale is always the best because the discount is greater (20% as opposed to 15% in the spring). In addition to this, holiday sets are priced reasonably well so it's an excellent time to score bundles at the best value.

Because I occasionally freelance for another retailer and am able to get 40% off on most of my must-have beauty products, my temptation at the Sephora sale is usually limited to their more exclusive brands. This time around, I only picked up a couple things I've had my eye on all year as well as basics that are always smart to stock up on when it's on sale. While the sale is limited to VIB customers and is now over, these are some products that I highly recommend for Christmas gifts or to keep in mind for future events.


What I Purchased:

• Anastasia of Beverly Hills Modern Renaissance Eyeshadow Palette: Technically, I didn't get this via the Sephora sale. I wanted to but it was out of stock. To my benefit, I was able to score this palette for even less at another retailer thanks to reward money and my insider discount! When this product originally launched earlier this year, I told myself that I didn't need another warm-toned palette but the hype got to me. I love Anastasia's eyeshadow formula and these colors really are my type. I recently cleared out my collection so I was happy to fit this in nicely. I'm curious to see how a few of the shades compare to others I own but as a whole, this will be very convenient to have in one palette. I'm not crazy about the packaging but my first impression in terms of quality in its formula and color range is very good.
• Hourglass Ambient Lighting Edit - Surreal Light: I've had my eye on this beauty since it first launched. It was the number one thing I wanted from the Sephora sale. Hourglass makes some of the most ethereal powders I have ever used. It gives your face an airbrushed, candlelit glow that is worth every penny. I highly recommend this for lighter complexions. I usually prefer my highlight to be subtle and this does the trick in the most wondrous of ways. The natural blush lasts for hours and the bronzer is actually suitable for fair skin. And of course, the faux marble packaging is what sold me. Stunning!
• Perfect Formula Gel Coat Manicure Set: I discovered the Pink Gel Coat polish through a VIB points perk and it is now my favorite nail strengthener and base coat -- but it is so pricey. I always make sure to only purchase it when it is on sale. When I saw this set, I decided it would be a nice way to try out some of the brand's other products.
• Urban Decay All-Nighter Setting Spray Duo: This setting spray is a staple in my collection. It lasts quite a while but when you see the value set on sale, you stock up! I'll be good with setting spray for a long, long time. 
• Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion (x3): This is another must-have that lasts forever but when it's marked down and on sale on top of that, you buy as many as logically possible. The reason the price was slashed is because the packaging changed but I much prefer this version. I won't need to buy another primer for years.
• Sephora Oil Infusion Color & Care (07 Raspberry Smoothie): This was another item I found in the sale section. I love lip oils but they're usually pricey (Clarins is my favorite and YSL makes a beautiful one as well). I have another one from the Sephora brand and thought it was a decent product for the money. This doesn't last long on the lips but it's nice to throw on for hydration and shine.
• Human + Kind Body Oil: I absolutely love body oils so when I found this in the sale section, I scooped it up. I was unfamiliar with this Irish brand but I'm excited to compare it to similar products I have in my collection. I'm always looking for a more affordable alternative to my Clarins Tonic Body Treatment Oil. Maybe this will fit the bill.
• Sephora Cushion Bronzer (Light/Medium): I adore cushion products-- sunscreen, primer, corrector, foundation, blush, highlighter... I've got them all. But I've never tried a cushion bronzer. This product is smaller than I thought it would be and I'm not sure the color will be right for my skin tone but I found this in the sale section and it was a cheap thrill. 
• Benefit Bigger & Bolder Brow Kit (03 Medium): I don't need any more brow products but this value set was enticing. I originally wanted a different kit but it sold out in my shade. I've been wanting to try out some of Benefit's new brow range so this was a good way to do so at the best price.
• Natasha Denona Eyeshadow Palette 5 (Color 04): After the Hourglass kit, this was the next item I wanted the most from the sale. I've wanted to try Natasha Denona eyeshadows for the past couple years. I could never justify the cost of her large palettes but this smaller set at the discounted price was worth the splurge. Based on these shades alone, I'd say that her shadows are definitely over-hyped and not worth the astronomical price that she charges for the large kits but they are beautiful and of good quality. Just not outstanding. I'm very happy to have this set and see how the shadows perform on the lids but I doubt that I repurchase anything else from her line. 

While it's fun to treat yourself every once in awhile, I don't condone hoarding cosmetics. I've always loved being a girlie girl and collecting makeup but as I've gotten older, I prefer the way I look with less and less. It's fun to try new products and experiment artistically with different looks but I'm hoping that 2017 will be the year that my collection gets smaller and better edited. I've done a pretty good job at narrowing it down but it's still insane for one lady to have. One of my new year's resolutions is definitely to simplify and keep things in check.

Now Playing: "Quick Musical Doodles" by Two Feet

Luxe Living: Christmas Wishlist

1. Hair Dryer. I have a ton of hair. I'm definitely in need of a quality blower that will get the job done faster and more efficiently.

2. Prada Candy. I'm fortunate to get 50% percent off at the end of the month so I'm going to stock up on a few fragrance sets and roller balls.

3. Guerlain Meteorite Pearls, Limited Edition Holiday 2014. I'll probably pass on these because it's red not pink. The beads complement someone with darker skin. But a beautiful beauty item none the less.

4. Gucci Cosmetics. I was ecstatic when I found out Gucci was launching its own makeup line. I purchased a number of things as an early Christmas present to myself. I plan to do a review post sometime in the next few weeks.

5. Gallery Leather Planner. I've had this planner every year for the past few and it's a favorite. Worth the splurge. I'm old school and still prefer to write everything down.

6. Guerlain Primer. I've had my eye on this for the past couple years but can't justify the price tag. I'd like to eventually add it into my collection but it would make a nice Chistmas gift for the lady who loves a bit of glamour.

7. Shiseido Future Solution Set. My favorite skincare products! Nothing beats Shiseido. My gift to myself for the year. I'll try and do an in-depth blog post on my skincare routine sometime during the holiday season.

8. Amazon.com Gift Cards. To know me is to know my love for books and getting things in the mail. Can't beat the prices on Amazon. Check out my Pinterest Bookshelf Board to see the ever expansive list of what I've been reading or plan to get my hands on next. I really need to do some more Get Lit blog features and reviews.

9. Vinyl. Thrifted, used, new, old... always appreciative of adding new music into my collection. Pittsburgh is a gold mine for vinyl- especially oldies.

10. Louis Vuitton Wallet. I really wanted the Josephine wallet in green but it sold out when I was in Paris this spring. I may be interested in the yellow one but might wait it out. I also think the 'multicolore' business card holder is adorable.

11. Satellite Radio. This one I'll probably hold off as a birthday present (Feb. 1) since I most likely won't be driving my regular car this winter because of the weather. Pittsburgh has the worst radio stations in the country. I'm confident of that. I'm not tech savvy enough to mess around with anything beyond CDs. I'm not going to invest in any more than I already have. It's time for radio. Good radio.

12. Not Pictured: Viper Tool Chest. And the item that is at the very top of my actual Christmas list is not pictured above (note to self: learn to use a new platform other than Polyvore).

This beauty would lend itself perfectly to storing my makeup collection. It's pretty massive. If the majority of my stash doesn't fit, I'm seriously going to make some drastic cuts. I get excited just thinking about organizing everything. And yes, I am clinically insane. Fa la la la la la la la la!

Now Playing: "Count On Me" by Jefferson Starship
*A favorite.

Luxe Living: Christmas Decor

Now Playing: "Soul Food" by Martina Topley-Bird

Flick Pick: Christmas Movies!

It wouldn't quite feel like the holidays without watching some of my favorite Christmas movies. Here is a small list of some of the films I enjoy watching the most during this time of year...

A Christmas Story (1983).

The King of Christmas movies in my eyes. I keep this playing on TBS all day long on Christmas day. It just isn't the same without watching this movie once (or 10 times).

The Year Without a Santa Claus (1974)

I find Rankin/Bass movies to be so adorable. I've loved them since I was little. These are the movies I'll want to show my own children the most someday.

Christmas Vacation (1989)

I love this one. A true classic comedy.

The Family Stone (2005)

I remember seeing this one at the theater with my family when I was home for college break. It's not for everyone but it's one of my favorite modern Christmas movies.

Home Alone (1990)

This was one of the earliest movies I remember. In grade school, it was always the one we watched on movie days. I love the vibe of this. John Hughes was the master.















Now Playing: "Big Jet Plane" (Acoustic) by Angus and Julia Stone
*This version is beautiful but the original is one of my absolute favorite songs of the past decade.

Music Monday: Christmas Playlist!

I'm one of those people who love holiday music. The classic familiarity that it delivers is unparalleled. I don't listen to the jingle bells all year 'round (that would only take away its magic) but I do start rocking around the Christmas tree about the weekend after Thanksgiving. Here are some of my favorite recordings that get me in the spirit of it all...



1. "Santa Baby" by Eartha Kitt, 1953.
2. "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree" by Brenda Lee, 1958.
3. "I'll Be Home for Christmas" by Bing Crosby, 1943.
4. "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)" by Mariah Carey, 1994.
5. "Winter Wonderland" by Ray Charles, 1997.
6. "Happy Xmas (War Is Over)" by John Lennon, 1972.
7. "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" by Judy Garland, 1944.
8. "Have a Holly Jolly Christmas" by Burl Ives, 1965.
9. "Merry Christmas Baby" by Chuck Berry, 1964.
10. "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" by The Temptations, 1968.
11. "Silver Bells" by She & Him, 2011.
12. "I'll Be Home or Christmas" by Elvis Presley, 1957.
13. "Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!" by Frank Sinatra, 1950.
14. "O Holy Night" by Ella Fitzgerald, 1967.
15.  "White Christmas" by Bing Crosby, 1954.

Elf Yourself!

Every year, it doesn't feel quite like the holidays until I create one of these little Elf videos for my family and friends. It's so simple and easy to do but manages to wow people who haven't seen it before. It always puts a smile on my face and laughter in my heart; sentences like that confirm that I am officially in the Christmas spirit!

The embedded code wasn't working but here's a couple of direct links:

Classic Christmas: http://host-d.oddcast.com/php/application_UI/doorId=1177/clientId=299/?mId=51227563.2

Honky Tonk Holiday: http://host-d.oddcast.com/php/application_UI/doorId=1177/clientId=299/?mId=51227496.2













Now Playing: "Hold On When You Get Love & Let Go When You Give It" by Stars
*That title...

Seasonal Selections

• UGG Slippers & Snuggly Soft Socks
• Gucci Guilty Perfume
• Fairy Lights
• Urban Decay Naked 3 Palette
• Red Lips! Urban Decay 69 Pencil & Lipstick
• Leather- Hats, Accessories, Accents, Decor...
• Houndstooth Outerwear- Coats, Capes, Scarves...
• HBO- Ja'mie: Private School Girl, True Detective, Real Time, Girls...
• Penguins Hockey
• Red Wine (Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cab)
• St. Nikolaus Bock Bier
• Bing Crosby Records

Now Playing: "Kites" by Geographer
*Love this song so much. Such beautiful sounds.

Flashback Friday: Christmas Presents!

My Very First Christmas, 1986.

Over the years, here are some of the gifts I was more than happy to find under my Christmas tree:

The Midge Wedding Party!
When I was little, I lived for Barbie dolls. Of course, as a fellow redhead, I was partial to Midge. When that plastic ginger tied the knot with her sexy groom and Mattel sold the wedding party as a set, I was beyond sold. Having the miniature flower girl and ring bearer dolls gave me endless hours of fun (I later made them the couple's children). FYI: Midge and her man drove away from the wedding in their brand new '91-ish Ferrari... I LOVED that Barbie car!

When I got bored with cruising my dolls around the living room, I took this little beauty around the block for a spin... My red Corvette Power Wheels!

And speaking of spinning, I'll never forget the day I was nearly kidnapped while I was playing with... my Skip-It!

And last but not least, what flashback Christmas gift list would be complete without an old school board game?!

Ladies and gentlemen... NIGHTMARE!!!

When I had sleepover parties with my girlfriends, we'd always break this game out around midnight. I'd pop the VHS tape into the VCR and we'd all play along. All I remember was the man on the tape was creepy, scary and a total jagoff. If I could find this disturbing board game, I would totally play it again but with a few adult beverages!
















Now Playing: "Under the Stars" by Morning Parade

Someone Can't Wait Until Christmas...

My 3-year-old shih-tzu, Ireland, is totally and completely spoiled. My Mom stuck a few dog treats inside her Christmas stocking when she wasn't even in the room but Ireland knows they're in there. She wouldn't stop barking for the goodies, so I caved and let her have some early. If this is any indication of what I might be like as a parent with actual children, it looks like I'll be a softy.











Now Playing: "Ride" by Lana Del Rey
*I guess that makes me a fan.

Christmas Q&A

Favorite Christmas Movies? A Christmas Story, Home Alone, The Family Stone, Christmas Vacation, Rankin Bass classics...

What color Christmas lights do you like best? Soft white

Christmas Eve or Christmas Day? We have our party on Christmas Eve so I'll go with that. Christmas Day is usually uneventful after the presents are exchanged.

Is it better to give o receive? GIVE!!! I love shopping for others and get so excited to give them their presents. Now that I'm older, there really isn't anything I want that I can't get for myself during the rest of the year. I'm hard to buy for.

Favorite Christmas song of all time? I have a lot of favorites! "Santa Baby" by Eartha Kitt is always fun.

Favorite Christmas decorations? Obviously the tree, candles, lights, garland, anything Reindeer, ribbons & bows... I love it all!

Favorite Christmas color? Gold! I love all shades of gold for just about anything.

Choice Christmas animal? I don't think I've ever gotten this question, lol. Hmmm... Like I said above, I love the reindeer but other than that, penguins, doves, polar bears... all of them?

Christmas cocktail of choice: Maybe Gin & Ginger Ale? I'm usually a beer or wine girl but on Christmas Eve, we always have tons of Ginger Ale in the house.

Favorite Christmas cookie? Iced Sugar Cookies or Gingerbread Men

Favorite Christmas candy? Candy Canes

Do you have/like a White Christmas? I LOVE when we have a White Christmas! It just doesn't feel the same without snow on the ground. It makes it so much more magical :) I don't know how people can celebrate properly with hot, sunny weather.

Best Christmas gift you ever got? When we were little, My Dad made my sister and I a Victorian doll house. It was massive and took so many hours of craftsmanship. Hopefully, someday I can pass it on to my own daughter.

Best Christmas gift you ever gave? I'm a pretty good gift giver if I do say so myself (or so I've been told). Nothing in particular immediately comes to mind. The guy I end up with will have to receive that award. I usually like to put many gifts inside a reusable item like a purse or storage box and hide little things inside of pockets or other compartments. It makes it more fun.

















Now Playing: "Winter Wonderland" by Bing Crosby

Music Monday: Christmas Playlist!

I love Christmas music so I thought I'd share a small playlist with you. During the holiday season, I like to play these types of songs around the house when I'm decorating or baking. It definitely gets me into the spirit of things. The nostalgia that these classic songs carry with them is comforting. Enjoy! :)

What To Buy The Woman In Your Life?

1. Cashmere/Wool Scarf

Burberry makes gorgeous styles but if you're not looking for a luxury product, you can always go with something in your own price range. If you take care of your scarfs, they can last a lifetime. It makes a wonderful gift. She'll get lots of wear from it and surely receive plenty of compliments.

2. Crystal/Diamond Stud Earrings

If diamonds aren't in your budget, Swarovski makes stunning crystal earrings that are of high quality. It's a reputable brand that will last for many years to come. I love stud earrings because they can be worn every day or dressed up for the evening. Swarovski catches the light quite beautifully. It's a terrific alternative to diamonds and she won't have to worry about losing them.

3. Artwork

If you're shopping for someone creative, she will appreciate art as a gift. Etsy has plenty of independent artists who can custom make something for you. It's a unique gift that she will have forever.

4. Nail Polish

If the woman in your life likes to do her own manicures, nail polish is an excellent stocking stuffer. Chanel is pricey but every girl likes to have a bit of glam in her life. Quality nail polish brands that are favorites among many ladies include OPI and Essie. Popular colors for 2012/2013 are reds, neutrals and glitters. If your girl prefers to have her nails professionally done, treat her to a gift certificate to go with a polish that you like for her.

5. Tickets

Be it a concert, the ballet, theater, museum, sporting event or movies... whatever the lady in your life enjoys, tickets are always a nice way to share a gift together. If you're both movie fanatics, yearly passes are available at many complexes. The same goes for most cultural centers. If you wanted to kick it up a notch, plane tickets are also a nice surprise. Vacations or weekend getaways make an excellent present. Having something to look forward to in the new year is always fantastic.

6. Wallet/Handbag

Most women appreciate a great leather wallet or handbag. Treat your special someone to their favorite designer. If you're not one for labels, a leather craftsmen can custom make something for her that is one of a kind. 

7. KitchenAid Stand Mixer

This is the item that is always on every woman's wedding gift registry. It's the type of product that most women want but don't wish to spend the money for on themselves. If she likes to bake, this makes a fabulous gift. Just make sure it suits her needs. It comes in many colors, so choose wisely! Sidenote: Unless she is an aspiring Betty Crocker, I would avoid this as your only present. It's expensive and very generous but lacks romance. 

8. First Edition Book

If your lady is a book lover, find a first edition copy of one of her favorite works. If she is a big fan of a certain author, contact their PR person and arrange to have a copy personally autographed. Speaking of books, companies like Shutterfly.com help to make wonderful scrapbook photo keepsakes. Your lady friend will appreciate the time and effort you put towards such a special gift.

Every woman is different but these are just some ideas of  presents I would be more than happy to have under my Christmas tree!

Now Playing: "Last Christmas" by Wham!

The Night Before Christmas with Dick LeBeau!

Here's my imaginary lover, Dick LeBeau, reciting The Night Before Christmas to my Pittsburgh Steelers.

Christmas Morning Creaks

"Blood Bank" by Bon Iver.
Still my favorite of his songs. I love this fan made video.

Luxe Living: Christmas Decor!

Now Playing: "O Holy Night" by Nat King Cole