Wednesday, January 7, 2026

holiday highlights: pictures, makeup looks, and memorable moments

The first week of the new year is over already. It is hard to believe, but time seems to move faster these days. Though there is no denying the arrival of January, there is a part of me that is still lingering behind in December. The holiday season had some highs and lows...and I am trying to hold onto the highs as much as possible. That is the reason for this holiday highlights posts. It seemed appropriate to share a few seasonal photos, makeup looks, and talk about the more memorable moments. 

Monday, January 5, 2026

holiday highlights: essence advent calendar (reveal and mini reviews)

It is always difficult when the holiday season ends. All of the twinkling lights seem to dim as the reality of day to day life takes over once more. Instead of putting off various adult responsibilities, it is time to tackle that neglected to-do list and get back on track. Sigh. As a way of extending some of the seasonal wonder, this week is dedicated to holiday highlights posts. These often focus on Christmas themed products, decorations, makeup looks, and so on. To start this week of holiday highlights, it is time to take a look inside the Little X-Mas Wonder Advent Calendar from essence. Keep reading for a reveal and some mini reviews.

Thursday, January 1, 2026

there is magic in new beginnings.

A new year has arrived. Thank goodness! 2025 was a difficult year for myself and a lot of other people that I know...so it is nice to leave that year behind and cross my fingers for a fresh start. I came across this quote the other day, "There are far better things ahead than any we leave behind," and I sincerely hope that is true. We all deserve health, happiness, peace, and love. Though it is unknown what 2026 has in store, right now, we can look at this blank page with a renewed sense of optimism. 

Wednesday, December 24, 2025

hope brings cheer and santa's sleigh bells ringing.


Hope has been on my mind a lot lately. This year has been the hardest of my life, so I have spent a lot of time trying to hold onto hope...trying to find it in the midst of uncertainty and pain. Though the Flintstones cartoon, "A Flintstone Christmas," is something that I have watched many times in the past, the lyrics from one of the songs stood out to me in a new way this holiday season. (You can listen to the song here.) It is a simple song, a sweet song, and a reminder that hope is powerful. It keeps the best parts of us alive. Several events have chipped away at my ability to have hope, but this song makes me want to find my way back. I want to believe in goodness, in justice, and in joy. For now, there is a special Christmas wish in my heart and I am praying that it comes true this year. I am wishing that Christmas wish with everything I have left in me. 

Monday, December 22, 2025

holiday #FOTD: red and green makeup look

Each year, it seems there is a different colour trend that takes over the holiday season. Frosty winter whites and blues, pastel candy colours, and sometimes, even silver and gold. However, it is nice to stick to the classics. Red and green are commonly associated with this time of year. Traditionally, these colours were tied to winter solstice traditions, with red holly berries and green leaves, but these colours have also been known to represent blood and eternal life. Whatever the reason...red and green are easily the most recognizable Christmas colours. That is the reason this holiday themed #FOTD focuses on both.

Friday, December 19, 2025

obscure christmas cartoons i've been watching this year.

What is it about holiday specials? Each one manages to make life feel extra beautiful. I suppose it comes down to this: the world is often stressful, frustrating, and unfair, but in Christmas movies and television specials, there is hope. Things get better. People grow. Circumstances change. Dreams are realized. Prayers are answered. It feels nice to escape to a magical dream world every now and then. Though there are many beloved Christmas movies and television specials out there, this post is focused on some obscure Christmas cartoons that have been high on my list of loves this year. If you are looking for something different that is sure to make your season bright, consider one of these hidden gems. You just might find a new favourite.

Wednesday, December 17, 2025

holiday scent collection (fragrance mists and body sprays)

There is a lot to love about the holiday season...scents included. During this time of year, there are all sorts of seasonal candles and essential oil blends making my home smell fabulous. However, there are also fragrance mists and body sprays regularly thrown into the mix. (I have made a promise not to purchase more for the next little while, since there is a nice assortment.) Sometimes, these are used as room sprays, and other times, as a festive perfume. Here is a closer look at my collection.