Christmas Time in Oregon

Hello from my favorite state!! OREGON! My home! Where I grew up!

I just love it here and I am sooo happy to be home for Christmas! Though I do miss Ryan, I know he's having fun with his family. And I truly believe it's good to miss people. I think it draws us closer. And when you see each other again you have so much to talk about.

Here's what we've been up to!
Shopping! Eating! Wrapping presents! Seeing friends and family! Eating more! We're having a blast!

 

The first night I arrived I had my ten year high school reunion. Man, is that strange to say. I know everyone always says this - but it feels like just days ago that I graduated. yikes! I'm almost 30.

Anyway- Lots of fun Christmas stuff is happening here and I couldn't be happier! I hope you're all having a wonderful Christmas week. Remember - Don't stress out! Have some fun!!

Thanks for reading,

 

When We're Left Alone

Ryan was gone for two days for a work trip so Bailey and I were left to fend for ourselves. I'm not the best cook so I basically kept myself alive by eating carbs. Pasta is my jam.

Without Ryan at home to watch our TV shows I got a lot of stuff done after work! It's amazing how much time you waste sitting in front of the television. 

I'm all packed for my trip home to Oregon. I was able to keep the apartment tidy and wrote some last minute Christmas cards! Oh, and had this little photo shoot with Bailey... ;)

 Maybe we should make a rule that we're only allowed to watch one hour of television a night...

Thanks for reading,

How I De-Stress & Relax

During the holiday season schedules can get CRAZY. This December seems extra busy with many holiday parties all crammed in to about two weeks. When I start to feel overwhelmed I try to stop, relax and figure out how we can through the week without losing our minds and still have family couch/tv time. Our couch time is VERY important to us. ;)

The first on my to-do list was to get us a bit healthier. So I bought daily multi-vitamins. This makes sure we get all of the vitamins and minerals we need!

I love fresh juice. Juice Press is my all time favorite. I usually try and get a green juice or smoothie at least once a week during the hectic holidays to try and combat all of the germs going around on the subway. No one likes being sick during the holidays.

With parties comes lack of sleep. I love sleeping and need a lot of it, so this is a big one for me. We really try hard to sleep in on the weekends (9am is late nowadays) just to catch up from the work week. If I know we have a big night out ahead of us I'll get in to bed around 8:30pm the night before - read and turn off the light by 9pm. I know, I know... I'm a grandma... But I need my sleep! Sleeping is also when your body can fight off all of those germs!

I'll also try and get to a yoga class. A relaxed mind and body will do wonders for your spirit and your health. The last thing anyone wants to be is grumpy around the holidays. A little sweat will get your endorphins going and help burn off all of those Christmas cookies!


How do you relax and de-stress?


Thanks for reading,

Getting in the Holiday Spirit

One thing Ryan and I both agree on is how much we love Christmas. We are always so excited to go and pick out our Christmas tree and get it up and decorated. Since I always go home to Oregon for Christmas, Ryan and I celebrate Christmas early.

So, we always like to get the tree early so we can enjoy it before I head to the West Coast.

Since our new apartment has taller ceilings, we opted for a bigger tree... Making maneuvering in and out of the elevator - and down the hallway a bit difficult. Doesn't Ryan look happy?!

Every year we also make the piece they cut off the bottom of the tree into an ornament. This year's ornament is extra special. 

I take tree decorating seriously. I like to make sure the tree is full of beautiful, colorful ornaments that we love. Sometimes I try and hide my not-so-favorite ornaments in the back and Ryan calls me out and moves them to the front... Just another example of me needing to relax and go with the flow :)

We found these two little foxes at HomeGoods over the weekend. The Red Fox is the mascot of the college we both went to so we just had to get them. I think they're just too cute and basically make the tree!

Ryan helped by enjoying his tea and biscotti. And looking festive.

Bailey helped by sleeping and looking just as cute as can be...

Did you decorate your tree this past weekend?

What's your favorite part of the holiday season?

Thanks for reading,

Christmas Gifts for the Now What People on your List

Are you, or do you have a super planner like me on your Christmas List???
I've come up with a few gifts that are perfect for the crazy planner on your list!


The Day Designer Planner

Do you have someone on your list that needs a little organizational help? Or someone who just loves writing lists and ummm planning?! This is the best gift! It comes in two sizes and a variety of colors. I'm obsessed. Want it? Click here!


Scented Lavender Candle




















I love candles. I might have a candle addiction??? This lavender candle smells amazing and will help anyone relax during the hectic holiday season. I love the Mrs. Meyer's brand. HomeGoods also has a great selection! Want it? Click here!


Yoga Classes













 I try to take a yoga class at least once a week. A class pack of classes is the perfect gift for anyone who needs to slow their mind after a long day at work. It's also a great way to stay flexible! This is not only a great gift for a friend, but for yourself too!


Massage Gift Certificate
 














I've never met someone who doesn't love a good massage! This is a great gift for workaholics who need 30 or more minutes without the ability to check their phone ;)


Remember, the holidays are a time to celebrate and be with the ones you love. Don't stress too much over gifts. The best gifts come from the heart.

Thanks for reading,