A HAPPY NEW YEAR 2014

Can you believe it, 2014? We all ask, where did the years go? Each new year, there is so much hope and promise, we all seek it, we all feel it.  What a gift! Such is the toast to the New Year!

Inevitably, we look back to the last year, how far did we evolve, dig deeper into what matters most for us?  I, too, have had the fortunate benefit of hindsight to appreciate the past and plan for the future.  However, a caveat, planning is good, but not enough. Yes, not enough!  One must execute these plans, and that is the hard part.

One step I have taken is to first make plans, then one small step at a time, find a way for those plans to happen. It is sort of like planning Christmas, you find some gifts for those you love, then you piece them together and create themes, anything of definite interest for the recipient, and there you go!  You have just executed a plan! And the gift receiver's big smile becomes the giver's best gift of all :)

The new year becomes a welcome building block. Try it, piece those blocks together, make some plans, and dream, envision, plan and plot your next move for the new year!

Year 2013 saw volatile economic change, severe storms, dry summers, budding roses, a changing of the guard on the world stage. Large or small, plans have power. Christmas offers us the salvation of mankind, the birth of Jesus and forgiveness of sin inherent to all mankind. It is good news, it is beauty in its purest form.  

Christmas sets the stage for new year plans, pure and bright, starry night! What is in store for you? What plans have you made, what will you build upon for 2014?

For me, I am happy to know now what my tennis game needs, it was strong yet shaky with holes in my playing. I have learned in 2013 what needs to be done, how to get from a particular kind of playing to a more true, steady game that packs punches of power and smooth finesse into each stroke of the ball. I am excited to see what 2014 brings!

And to stay healthy!  No matter how well you try, life can happen.  We have had losses with those we love, and hold dear to our hearts the moments we share together with those in our midst.  Plan to help those in need, to let them know they are in your thoughts and prayers, that you value them, their desires and wishes!

Building the intellect is a great goal, read more!  I plan to carve out 30 minutes in my day to read a book. It has been a while and I miss it. Read!

Also, tend to those loose ends in your life.  Like a pair of frayed pants, get those scissors out and cut off those jagged ends, your pants (life) will be the better for it! Get rid of unnecessary clutter, force yourself to recognize an investment from a superficial whim.

Probably my most important goal is to listen to others. Really focus. Consider their orientation and not your own when conversing. Seek to understand.

                                          And New Year's Eve? Who knows!

It is important to raise a glass and "take a sip of kindness yet to Auld Lang Syne!"

Lyrics~

                                       

Be beautiful and celebrate life, responsibly, of course!

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2014 !!!

A TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS

Each year, in our family we discuss the Christmas tree, how to decorate? Give it a theme? All silver or red, just one color, a simple palette?  

But each time. myself leading the pack, one by one we unpack the carefully wrapped ornaments from the year before, and we remark, oh, how cute! Or, remember this one? Or, ugh, I look so bad (from a second grade picture, eyes half shut, bad haircut, big smile pasted on a Christmas ornament for all to see).

Got to admit, the silver theme is SOOO pretty, maybe we will do it this year. Tough to commit!

What did we do?  We compromised! Satin Christmas balls scattered throughout, toys hung for memories of yore~

On a different note, the Christmas season I have noticed does fall mostly on the women in the household. And that is all right!  After all, we are the ones who shop, we love shopping mostly, so it makes sense for us to take over and just do it!

In a Twitter tweet, I mentioned that a few days ago, lots of women were wearing glasses, myself included! I think Thursday the 19th of December we were all so busy that even putting in contact lenses was too great a task, just relax and get the job done! I first noticed on television, then running a few errands there were others out there like me, we even silently looked at one another as if we understood.

On the ABC morning television show Good Morning America, a news commentator asked actress and mother Meryl Streep if she celebrates a traditional Christmas. Meryl's answer? The tradition is that I do all the work. She said it sweetly, wearing her glasses, and I could certainly empathize with her honest  response. 

I think each year, women and Moms should unite and wear their glasses on December 19th, 6 days before Christmas! Throw in the towel of decorum and declare that we are busy, no time to fuss, we are doing this for YOU!!!

Then, when the day is done, kick back, smile, take a shower (Crabtree & Evelyn bath products are nice), have a glass of red, let out a deep sigh, then plan for the next days ahead.

A traditional Christmas?  Each year, by virtue of the fact that we celebrate Christmas, IS a tradition! The themed tree or one filled with toys and pictures, a theme in and of itself really, becomes the tradition.  

And Moms?  The ladies, please?  WE are the most traditional of ALL!

Merry, Merry and HO HO HO!!!

CRABTREE & EVELYN CHRISTMAS

 

I have a deep loyalty to Crabtree & Evelyn, a London, England based healthcare, lifestyle and beauty company that has been in the United States since I can remember from the 1980s. 

It was also the very first company to affiliate with my blog, and I am forever grateful for this partnership! Let Crabtree & Evelyn create a lifestyle of beauty and originality for you too this Christmas and for years to come.

   

Step into the wonder~

50% Off Holiday Gifts from Crabtree & Evelyn

Shop Crabtree & Evelyn Gift Sets, 50% off!! They last through the winter! Look at that gorgeous packaging~

A favorite of mine is the La Source Collection, Bring the Spa Experience Home with La Source!

Pamper yourself or give as a gift La Source, from the Crabtree & Evelyn website~ 

Beneath the craggy cliffs of coastal England, Scotland and Wales lies a wealth of botanical treasures. These underwater algae, mineral salts and seaweeds offer remarkable benefits for the skin. We’ve harnessed their restorative powers and paired them with an array of pampering accessories. So whenever you need to escape the stresses of daily life, you can create your own spa-like experience at home. It’s the ultimate 'me time'.

the Craggy cliffs, courtesy Crabtree & Evelyn, Scotland

How about the La Source Manicure Set? An online exclusive!

Manicure Gift Set " Fancy a nail salon on the go?   Then look no further than our La Source Manicure Gift Set, which has everything you need for gorgeously glossy nails and perfectly pampered hands -- all conveniently tucked away inside a sea-blue travel case. "

A personal favorite of mine is the Argan Pomegranate Collection~

I love the feel and aroma of the hand cream, it evokes loving memories of being with my family, on a warm fall day, bright sunshine, hope and promise in the air.

What does fragrance say to you?

Think about it, for a few minutes.

Here is the Crabtree & Evelyn Citron Collection. I have tried these in the morning, and the fragrance is so lively it will certainly wake you up!  Get set for the day, indulge!!

AND, be sure to help someone today, remember, they do not even have  to know :)

MORE PROMOTIONS~

Special Offer on Crabtree & Evelyn Award Winning 100g Hand Therapy - 3 for $40 (Savings of 33%)

Over 40% Off our Customer Favorite 500ml Value Sizes

50% Off Holiday Gifts from Crabtree & Evelyn

 AND,

ESTEE LAUDER CHRISTMAS 2013

updated January 1, 2014

gift with purchase!
NOW through January 15th!

Each year since I was a teenager, Estee Lauder beauty delivers!  Especially at Christmastime. 

Let's get started, I have had so much fun putting this post together for YOU, enjoy and be creative! Read through and really consider your needs, your family and friends this Christmas and holiday season.

This post takes you to Lord and Taylor, which accepts all major forms of credit, including PayPal!

GIFT WITH PURCHASE OFFER HAPPENING NOW!!

 

                                   ~Yours for free with any Estee Lauder $45 purchase~

~offer good now through January 15th or until supplies last~

For EYES !!! !!!
Two sets of eye makeup beauty offers that combines everything you ask for in quick, beautiful Estee Lauder eyes!

The Decadent Truffle~

Estee Lauder Delectable Eyes: Decadent Tru...
Create decadent eyes with the most-wanted shades for a bold; smoky eye look. This exclu... [More]

Price: 36.50

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AND, SMOLDERING CHOCOLATES! ~

Estee Lauder Delectable Eyes: Smoldering C...
A subtle; smoky eye is smoldering day and night. This exclusive gift collection include... [More]

Price: 36.50

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What is it about Christmas that just makes you crave chocolate?  To keep the calories down , I drink a half cup of coffee, it works!

As a young girl, I would put a suggestion on my Christmas list for beauty products, and my very first discovery of Estee Lauder was her mascara, still a great favorite of mine!

Memories are important, they span over time to exhibit growth and appreciation.  

Such is the encompassing aura of a lasting fragrance. Try her White Linen, it is crisp and bright, perfect for the tennis court!

Here is a great special for you, White Linen!

Estee Lauder White Linen Gift Set
Give her the cool; refreshing fragrance that transcends the seasons. Limited-time colle... [More]

Price: 85.00

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OR, for a smokey, mysterious Christmas, try~

Estee Lauder Youth-Dew Perfumed Body Creme
Youth-Dew is simply the sexiest fragrance ever. Absolutely captivating; with opulent fl... [More]

Price: 35.00

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Body lotion with fragrance will last all day, try it!

What else does Estee Lauder offer?  So much beauty!  Another gift I received from my mom, and I still have as refills are available, is the zodiac pressed powder compact! So pretty! They come with each specific horoscope, here is Scorpio~

Estee Lauder Scorpio Compact
Independent; ambitious and hardworking; you can achieve anything you set your mind to. ... [More]

Price: 49.50

Buy Now

Especially in winter, I really get into foundation.

How about it??

Try~

Estee Lauder Invisible Fluid Makeup
See no makeup. Feel no makeup. First-ever IntuiTone; technology guarantees your true-to... [More]

Price: 36.00

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This incredibly lightweight makeup does not clog pores, applies evenly, is oil-free!  Lasts a long time, on the face, in the bottle.

For a medium consistency with light diffusing properties, here is the foundation for you!  Contains SPF 8~

Estee Lauder Lucidity Light-Diffusing Make...
FAST FACTS - Medium coverage - Natural finish - SPF 8 protection. For a radiantly perfe... [More]

Price: 37.00

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For a dewy type of finish, this whipped gel cream is for YOU!!  I just love this consistency in the winter months, wearing it is like defeating the elements, being your own person in the chill of winter! ~

Estee Lauder Re-Nutriv Intensive Lifting M...
Re-Nutriv Intensive Lifting Makeup provides the perfect finish for your Re-Nutriv skinc... [More]

Price: 75.00

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If you like a PRIMER  before makeup application, or alone too, this is a wonderfully light, textured primer form Estee Lauder~

Estee Lauder Illuminating Perfecting Primer
Prime for perfection. This targeted primer adds instant brightness and radiance so make... [More]

Price: 34.00

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How about a FOUNDATION BRUSH?  This is a unique makeup accessory to keep that foundation application even and flawless.  it also keeps your fingers off the bottle and your face, minimizing the spread of bacteria, something we really have to consider these days~

Estee Lauder Foundation Brush 1
The ultimate foundation brush for a flawless finish every time. Provides smooth; even a... [More]

Price: 34.00

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Each week, wash your makeup brushes in a light solution of soap and water, let them air dry, for some it only takes a few minutes to return to original fluffy texture!

OR, Estee Lauder has a brush cleaner!  A simple reminder just by looking at it that your brushes need a cleaning!

Estee Lauder Makeup Brush Cleanser
This professional cleanser gently and thoroughly cleans; sanitizes and conditions makeu... [More]

Price: 15.50

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The extra here is that with clean brushes, it is like you have been shopping all over again! It is like a new set of makeup utensils to keep you gorgeous!

Dress up with nail color!

Estee Lauder Pure Color Nail Lacquer
Turn your fingertips into fashion statements with Pure Color Nail Lacquer by Tom Pecheu... [More]

Price: 20.00

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Estee Lauder nail lacquer stays on for 7 days for me, use a base and top coat!

Here are some terrific metallics by Tom Pecheux!!!!

Estee Lauder Pure Color Nail Lacquer
Turn your fingertips into fashion statements with Pure Color Nail Lacquer by Tom Pecheu... [More]

Price: 20.00

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AND, you need a lipstick to go with that nail color!  This deep red frost has staying power and gorgeous Christmas color! ~

Estee Lauder Pure Color Long Lasting Lipstick
Magnificent color. Magnified brilliance. Color that looks and feels so incredible; it l... [More]

Price: 26.00

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I JUST LOVE ESTEE LAUDER!

Okay, let's keep going! ~

MORE Estee Lauder LUSH LIPS, CARAMEL NUDES!

Christmas gift set~

Estee Lauder Lush Lips: Caramel Nudes
Create the perfect nude lips with seductive shades of Barely Nude; Tempting Tearose and... [More]

Price: 35.00

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More great lip glosses!! A set for Christmas!!

Estee Lauder Lush Lip Glosses
Love this lipgloss. 6 craveworthy shades of Pure Color Gloss: Pink Kiss; Tempting Tearo... [More]

Price: 32.50

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                          Be gorgeous this Christmas with Estee Lauder, guaranteed!

BEST HOLIDAY GIFTS FOR KIDS!

Okay, we know about the toys, electronics, bikes, dolls, the list goes on and on.  Santa and his elves are already quite busy!  What else can we surprise our little people with? After all, children get smarter every year, how do we as adults keep up??

Try an event. yes, something to do. You can group an item with an event.  Give this a try~

Surprise your young ones with lessons!  More, your child asks? But these will be for fun, you answer with a sly smile.

I.  Give the gift of tennis lessons!  

Kids can start by the age of three. Get your tot out on the courts, call around to see if the smaller "QuickStart" court is available.  The big thing is to simply get your children out on a court, it is sociable for mom and the kids! Click here for a great link describing what "QuickStart" tennis really is! For kids 10 and under :)

Lessons can be costly, so I suggest you try several avenues that will get you where you want to go.  You can call your township recreation offices to see what is available at discounted prices, also your local public tennis clubs to see what their terms are, price compare, ask questions and specifically ask if there are any scholarship funds, sometimes local rotary clubs will offer scholarships as well.

Besides tennis lessons, you can supplement that gift with tennis racquets, balls, really cute outfits, for all ages!  Lacoste has quality clothing that will last and look great on and off the courts. 

Shop perfect playful looks for boys & girls at LACOSTE

II.  Give the gift of swimming lessons! 

Same thing applies as above, check your local clubs, schools, governmental agencies for swimming lessons and discounts. I did this for my children since the age of three.  Lessons are well worth the effort, plus give Mom and Dad terrific memories of their children starting to learn and appreciate fitness and social camaraderie.

III. Give the gift of ART! MUSIC!!

Create a masterpiece, do a drawing with your children,a painting, record some music, sing!!  You get the picture!

IV. Take a family trip!  

Give the gift of Groupon~

Groupon:From $45/night with Two Water-Park Passes at Flamingo Waterpark Resort in Kissimmee, FL

And if you stay local, shop local to support your community!

Find the Best Daily Deal in Your Neighborhood  

V. Cutlery!  

Yes, teach your kids that fine dining starts young! Try the George Jensen Family Set of four for the holiday~

Georg Jensen Twist Family Child's Cutlery ...
The Twist Family Child's Cutlery 4 piece set is designed by internationally established... [More]

Price: 90.00

Sale: 36.00

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Cook, too!!

VI.  Give your kids a BOOK! Send them on a reading adventure~

Here is the children's book that I wrote and illustrated, for ages 6 to 10. Of course it can be read to kids of ALL ages :)  Using the pen name C. Avery Brookes, I enjoyed every moment in creating the story of Sea Breezes, Salt Air and the book's main characters, the Bunny Cousins. You can find it at Amazon~

softcover on sale at $6.26

Enjoy the Bunny Cousins this Christmas, jump into their world of fun and excitement !! !! !! !!

For that personalized touch, be original and create your own story!

These are quality, lasting stories created to instill a lasting memory for you and your kids for years to come, these are wonderful gifts for all kids, your own, nieces and nephews, grandchildren, a special child you have taken under your wing.

AND VII. the best gift of all~

GIVE YOUR CHILDREN A BIG HUG! TWICE!  no, THREE TIMES!!!

* Merry Christmas! *

BEST HOLIDAY GIFTS FOR MEN

And here are some top holiday choices for the men in your life! Each year I wonder what to get for the guys in my life, usually they don't want a thing!  And that is fine, there are other ways to give gifts during this holiday season. There is the gift of a phone call, the gift of a quiet prayer on their behalf, the gift of sending a funny text, what a surprise!  You would be quite taken from your element to receive a random note from a loved one from afar.

The holidays are all right to do your best, the spending aspect certainly does get out of hand, but as long as you keep your perspective, stay in budget, and consider quality for years to come, you are doing fine.  Remember the investment aspect, this is crucial to enjoying the holidays and thinking of your loved ones too!

So, some top picks for the men in your life you say?

Here it goes~

Back to Clarins!


Men don't like too much change in their lives, so give him something he already knows~

 

ClarinsMen Smooth Shave

He may also like~

ClarinsMen After Shave Soother

AND...

 

  ClarinsMen Active Hand Care

Or, you could get him this mini set for $40~

ClarinsMen Men’s Grooming Essentials Gift Set

~and something for yourself!

What else for that elusive man in your life, you ask....

You know we like Ted Baker, of London, so here's something for you to give, great for Dads, too~

AVALANS Nep herringbone cap

This cap comes in charcoal, too. For only $65, this cap will keep him protected form chilling air, and last for years to come, invest in your guy!

If you really want to get him something lasting, you can~ Shop Men's Jackets & Coats from Ted Baker .

** To ensure current offers, I will be updating this post for your holiday shopping convenience, so if I find more Ted Baker for you, it'll be in here!  It sells so fast! **

For John Hardy lovers~

I love cuff links for men, nothing like a unique pair for your holiday events!



These sterling silver cufflinks are from the John Hardy BAMBOO Collection, the Woven Half Barrel cufflinks!

For more John Hardy, shop here for~ Top Ten Selling Products for Men at John Hardy.

AND, check out these~

Anyone shop at Lord & Taylor??

Save 40% on already reduced Men's Sportswear at Lord & Taylor! Valid 12/3/13-12/9/13. SHOP NOW!

Get him something from GNC!

Check back again soon for updates, happy shopping, get him quality, invest in your guy!