My passions lie in the beauty industry (since 1998) & the Craft industry (since childhood, but truly re-ignited in 2010).
Beauty & Craft inspiration, product reviews, and how-to's, as well as general life stuff..
I know these type of blogs aren't for everyone, but I love seeing what others received. Therefor I also like to share what we got each year. It's kind of a tradition at this point. But, if this blog isn't for you, no worries, just skip it and I'll "see ya" for the next one!
I got him a Dremel Tool, and additional accessories but he already had it put away before I took pictures. I also got him State of Decay 1 & 2 for PC, he has them on Xbox One and really liked them. As well as 2 new pair of pants, thicker and better for winter van life.
From my Mom he received $100 cash, which we used for the propane stove he wanted, and some wall panels for the canopy.
From my sister & family he got a bunch of different candies & snacks to try, some Skittles beverages, and a bottle of espresso alcohol:
From hubby I got:
Wet 'n Wild's Alice in Wonderland & Scooby Doo Collections. As well as some new nail polish.
From Mom & Sis and Family I got:
Clothes, a new tumbler, books, a Bridgerton stamp set, & wine!
Brunilda, the van got some items too, they just haven't arrived yet-
a new tire cover, this cheap one lasted over a year, but it's been torn for a few months now
a where we've been map (USA) for the side window
blackout vinyl, we have this and finished one (of 3) windows Christmas day
window tint, for the driving windows (front and rear)
The last item came in early and was put in on Christmas day... a new mattress!
We had a traditional Christmas dinner this year at Mom's house. We opened presents, chatted, played Rummy, and ate until well into the evening! It was a nice time.
How were your holidays? Let me know in the comments below!
Slade, a wealthy Texan, and his daughter are under attack. But why, and from whom?
He hires Elizabeth as a bodyguard for his daughter, and while they try to figure out the who, sparks fly.
Christmas Bodyguard is well written, and I had several suspects in my head but never did figure it out.
The characters are well fleshed out, and all of them are easy to visualize. The story flows well, and it's an easy read.
Someone's after wealthy Texan Slade Caulder's daughter. Desperate to keep her safe while he determines the motive, the widowed father hires a bodyguard for Abbey. A female bodyguard, with the training to protect the girl and an understanding of a willful teenager who keeps trying to outsmart her. Elizabeth Walker is the perfect combination of caring and toughness for her job. But as the holidays approach, the stalker's threats escalate. And Slade finds himself willing to risk everything to keep his Christmas bodyguard by his side forever.
This review sums it up well:
I was quickly drawn into the story which starts with a father teaching his daughter to drive. Then, fasten your seatbelt as the story takes off! Slade is a man who started his own business and is raising his daughter alone after the death of his wife five years earlier. Now, it seems there is someone with nefarious intent to bring real harm to Abby, Slade’s daughter, or is the real target the father? Once you start reading the book you will become so engrossed in the high tension and captivating turn of events, you won’t want to put the book down until you reach the last page! I couldn’t believe how fast the story moves. It almost felt like a slow roller coaster that then surprises the riders by picking up the pace which is off the scale. Then the author introduces the personal bodyguards hired for both the daughter and the father which brings a whole new aspect to the tale. Try as they might a couple of the characters are finding themselves strongly attracted to each other when they least expect this to occur. While the book is older, the story is solid and riveting! Don’t miss reading the book that will take you on an adventure with twists and turns you might not see coming!
I had the physical copy of the book, but passed it on to a lady I met from Netherlands, at a camp ground. She had seen me reading, and we struck up a conversation. In so she said she'd just finished the last Dutch book she'd brought, and didn't really want to read on her Kindle yet.
Yuletide Baby was a cute, easy read. The story was simple, and it was well written.
It's a Love Inspired story about an abandon baby on Christmas Eve. What will the pastor do with the infant?
Shawn O'Riley is shocked to find a baby girl abandoned at his church on Christmas Eve. He's a pastor and a cowboy not a daddy! Haunted by family tragedy, he's not sure he can risk his heart to baby Noelle or to anyone else. But he needs help. Experienced foster mom Heather Lewis was anticipating a quiet holiday. When Shawn pops up at her door, she's happy to show him the ropes of baby care but isn't prepared for the way he melts the walls around her heart. Can Shawn and Heather give each other the best Christmas gift of all family and love?
3) Christmas Homestead, Kara Tate
I picked this one up on a whim, for $3 at Ollie's. It definitely reads like a Hallmark movie, which was the intent. I still enjoyed the book, but I haven't seen the movie.
A small town inn owner/mayor has to deal with a huge movie production, and the actors taking over the town to film their Christmas movie. Sparks fly and tempers flare. It's easily a one or 2 day read, and was enjoyable, especially at this time of year.
Treat yourself to books inspired by Hallmark Christmas movies. Enjoy a heartwarming, feel-good story…and find out what happens after the movie ends. A Hollywood movie star. A small-town single dad. A magical romance. Christmas is almost here, but Jessica has other things on her mind. Being the producer as well as the star of her new movie is a big challenge, and her co-star ex-boyfriend doesn’t seem to be quite over her. Still, she has the project carefully planned out, and the location is perfect: Homestead, Iowa. Matt, the mayor of Homestead, owns the inn where Jessica and her co-star are staying. He barely knows who Jessica is, even though his young daughter, Sophie, is one of her best fans. Christmas became even more important to Matt after his wife passed away, and he isn’t happy about the Hollywood production interfering with the community’s traditions. After Jessica makes more than one faux pas in her first encounter with Matt, she tries to prove that she isn’t just a Hollywood stereotype. Gradually, she grows enamored with Homestead...and with him, which was definitely not part of her plans. Matt’s falling for her, too, but their two worlds clash. Can an innkeeper and an A-list actress really hope for a romantic future together? This sweet story includes a free original recipe for Snowflake Cherry Pie.
This was the Google Play (Books) purchase. I really liked the book I read previously (Snowbound at Christmas) and mention in that blog that I was glad I picked the book up and would look for the others. It was only like $8 USD for the trio on Google, so it was an easy yes.
I like how the characters are all still present in each others stories, but the main focus on the book is the lead couple. Each story was heartwarming, and full of mishaps and community. I really like these and will try to figure out the order in which they go to read the rest.
I have already read Snowbound, but it's still hard to figure Ethan (It Happened At Christmas) as their brother, they're all just so very different.
The Trouble with Christmas Resort developer Madison Lane spoiled a deal that would turn quaint Christmas, Colorado, into a tourist's winter wonderland. The citizens want her fired, but her company sends Madison to the small town to restore the holiday cheer. For Sheriff Gage McBride, no hotshot executive from New York City is going to destroy the dreams of the people he loves. But in just a few days, Madison causes more trouble than he's had to deal with all year. He can't decide if she's naughty or nice, but one thing is for certain-Christmas will never be the same again . . .
Christmas in July Grace Flaherty had given up hope of ever seeing her husband again after he went missing in combat. So when he strides through the door of her bakery, she can hardly believe her eyes. But her happily-ever-after is going to take some effort-because Jack has no memory of his family. All Jack Flaherty remembers about Christmas is that he couldn't wait to leave town. Now he's a local hero with a wife and son he doesn't know. Even as he struggles to rekindle the romance with his wife, he knows in his heart what he wants: a second chance at love.
It Happened at Christmas Free-spirited activist Skylar Davis hides out in Christmas, hoping to forget the reckless actions of her past. All goes well . . . until she comes face-to-face with one of her mistakes: the town's gorgeous young mayor. Ethan O'Connor is about to move from small-town politics to the Colorado State Senate, but if word ever got out about the night he and Skye spent together, the scandal could cripple his career. Yet as he starts his campaign, Ethan finds that, like the town of Christmas itself, he can't get Skye out of his head . . . or his heart.
I loved these stories SO MUCH!!!! The first story got me glued to the "pages", the second was a bit emotional and I wanted to kill Maria myself, but I loved Skye the most . She was definitely my favourite character in all three books -- as a friend in the first two and the main character in the last. She is a bit weird and quirky but so adorable . Loved her. Now it's on to the next book. i am hooked.
I loved everything about this these books. The humor, sometimes mystery, how the town got involved in everyone's life trying to help them. They kept your interest and you could not put the book down. You get caught up in Madison, Grace and Skylar's life and you so want them to have a happy ending.
I would recommend these books to everyone. I look forward to reading more books by Debbie Mason.
While a little cheesy with the letters to Santa, it is a cute book.
Lindy had a great job, an awesome best friend, and a great boyfriend... Until the friends look for new apartments, and Lindy finds out her best friend and boyfriend are together. So she goes home for the holidays to get away from it all, and make some decisions.
The characters are great, you really get to know them all. Lindy is a likable heroine, and you really feel for her with the loss of not only her BF but also her long time friend, such a betrayal. The hero is also a likable, fun character.
It's a fun Christmas story that's easily read in an afternoon.
Lindy Carmichael isn’t feeling particularly joyful when she returns home to Wenatchee, Washington, for Christmas. The man she thought was “the one” has cheated on her with her best friend, and she feels completely devoid of creativity in her graphic-design job. Not even carolers or Christmas cookies can cheer her up—but Lindy’s mother, Ellen, remembers an old tradition that might lift her daughter’s spirits.
Reading through a box of childhood letters to Santa and reminiscing about what she’d wished for as a young girl may be just the inspiration Lindy needs. With Ellen’s encouragement, she decides to write a new letter to Santa, one that will encourage her to have faith and believe just as she’d done all those years ago. Little does Lindy know that this exercise in gratitude will cause her wishes to unfold before her in miraculous ways. And, thanks to some fateful twists of Christmas magic—especially an unexpected connection with a handsome former classmate—Lindy ultimately realizes that there is truly no place like home for the holidays.
What have you read recently? Let me know in the comments below!
For this blog I decided to do our Christmas gift tags! There were so many holiday crafts in Design Space, but with limited space and time until the holiday, gift tags sounded perfect!
I then chose a font to add the names, and sized the tags down to fit within the Joys parameters:
Using the images from Cricut access made this especially easy.
Once the design work was done, I switched over to my phone to connect to the Joy. (My laptop has Bluetooth, and sometimes I like to work in Design Space from there, however I like to cut from my phone.)
This material size had to be set, at 13in. It's a smart material, so no mat is needed.
What the screen prompt looks like, for tool changes:
You'll know when it's time because the machine will stop and the screen on your device will alert you to change the tool.
In progress:
All done:
This project from start to finish, plus blog writing took about an hour and 30min. Most of that time was waiting for the draw portion of the job to be done, and I did other tasks in the craft room during that time.
Do you have a beauty lover on your list this year?
Let me help!
As the holiday season approaches, it's time to start thinking about what to gift your loved ones. If you have a beauty enthusiast in your life, you know how much they love trying new products and keeping up with the latest trends. To help you find the perfect gift, I have curated the ultimate beauty product gift guide. From skincare to makeup and haircare, these gifts are sure to delight every beauty lover.
1. Facial roller set: Facial rollers have become increasingly popular in the beauty community for their various skincare benefits. This set typically includes a jade or rose quartz roller, a gua sha tool, and sometimes a mini facial oil. Not only will this gift promote relaxation, but it will also enhance their skincare routine.
2. Makeup brush set: High-quality makeup brushes are essential for any makeup lover. Opt for a set that includes all the brushes they need for a flawless application. Look for a set that includes a foundation brush, a blending brush, an eyeshadow brush, and a powder brush. Bonus points if the brushes come in a stylish and functional carrying case.
3. Skincare subscription box: Subscription boxes are the gifts that keep on giving. Treat your beauty lover to a monthly box filled with skincare products tailored to their specific needs. These boxes often include cleansers, serums, moisturizers, and sometimes even sheet masks. It's a great way for them to discover new brands and products.
4. Haircare gift set: Help your friend or family member achieve salon-worthy hair with a luxurious haircare gift set. Look for a set that includes a shampoo, conditioner, and a leave-in treatment or hair mask. Bonus points if the set includes products suited for their specific hair type, such as a set for color-treated hair or frizzy hair.
5. Makeup palette: A makeup enthusiast can never have too many eyeshadow palettes. Look for a palette with a variety of shades and finishes, ensuring they have options for both everyday and glamorous looks. Consider their preferred color scheme and preferences when choosing the perfect palette.
6. Luxury skincare set: Treat your loved one to some high-end skincare products with a luxury skincare set. Opt for a set from a renowned brand that includes their best-selling products. It's a great way for them to indulge in some self-care and experience the benefits of premium skincare.
7. Perfume: A signature scent is a must-have for any beauty lover. Find out their favorite fragrance notes or brands and gift them a bottle of their dream perfume. Alternatively, you can opt for a miniature perfume set, allowing them to try a variety of scents and find their new favorite.
8. Beauty tools: Upgrade their beauty tool collection with some innovative and high-quality tools. Consider gifting them a high-tech facial cleansing device, a microcurrent facial toning device, or a heated eyelash curler. These tools will elevate their beauty routine and give them salon-like results at home.
9. Nail polish set: If your beauty lover enjoys doing their own manicures, a nail polish set is the perfect gift. Look for a set that includes a variety of shades and finishes, ensuring they have options for every occasion. Add a top coat and base coat for a complete set that will keep their nails looking salon-worthy.
10. Virtual makeup class: For a unique and educational experience, gift them a virtual makeup class. Many beauty professionals and makeup artists offer virtual classes where they teach different techniques and create makeup looks step by step. It's a fun way for them to learn new skills and elevate their makeup game.
With this ultimate beauty product gift guide, you are sure to find the perfect gift for every beauty lover in your life. Remember, it's the thought that counts, so choose something that aligns with their preferences and shows how much you care. Happy gifting!
Have you got a crafty individual on your list this year? Let me help you out, no matter the budget! Myself, and most crafters I know, aren't into just one craft medium.
Because of that, you can't go wrong with a gift card...
But those are kind of boring, right?
Here's my top 5 gift ideas, from most expensive, at around $100 USD, to least, at roughly $20:
1) Cricut Joy Bundle ($99 and up, I suggest this one (LINKED AND PICTURED BELOW) as it comes with so many extras, for $6 more.)
Make more for less! Cricut Joy is our ultra-compact smart cutting machine for fun and functional everyday projects like cards, decals & labels to organize anything and everything. Bundle also includes materials, tools, and a monthly subscription to Cricut Access (first month included, auto-renews thereafter).* The subscription is a way to enhance your making experience and unlock more pre-designed projects, more images, and more fonts. Additionally, you'll enjoy exclusive discounts and priority customer support. Works with free Design Space® app.
Cricut Joy machine
Premium Fine-Point Blade + Housing
Fine Point Pen, Black (0.4 mm)
StandardGrip Mat, 4.5 in x 6.5 in (11.4 cm x 16.5 cm)
Welcome card
Power adapter
50 free, pre-designed projects in Design Space
Material for a practice cut
Bundled with:
**Only for Cricut Joy
Cricut Joy™ Card Mat, 4.5" x 6.25"
Cricut Joy™ Insert Cards, Sensei Sampler 4.5" x 6.25"
Smart Vinyl™ Permanent, Glossy, Black - 5.5" x 48"
Smart Vinyl™ Removable, Matte, White - 5.5" x 48"
Cricut Joy™ Smart Iron-On™, Red, 5.5" x 48"
Cricut Joy™ Smart Iron-On™ Glitter, White, 5.5" x 19"
Monthly subscription to Cricut Access Standard (First month included)*
The current sale price is unbeatable! Y'all know how much I like mine, especially the portability while still having a TON of features. It's great for card makers, scrapbookers, and anyone who wants to make personalized items.
Are you sick of digging around your drawers for your favorite markers? An angled marker storage shelf and five sizable compartments lets you easily store any marker. This marker storage shelf is the best option for the new style of Spectrum Noir™ markers. You can also group your markers by color family to make it easier to find just the right shade.
What Marker Nook option is best for you?
Marker Nook Standard: Perfect for desks or on top of cabinets next to other Stamp-n-Storage standard sized products.
Marker Nook for IKEA: Fits inside the IKEA® Kallax (and other cube shelving units), and works great next to other Marker Holders by Stamp-n-Storage.
The Marker Nook (Standard & for IKEA) is designed to hold the following quantities of markers:
Small round markers such as Copic® Ciao, Stampin' Up! ®, Memento™, and Distress™: 220
Medium markers such as Copic® Sketch: 180
Larger bodied markers such as Standard Copic®, Spectrum Noir™, and Prismacolor®: 130
No matter the craft, from drawing, to card making, to coloring, and beyond, storage for pens and markers is an essential for any craft room/craft space. I liked this one because it takes up very little space, and keeps the markers mostly flat, which is the suggested storage on most brands.
Widen your artistic horizons with the dual-tip marker design! Choose the brush tip for sweeping, calligraphic strokes or quickly color in large areas with the wide chisel tip. What's more, now Ohuhu replacement brush tips is available, so you can easily replace the worn-out tips to ensure consistent and precise lines whenever you create. The only limit is your imagination.
Seamless Blending
Say goodbye to unsightly splotches and uneven coloring. Our high-quality ink seamlessly blends to create beautiful, professional-grade artwork, perfect for both beginners and experienced artists; Also, no more frustrating smudges or wet ink ruining your work. Our alcohol-based ink dries quickly, ensuring that your art is always clean, crisp, smudge-free, and ready to display.
Draw Like a Pro
You won't believe how well the ink flows and you can be sure the colors hold their vibrancy, even once they've dried.
Find Colors Fast
Our markers come with color-coded caps to prevent tip dry-out and make color identification a breeze, keeping your creative flow uninterrupted.
I like Ohuhu for the quality markers, and affordable price. They have sets from 24-320 in the Honolulu B Series, so something for just about anyone. I prefer to have a fine tip and brush tip vs the chisel. For me that brush tip is just much easier to work with. I use mine when coloring stamped images, in coloring books, on cards, and scrapbook layouts, and so much more.
Made of high quality oxford fabric material, wear resistant and waterproof
Detachable adjustable shoulder strap and padded tote handle for more comfortable carry.
Inside with 2 metal stands to keep the storage bag in good shape
Large capacity, top and front zippered pocket for storage your sketchbook, art palette, brush, pencils kit, etc,
The roomy main compartment can hold coloring book, paint brush, highlighter, graphite/ charcoal/ colored pencils, markers, coloring chart, solid cake and other art and craft supplies that you want to carry with you
Dimension: 47cm x 28cm x 25cm/ 18.5" x 11" x 10", weight: 1350gr
Foldable, large capacity art tools and craft organizer bag a must have item for artist on the go
Whether the crafter in your life is short on space, travels frequently, or attends social craft events a storage bag for all their must haves is a great gift idea. This one comes in a variety of colors (my favorite is purple) and has just the right amount of separate storage space for several projects.
Optimized for size, power and precision, Fiskars® PowerCut(TM) Shears (9 in.) feature innovative, patent-pending, strength-enhancing curved blades for up to 2X more cutting power. Premium, heavy-duty, stainless steel blades power through thick materials such as cardboard, cork, decorative metals, and leather with fewer snips, making these shears just the right tool for bigger home décor DIY projects. A serrated edge makes it easier to grip slippery materials, while enlarged, ergonomic handles include Softgrip® touchpoints for enhanced comfort and control. Additionally, an included sheath helps protect these innovative blades during storage and travel.
An absolute must for any crafter is a great pair of scissors! My absolute favorite are the Fiskars Power Cut. You can easily adjust the tension of the blades, and they're comfortable in my hand. They cut extremely well.
Is there an item you'd suggest for the list? Let me know in the comments below, or tag me on social media.
