Back from Ixtapa to Reality and Year 49!

Happy Belated New Year to all of our blog readers! The last few weeks of December were crazy busy! So busy in fact that I ended up sick right after the New Year. I took a few days of rest in hopes of nipping it in the bud because I new I had an exciting getaway coming up and I wanted to make sure I was in tip top shape! It worked and I was ready and excited for my trip to Ixtapa, Mexico!

It had been several years since I had traveled to Ixtapa so I was really excited to get back there and check out the resorts and all Ixtapa had to offer. Most often when we travel to destinations to experience them as our clients will, we travel with industry partners. I know it sounds crazy but it is hard work! We usually see several resorts each day, experience a few tours and there isn't much down time to spend with your spouse or family. As I was headed to Ixtapa for a week I knew it was a great opportunity to have my husband Bart, tag along with me. He's easy to travel with and is a great assistant! It's so nice to have someone to carry my bags, notebooks and extra camera batteries when going from property to property ;-).

Here's a photo montage of some of the highlights of the wonderful experiences Ixtapa has to offer along with a little advice and a few tidbits to get the most of your vacation experience. It would be entirely impossible to include everything in one blog, so I'll spread it out a bit and do resort spotlights on the individual properties we saw. In the meantime I'll be adding photos to the albums on our facebook page so be sure to watch for those! The internet is such a great resource, but we love to have a place to share with you our personal photos taken from our own travels. We hate surprises that arise when the reality of a resort or destination doesn't match what's shown on the internet.  So, rest assured our facebook photos are the real deal!

We had an early morning (6:20 yikes!) departure and I don't necessarily count the flights as part of my vacation (although, I really believe traveling Sun Country Airlines is the way to go and their 'Hometown' service beats everyone else out there!) My vacation starts once I pass through customs for my resort transfer. I always upgrade to nonstop transfers for my personal travels. The minimal amount it costs to upgrade to nonstop transfers beats spending the first hour or more of your vacation traveling from resort to resort dropping off other vacationers. However, we didn't have the option to do that on this trip so a cold beer - or two - does help the time pass more quickly!

We finally arrived at our resort host for the week, the beautiful Azul Grand Ixtapa!  I'll do a resort spotlight post at a later time with more specifics on the resort, but here are a few photos so you can see we sure didn't have to rough it!! 

I think they have one of the coolest signs...ever!

This was our gorgeous ocean view junior suite!

My favorite part of Mexico and I'm picky!  Let's just say a generous bowl of this 2x day times 7 days and I was happy for the elastic waist leggings I had for the trip home!

I love instagram and the seflies! My poor hubby had to do one with me every night before we went out!  It's not your eyes...one of them is a little blurry!  For more of my completely entertaining photos (ha!),  follow me on instagram.  user name: theresawilliams.

How about these for martini selection! Which one do you try first?

Gorgeous night view from our balcony.  It truly was yummy!

On Wednesday we decided to go into the town of Zihuatenjo.  It's about 3 miles from Ixtapa and an 80 peso bus ride sounded like a grand way to get there!  It took about 30 minutes each way and really was a great way to get a feel for how easy it is to get around and how SAFE it is!  The bus drivers are so friendly and helpful, as are the locals.  I loved smiling and playing peek-a-boo with the little ones.  Of course they all made me lonesome for my Blakeums (my grandson Blake) who was far away in MN!

Loved the sidewalks and streets with hand laid bricks and I love wandering through town admiring the shops and local restaurants and bars.  Of course we had to stop and taste a few beers too!

The marina was full of fishing boats.  Old and new ~ big and small.  I loved them all! 

(I really didn't mean to make that rhyme - it just happened!)

The fisherman just lay their daily catches on the beach on plastic bags and people purchase them right there.  I guess if you arrive at the Marina around the 6:00 am hour, it's a fascinating site to see the boats coming in and the hard work that goes into the whole process.  Maybe next time!

Thursday we decided to walk to the pier and take a water taxi to Isla Ixtapa.  The charge was 40 pesos and it was so cool! Isla Ixtapa is a charming little island off Playa Linda that is known for scuba diving, snorkeling and water sports.  It has quaint little restaurants right on the beach and it was so peaceful to just hang out for the day!  It is definitely a MUST DO!

The beach at the Azul Ixtapa Grand was not the greatest - actually it wasn't at all - so I was excited the pier was just 10 minute walk along the sea!

Of course we had to stop and stare at the little footprints in the sand...another reminder of my little guy!

The Sea Urchins were everywhere and I think they are so cool! Like, what do they do??

One of the hardworking locals holding the boat while we climb aboard

Photo op!

A surprise treat from my hubby and the bar owner!  How did they know it's just what I needed wanted! ;-)

Even the kids are hard workers.  They take such pride in making their home beautiful for us tourists!

Another photo op!

It truly was my favorite day of the entire stay!

Following is a sampling of the different activities/things to see and do for the entire family or for a romantic getaway.  Most of them are in the city central.  I've also included a few of what I think are opportunities to have your whole experience more memorable!  After all, isn't that what we all love about traveling??

There's lots of shopping!  Of course there are 'malls' and upscale stores but I love the local markets best!

Love how the resorts cater to the kids.  What kid doesn't feel great helping him/herself at the child size buffet??

They cater to my sweet tooth too!

They take such pride in their shows!  A different show every night so there's something for everyone!

They know just what kind of show to put on to keep the kids entertained and talking for days about their fav princess or super hero!  This particular one had Batman zipline in from the roof of the hotel! I have to admit even I thought that was pretty cool!

Great teaching moments too.  Ixtapa is a favorite for the Sea Turtles to come ashore and lay their eggs. Many resorts collect the eggs and build temporary pens, like this one, to mark where the eggs are buried and the estimated hatch date. Once they are born they hold them for 1-2 weeks in sea water tanks and feed them before they are released.  They think this gives them a better chance of survival.  How wonderful is that!!!

Tennis seems to be very popular in this area and most every resort we visited had gorgeous courts.  These clay courts at Azul Ixtapa Grand were truly stunning!

Maria was so happy to know I searched out the ping pong tables and many resorts have them!  The activities teams LOVE to put together tournaments too!

Who doesn't love a 'serious' beach volleyball game!

Lot's of watersports and check out that parasail! Anyone?

How about a beach massage?

Or, you can always go for the couples massage at the Spa!

For all you Destination Wedding brides out there, Ixtapa has many venues to experience the Wedding you're dreaming of!  This spot on the boardwalk was lovely!

There's plenty of beautiful beach space too!

Or how about a sunset ceremony?  This is a real sunset taken with MY camera!!

Or just some time to reconnect with your favorite person??

Ixtapa has so much to offer and truly something for everyone.  The locals take such pride in everything they do, as do all of the resort workers who work so hard and go out of their way to make sure your vacation is everything you want it to be and then some!  How lucky are we to know that not only are we experiencing something wonderful, but because they depend on our visits for their survival, we're making their lives better in the process.  It's a beautiful thing!

And today, as I enter my 49th year (yep, it's my Birthday!), I'm so thankful for the many blessings in my life.  I'm blessed to not only experience these beautiful places myself, but I'm also blessed to assist all of you with making your own memories and your own experiences in these wonderful destinations. As I try and take hold of the fact that I have one short year left until I'm 50 (yikes!) I'm glad I was able to take some time last week and remind myself that yes. Life is good.

That's me - pondering in the infinity pool.  Don't you love the difference in color between the pool water and the sea water?

For more info on Ixtapa, feel free to contact me or any of our 'Escape Artists'.  We can't wait to assist you with the trip of a lifetime!

Until next time...

A Bride's Review of Moondance Cliffs

I recently followed up with a newly-married MTS bride and found her glowing review to be incredibly helpful, descriptive and detailed. Krystle got married this past December at the Moondance Cliffs resort in Negril, Jamaica, and she had a fabulous experience which makes me so happy! I asked if I could share her review with all of you and she said yes, so here it is!

I will never be able to say enough good things about MDC. I would recommend it a million times over... They went above and beyond not just for Dave and I on the wedding day, but for all of our guests throughout the entire trip. I few things to back up my claim:

·         When we arrived we were greeted by a handful of people who remained important players throughout our stay, as well as by a board that welcomed our wedding party prominently during our entire stay.

·         The staff helped me stuff, prepare, and hand deliver (allowed me to even go with) each welcome bag to the exact bed of each guest room.

·         They simply took all my wedding materials & inspiration print-outs and I never saw them again until they were perfectly displayed on the wedding day. They asked a few questions, but I didn’t have to lift a finger.

·         Somehow everyone always remembered our names.

·         My mom’s room was upgraded because they worried with her disability she would not be comfortable on the second floor. Before she arrived they consulted me about this and showed me her new room to confirm this was a good idea. It was however, their idea to move and upgrade her free of charge.

·         On Thursday night I had asked for a low-key welcome reception for everyone to get to know each other. They prepared butler passed appetizers and specialty drinks. Everything was so elegant. I had no idea they were doing this, as I just asked for a common place to congregate for a drink.

·         On Friday the boys went on an all-day fishing trip. Since they left before breakfast, MDC prepared a bag breakfast for them to take with at 6 am.

·         Friday night the boys brought home a bunch of fish and the cooks at MDC prepared it many different ways for everyone to try the fresh catch. The leftover fish was prepared for the rehearsal dinner.

·         Friday, a few of the girls went cliff jumping and got their bathing suits dirty. MDC noticed and laundered them (free of charge) to remove the stains.  

·         Friday, I ruined my pedicure. MDC noticed and fixed it so it would be perfect for the wedding.  

·         Saturday, after the catamaran cruise that they organized for us, I returned back to MDC to find that they had setup an outdoor rehearsal dinner. I knew that we were having a rehearsal dinner but I had not made any special arrangements. We discussed what would be prepared and a good time to have it. I knew I didn’t have the budget for anything special so I never brought up any details. MDC brought in music, set up tables on the lawn with flowers and candles and other decorations with fruits and vegetables. It was so beautiful and unexpected.

·         Sunday, the wedding, was beyond my expectations. Everything was well organized (if anything ever went wrong, I didn’t know it), personal, and beautiful. I never felt rushed, lost, or like my guests were not well cared for. The only tears I cried were of joy.

·         Whenever we had an event, MDC informed guests that they could not dine at the restaurant we were using. Our events were always private.

·         The staff was always personable, courteous, helpful, and professional, but fun too.

·         I have continuously heard great things about it and just about weekly someone calls, texts, or sends a message on facebook asking when we are going back. I have had many memorable vacations... Vacations that I loved. I usually say I will return someday, but I am always ready to go home. We weren’t ready to go home.

It was very intimate and felt like a home-away-from-home. With that being said, if a bride and groom are looking for lots of activity on the resort (outside of what they plan and their guests bring), you won’t find much. With all the things scheduled we had just enough down-time by the pool and time out & about that having a quiet resort was perfect for us. It really made things special, but I could see how some couples would prefer a busy resort with lots of people at the bar. If a bride is ever considering Moondance Cliffs and has any specific questions, let me know as I’d always be happy to answer.

Thanks to Krystle for allowing me to pass on the detailed review of this charming property. I am so happy to hear about the fantastic time you had at Moondance Cliffs... Congratulations, once again!

Recommendations For Food & Fun in Saint Martin

My husband asked me to help him put together a list of our favorite places in Saint Martin the other day. His boss is heading there with his wife to celebrate their 20th anniversary, and considering the fact that we've traveled to Saint Martin six times, he thought it would be fun for us to make a couple of suggestions. It got me thinking.... Why not share this fabulous list with our loyal blog readers??

Saint Martin (the proper spelling on the French side is Saint-Martin and on the Dutch side it's Sint Maarten) is an island in the Caribbean about 190 miles east of Puerto Rico. One unique aspect about this destination is that it is divided between two countries- France and the Netherlands. You can pass between the two sides freely and experience an incredible variety of fun, food, shopping and adventure! Five of our six visits were with our extended family members, and the other visit was for our honeymoon. Although we haven't been there since October 2010, I would love to go again someday because it will always hold a special place in my heart!

Here's 'SXM' from the air. As you can see, it's pretty cozy... Only about 54 miles around!

Our 1st visit in January 2006. We look like a couple of kids!

Our most recent visit in October 2010 on our honeymoon.

One aspect of Saint Martin I love is the gorgeous ocean. The sun always seems to glisten perfectly over the bright blue water. I'll admit, I'm not a big swimmer (...or snorkler, surfer, diver, or water-person in general!) but this landscape makes for a gorgeous view while resting on the beach with a good book and a cold Pina Colada! See?

Here's a view of the bright blue waters that I took from the car on our way to Phillipsburg. I swear to you, I did not edit the coloring of this photo one bit. It's almost hard for me to believe too!

Now for our recommendations.... Below is our list, sprinkled with a few additional vacation photos. Such great memories!

La Rosa Too: Like Italian food? If so, you have to eat here. It's on the Dutch side behind Maho Plaza. Unbelievable lasanga and a great selection of wine! And don't even get me started on their homemade bread....

The Pizza Galley: Along with the same Italian-food theme, check out Pizza Galley if you want a casual lunch or dinner. They have the tinnest and crispiest pizza crusts. Yum!

Sunset Beach Bar: This is the bar located on the beach directly across from the airport runway. And I mean directly. As in, watch out for sandblast! This is a fun place to visit at night though once all of the airport-action has subsided. 

Cheri's Cafe: If you're looking for something lively and silly, check out Cheri's in Maho Plaza. Good burgers and fries, and shall we say, interesting entertainment (i.e. Caribbean male waiters dressed as dancing & singing women).

Orient Beach: Looking to do some parasailing, jet-skiing and other water-related rental activities? This is the place to do it! It's on the French side. Just to let you know, clothing is optional so you may want to bring blindfolds for your kids, ha!

Phillipsburg: Shopping in Phillipsburg is the best! There's just about everything you could want to purchase there. Jewelry (go see Neil at Grand Jewelers), purses and accessories, cosmetics + fragrances, home decor, specialty products, electronics, cigars, etc. etc. Note: The cruise ships dock there often so don't schedule your afternoon too tightly!

L'Escargot: Great place to have lunch in Phillipsburg as you take a break from shopping. Right on the beach. Here I am there with my cousin (center) and sister (right).

Karakter: This is in Simpson Bay. It's a bus that was cleverly converted into the most charming beach bar I've ever been too. Get an order of calamari and a Margarita. Perfection.

The Boat House: This is one place we go to every time we visit SXM. I get the scallops every. single. time. They're too good to pass up! Also in Simpson Bay on the Dutch side.

Saint Maarten Zoo: For a good laugh, go see the monkeys at the zoo! We have been there multiple times and they're always filled with the same sass & pizazz. Offer them a peanut and they throw the shell at you. They don't have the best manners but they are seriously funny. 

There are lots of other animals to check out there if you're visiting with kids. The only thing to know in advance is that you can get shockingly close, so watch the little ones carefully!

Marigot: This is the place to shop on the French side if you like handmade items. The open air market is the best! I believe it's open during the afternoon only.

Loterie Farm: Want to zip-line? That is where to do it!

Pineapple Petes: My husband loves the ribs at Pineapple Petes! It's a fun atmosphere with live music; again on the Dutch side.

Toopers: This place is on the same main road as Pineapple Petes and the Boathouse, and it's got a great selection of food. Their house rum is yummy! If you go, would you please bring home a bottle for me? :)

So that's it! I'll sign off with a picture I snapped on an evening walk on the beach a few years ago... Please feel free to email me any time with questions about this destination. As you can see, it's absolutely gorgeous and it's got a lot to offer!

Funky Friday ~ A December Reflection ~

Today is my oldest son's 12th birthday, and represents the end of the usual December scramble in our family. With three birthdays and Christmas all in one month, trying to fit it all in while making each person feel special and celebrated is no small task. I know I should love it, but truthfully I'm relieved it's coming to an end ~ which is kind of sad.

Last night my 10 and 8 year old were getting into their seemingly daily argument and I had to intervene. They share a room, a love of competition, and a need to get under each other's skin. I tried to explain to them that I know deep down they would do anything for each other, and they agreed if someone was coming after their brother they would...well, we really don't need to get into details, do we?

 

Here are the culprits, enjoying an ice cold root beer after a baseball game.

But I started to tell them that they really only have to put up with each other full-time for about eight more years, then they ~ GULP ~ eight more years??? So, wait, Matthew will only be around here for six more years? And Michael for eight? And George for ten? Then I will just have one at home? For only five more after that??? Wasn't I just holding them in my arms? Eight more years? Why didn't someone tell me this would be so short? So I only have six more Decembers with them all in the house?

The relief that had washed over me moments ago with December coming to an end has now turned into panic. I have come to love this organized chaos that we call home, and I can't imagine it without any one of them! I know, I know, the birthdays and celebrations will continue. They'll come home from college (and may even move back in for periods of time after that), but these years of us all being together are moving too fast. As my mom says, we are living the best time of our family life right now, when we can lock the doors at night and know that our kids are tucked safely in bed.

I'm just not ready yet. When someone mentions 1992 I feel like it was just five years ago, not 20. Eight years is nothing, and the busier we get, the faster it goes. 

Family photo from Christina's wedding a few years ago. They clean up nice, don't they?

So what does this have to do with travel? Nothing, and everything. I travel a lot, but the last time my family all got on a plane together was nine years ago, and I only had two kids. It's just so expensive for a family to travel, so we haven't. But we will. This year, I'm making it a priority. I'm saving for it. I'm working towards it. I will not let these few years slip by without our family enjoying each other in a destination that's new and different, to take us out of our routines and daily annoyances, to really leave it all behind and just get silly.

So I'm telling you to travel as a family. And I know times are tough. And I know it would be nice to get a newer car this year and that the roof needs repairing. I know travel is seen as a luxury and not a necessity. I know it falls to the bottom of the priority list because it has on mine, too. But I regret that. I could have made coffee at home every day and not gotten a $4.89 latte. We could have eaten out one less time each week and put that money away. Eventually that stuff does add up, and even if it means going somewhere once every two or three years, it's better than not at all.

I've been to a lot of places. I know all the fanciest resorts to take your kids where you'll all be entertained every minute of the day, and if you have the money for that then that is simply excellent. Go for it! They are truly amazing experiences. But if you don't, and you've been setting aside $50 each paycheck until you have enough saved, I also know of some more modest places that offer wonderful family experiences because I have been to them, checking them out for you, and someday soon, for me and my family too.

So, travel. Move it up the list. Set your goal and work towards it. Don't let these few years that you still have your kids' attention pass you by. Before you know it they will have careers, families, and responsibilities of their own, and it will be more and more difficult for you all to get together. Now is the time. Carpe diem. Do something you'll never forget, and will never regret. See the world together.

 Give the kids a pool and some slides and they are happy! Who wouldn't be?

Have a wonderful and blessed New Year!

'Unlimited Luxury' ~ Now Resorts and Spas

With the winter travel season right around the corner, I'm becoming more amazed, (not to mention more frustrated) with how fast things are booking up for the 2013 winter/spring travel season.  March is getting really picked over and it pains me to see families either spending 2 days of their vacation in airports or on airplanes, as they're forced to take single and double connections, or even worse, forced to stay home.   I'm always on the lookout for great bonus deals for our clients and one of the resort chains that always comes to mind is Now Resorts and Spas.

Now Resorts and Spas offer guests something more than just a trip to Mexico.  They offer a vacation experience.  They want you to leave all of your stress, your worries and whatever else you're carrying on your shoulders behind, live in the NOW ~ and bask in the concept of their Unlimited-Luxury®.  Unlimited-Luxury® means wristbands are never required, mini bars are refreshed daily, 24 hour room and concierge service at no additional charge, restaurants require no reservations and bars serve unlimited premium brand beverages.  Not to mention great daytime activities, live, professional entertainment at night, supervised kids clubs, teen activities and the list goes on and on.  Best part of all?  They're in some of the most beautiful and easy to get to locations which puts them at the top of my list!  Here's a couple of my favs...

Now Jade Riviera Cancun ~ Just a few minutes from the quaint fishing town of Puerto Morelos, and about 12 miles from the Cancun international airport, this is a perfect location.  Great resort for the young at heart.  The Now Jade Riviera Cancun guest is more interested in experiences than material things.  They like places that are different and stand out at every level.  550 tastefully decorated suites, private white-sand beach, and excursions to the 2nd largest barrier reef.  There's nothing to disappoint!

Now Larimar Punta Cana ~ Vibrant and contempory, Now Larimar is perfect for singles, couples, families or groups!  You can sit back and relax on 700 yards of picturesque white sandy beach or enjoy endless entertainment and activities.  The decision is yours!

Now Amber Puerto Vallarta ~ Just 15 minutes from the Puerto Vallarta airport Now Amber is located by the famous "El Malecon" boardwalk and great shopping and nightlife.   Golden sand beaches, 8 dining options, 4 bars and luxurious decor this resort is pleasing to every sense!  With theme parties, Movies under the stars and 7 golf courses nearby, there's never a dull moment for any member of the family!

For those who want a bit more pampering Now Resorts and Spas offers Preferred Club rooms.  With lots of added amenities they may be the perfect fit for you!  Here's what you get:

• Personalized check-in and check-out with concierge service 
• Preferred status and amenities Exterior Jacuzzi 
• Private Preferred Club Lounge 
• Two private, Preferred Club pools each with Jacuzzi 
• Upgraded bath amenities 
• Bathrooms with double sinks 
• Pillow menu 
• Complimentary computer access in Preferred Club Lounge 
• Upgraded mini-bar and room service menu 
• Daily continental breakfast service in the lounge 
• Pool concierge & bar service
• Afternoon hot and cold hors d’oeuvres; exquisite desserts & fine liquors in the lounge 
• Complimentary newspaper in room every day upon request 
• Complimentary wireless internet access

Saving the best for last...we all like more bang for our buck, right?  Now Resorts is currently offering the following promotions.  Of course, there is always the small print that explains the terms and conditions for each promo.  Looking them over briefly, the restrictions are few and I know they'll bring so much more to your vacation experience if you qualify.  Truly something for everyone and any of our 'Escape Artists' would be happy to make sure you are meeting the rules of the restrictions to ensure you can take advantage of your favorite promo!  All you gotta do is ask!

Golf at Now Jade and Now Sapphire 

Guests at both of these resorts are offered complimentary greens fees at Grand Coral Riviera Maya. A course designed by PGA champion and golf course designer, Nick Price, the Grand Coral Riviera Maya boasts a magnificent 18-hole, 7,043 yard golf course where golf pros and amateurs alike can enjoy a round of golf just steps away from the breathtaking Caribbean Sea.  One round of golf per person, per day.

Golf at Now Amber
Guests staying at Now Amber Puerto Vallarta through June 30, 2013 can enjoy one round of complimentary greens fees at the two 18-hole championship courses at Vista Vallarta Club de Golf and the neighboring course at Marina Vallarta Golf Club! Vista Vallarta Club de Golf is located on the property's highest elevation, golfers will enjoy breathtaking views of Puerto Vallarta, the Marina and the Banderas Bay as well, the perfect setting for this world class course designed by the world's greatest player, Jack Nicklaus. Marina Vallarta Golf Club is built on the property's lower west end. Tom Weiskopf has done a masterful job of blending elevations and natural features into an incredibly playable experience.  One round of golf per person, per day.

Girlfriend Getaways
Enjoy an Unlimited-Luxury® getaway with your girlfriends at any Now Resort & Spa. In addition to an Unlimited-Luxury® getaway, you and your girlfriends will be pampered as you should be! Package cost is $62.50 per person, per stay. Girlfriends who select this package will receive the following as a part of this package: manicure and pedicure sessions (up to three girls may receive these treatments at the same time), champagne and strawberries in room upon arrival, complimentary room service one morning offering Mimosas, fruit plate, and pastries, a complimentary group photo (each girl will receive one printed photo), daily yoga session (only available at Mexico properties), access to wet areas of the spa and 10% off additional spa treatments.  Doesn't that sound like something us gals could use?  Anyone in need of another girlfriend - I'm available and I'm fun!

Groups
There are groups for every reason and Now Resorts has some great group benefits for you!  Book five rooms, receive the sixth room free! Plus, your group will receive a private check-in, 1 complimentary VIP room upgrade for every 10 nights paid and $200 in resort coupons per room!

And don't forget about Romance Travel!  Destination Weddings Groups and Honeymoons are a speciality at Midwest Travel Service and Now Resorts and Spas do them perfectly!  We'll work with you to find out what your dreams are and make sure they become reality so you'll have memories that will last a lifetime!  That's what makes us happy!

Until next time...

Funky Friday ~ More Holiday DIY

Have I mentioned I LOVE this time of year??  For the most part I'm usually a day late and a dollar short, so the frantic crowds and last minute hustle and bustle of this week never bothers me at all.   My house is perfectly disorganized and cluttered with things I've seen on Pinterest or my favorite blogs.  I fall in love with them and decide I'm going to make them for myself or one of my cherished friends.  It's a constant frustration for my husband whose daily task is trying to organize my piles in different corners of the house by asking me what he should do with this or that - something or other.  My answer is always a 'Oh, leave that.  I'm going to get to that this week.'  And he does.  And I don't.

So.  Although the crafts are purchased, and the piles in the corners remain, I've decided to save them all for a rainy day and display them next year.  BUT - so all is not lost - I'm sharing a few of my favorites with you.  Maybe you are one of those I aspire to be and have all of your shopping done, cookies baked and presents wrapped and you're wondering what you should do with these last few days before Christmas.  Or maybe you're hosting a get together and are looking for a few simple ideas that will 'wow' your guests.  These should do the trick.

I love this Black and White Christmas Tree from The Inspired Room

The Nesting Place is one of my fav blogs to follow.  She has such cool ideas like this Anthropologie inspired wreath!

I also love these Snow Lantern / Terrariums by The Nester

Love this Wintery Pearl Wreath by Classy Clutter

Another of my favorite blogs is Centsational Girl.  She makes shopping in your own home appealing! Love how she decorates with vessels and vignettes and loving her Holiday Home Tour!

These DIY candle holders from Thifty Decor Chick?  Adorable, inexpensive and beautiful!

And sometimes, when life is crazy busy, it's easier to have someone else do the work for you.  I LOVE this idea for an advent calendar!   The options of what you could put in the little grain sacks are endless and how fun!  Check out Dreamy Whites.  Both their shop and their blog are full of inspiration.

Finally, I can't finish a Holiday post without throwing a little 'beauty' into it.  Another one of my favorite blogs is The Small Things Blog. It's definitely a daily read.  I've never met Kate but somehow, after following her via her blog and instagram, I feel like I know her!  Her hair tutorials are easy to follow and doably awesome!  This one is perfect for the Holidays!

My 'friend' Kate with a perfect Holiday Hair Tutorial!

Here's wishing you and yours the most wonderful and holy Holiday Season filled with incredible love and joy!  

Until next time...