It’s the Little Things *pre Christmas edition 24.12.16

Well it’s the last minute hustle and bustle, crazy town, final countdown…I feel a song coming on!

Here’s a snapshot of the last 2 weeks (sorry – just couldn’t fit it in last week!) of the little things that have brought joy to my heart and put a smile on my face. Enjoy!

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Doggy Christmas jumpers
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Wintery sunsets

 

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Saluting the start of the Christmas holidays
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It’s a wrap!
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Christmassy haircuts – complete with bow that lasted approximately 2 minutes!
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Christmas jumper competitions – and yes he did win!

There was lots of fun to be had in the run up to Christmas – my top tips to beat the stress: plan, budget, keep it simple…oh and wine. Lots of wine.

What Christmas delights have made you smile recently? Let me know below!

NickyπŸ’‹

The Feeling of Christmas

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Christmas is the season of cheesy songs, corny cracker jokes and movie one liners!

But it’s also a time of great celebration, fun and frivolity and good wine!!

Here’s a few quotes to sum up the season.

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Last but not least, how about this classic from Home Alone!

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What’s your favourite seasonal saying?

Not Your Average Gifts for the Wine Lover

 

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Looking for the perfect gift for a wine lover?

Here’s a few items you can pick up from my local boutique shops. They’re fun, a little unique and utterly gorgeous.

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This wine holder is sure to be a talking point.
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An amusing reminder with your morning coffee.
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Scrub up nicely with some bubblesΒ 
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Have a little fun with your wrapping too!

Bring a little Christmas cheer to your celebrations. And remember,

I’m dreaming of a white Christmas. But if the white runs out, I’ll drink the red!

All gifts from a selection at Aspire Style and Liv’s. This was not a sponsored post and all photographs were taken by myself.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Things you need to know about me #9

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I’m a sensory gal.

I love the feel of soft things against my bare skin – it is an essential part of my day. And when the weather is cold – it’s the perfect excuse to envelop yourself in something that feels like you have yet to leave the comfort of your bed.

I love the opulence and vintage glamour that springs to mind when I wear or accessorise with faux fur. Think 1950’s Hollywood sirens sashaying in fur stoles and coats in films such as Gentlemen Prefer Blondes and Singing in the Rain.

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There’s something a little bit sexy or naughty about a dash of fur against an all black outfit and a red lip – and I like it!

And for a more casual look – simply throw on a soft or fluffy jumper with a pair of jeans or leather trousers. Stylish. Sassy. Satisfying.

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And fur pom-poms on your handbag are an easy and affordable way to add a little glamour to your everyday look.

If I’m feeling stressed a fluffy, furry cushion or throw is a tried and tested way for me to lower my anxiety levels and ease away the dramas of the day. I’m not sure if it’s reminiscent of being tucked in tight at night with a soft blanket; that feeling of being safe and looked after or if it’s just the thing that soothes my nerve endings, but I know that snuggling against or wrapping myself up in something soft is the perfect antidote to a stressful day.

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Last but not least – there’s always the real thing to give you those much needed cuddles to pick you up after a long day…

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Tell me – are you a lover or hater of all things soft and fur-like?

Your Christmas tree – it’s as individual as you!

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Talk to a room of people about their Christmas tree and you will get a variety of different traditions, preferences and experiences.

No two trees will look the same – from the actual tree you choose to how you adoringly adorn it. For some, decorating it is a time honoured tradition – for others it changes each year.

I can remember the excitement of putting the tree up with my siblings as a little girl and have passed that excitement onto my own children. It’s still a big deal even thought they are no longer little!

There are so many different types of Christmas trees available now – how do you choose what kind to go for?

Are you a traditional kinda guy – green spruce (real or artificial) with snow covered branches and some pine cones?

Do you prefer the rustic, reclaimed type – reloved materials and extremely eco friendly?

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How about something that resembles a piece of art – clean lines and fabulously interesting?

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Or do you go for a different approach – unique shape, material or simply designer?

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How about small and barely there – a slight nod to the season, but very subtly done?

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The next question has to be: what kind of decorations do you go for?

Traditional – think The Nutcracker, wooden toys, Santa and his elves?

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Or classy white and glass – opulence at it’s best?

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How about a modern, contemporary look – I’m seeing bright colours and vivid patterns?

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We have a couple of Christmas trees in our house, they’re both traditional trees but are decorated differently. One has ornaments from places we’ve visited and some that have been bought as special gifts – it’s a tree of memories. The other’s colour scheme changes regularly as I get bored easily and like to come up with new ideas each year!

Let’s share our experiences…

How would you describe your tree? Do you have any traditions, special memories or stories to tell?

Let me know below or tag me on Instagram (@shimmerwithin) – I’d love to have a look!

xo

All trees and decorations from a selection at Liv’s. All photographs taken by myself.Β