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Adorable Christmas Decorations

If you’ve been following for a little while, you know that I love Christmas. Since December is (finally) here, I thought it would be a fun idea to post a few of my favorite Christmas decorations that I think you’ll love!

If you’ve been following for a little while, you know that I absolutely love Christmas. I have to try pretty hard to wait on decorating until Thanksgiving is over. Since December is finally here, I thought it would be a fun idea to post a few of my favorite Christmas decorations.

When the temperature first begins to drop, and the snow begins to fall, I put on the Christmas music and start dancing! I put the Christmas scent in my wax melter, and drink a little too much hot cocoa. (Also, I’m curious: do you say ‘hot chocolate’ or ‘hot cocoa’? Let me know in the comments!)

While all of this is so much fun, my favorite part of Christmas is decorating! It really gives me all the holiday feels. I figured that I would list a few of my favorite Christmas decorations from Amazon that you can use this year, or maybe next year when Christmas rolls around again!

1. Boho Christmas Rug

Ok, I think I might have a bit of an obsession with rugs. Seasonal rugs have always been my favorite because you can never have too many. You can switch them out anytime! While this boho rug is seasonal, it might be able to match the year – round decor of certain homes.

Boho Christmas Rug (rectangle)

Pastel Christmas Rug (round)

2. Pine & Eucalyptus Garland

Similar to a traditional garland, a pine & eucalyptus garland is a modern farmhouse spin on an often seen decoration. I love eucalyptus garlands with ornaments and lights, but garlands with pine cones and berries are also adorable.

Pine & Eucalyptus Garland

3. ‘Be Merry’ Christmas Banner

I love a pretty Christmas banner as much as I love rugs. It adds a bit of character to a home when a banner is draped across a fireplace or bookshelf. Burlap banners are my go-to but I also have a thing for

‘Be Merry’ Banner

Unique ‘Merry Christmas’ Banner

4. Tassel Beads

Tassel beads are a lovely piece to add to a foyer or table. I think they look wonderful when draped from a pot or vase because they add color or they can add to the overall theme of a home. I linked a beaded banner that can be used for drapery, or above a fireplace. This particular set is meant for Christmas, but there are sets for all seasons and home color schemes.

Christmas Tassel Beads

5. Stocking Decorations

Are you a college student or someone looking for a fun idea to do with friends this holiday? You might consider investing in a set of matching stocking s to hang above the fireplace just for fun. There are a few games to do with friends that involve stockings that you can easily find on Pinterest. Below are a few of my favorite boho stockings from Amazon.

White Boho Stockings

Colorful Boho Stockings

Bonus: Fuzzy Slippers

Who can go without a pair of fuzzy slippers on Christmas day?? I feel like I am always wearing fuzzy socks around the house, but a few pairs seem to wear out easily. If you are interested in slippers, I recommend moccasin slippers as a simple and fashionable option. If you are looking for a fancier slipper, you might find yourself attracted to these Jessica Simpson slippers from Amazon.

Jessica Simpson Slippers

Moccasin Slippers – Jessica Simpson

Note – The above Moccasin Slippers can double as an outdoor slipper as well

Did any of these catch your eye or match your home aesthetic? I’d love to know what you think, so feel free to let me know in the comments below. Have a wonderful week!

Keep Smiling,

The Best Christmas Gift Guides

Thanksgiving was only a couple of days ago, which means that Christmas is right around the corner. These gift guides will surely help you find what you need. (You may even find a few items to add to your own Christmas list!)

Thanksgiving was only a couple of days ago, which means that Christmas is right around the corner. Some prefer to finish their shopping early, while others like to go last minute. No matter when you finish, these gift guides will surely help you find what you need. (You may even find a few items to add to your own Christmas list!)

The holidays truly are ‘the most wonderful time of the year’. Is there anyone who doesn’t start making hot cocoa as soon as possible? I break out my decorations and Christmas music fairly early. (Are you someone who starts getting into all those holiday vibes sooner rather than later? Let me know in the comments!)

Gift buying is also an iconic part of November/December. Black Friday rolls around, and it’s a shopping frenzy! It can be a little stressful if you aren’t sure what you’re looking for, but I’m here to help. You can sit back, relax and let the Christmas season begin!

1. Cozy Chic Gift Guide

Items in This Guide:

1.) Oil diffusers (cactus and coastal wood) – Target

2. ) Fleece throw blanket (several colors) – Target

3.) Phone case (several colors) – Target

4.) Matching mittens and pom hat (blush pink) – Adidas brand

5.) Mauve pom slippers – found at Kohl’s

6.) Diamond necklace (rose gold) – Target

7.) Star String fairy lights – Target

This gift guide is perfect for those who love an aesthetic feel to their room or home. I love my room to always feel cozy. It needs to have a dim glow, and faux fur throws and soft pillows everywhere. When I do go out, I love it when I am able to wear a sweater or a beanie. A girl needs to be comfortable, am I right?

2. City Girl Gift Guide

Items in This Guide:

1.) Pura Vida Rings and Earring set – puravidabracelets.com

2.) Apple Airpods 2 – Best Buy, Amazon, Apple.com

3.) Candles (my favorite are from Target)

4.) Bullet Journal – Michaels, Target, etc. (Check out my post on “How to Start a Budget-Friendly Bullet Journal”)

5.) Felt-Tipped Pens – Target, Michaels, etc.

6.) Cutout Boots – Target, Kohl’s etc.

Perfect for the city boss or fashion guru, these gifts will make any busy girl’s holiday. This is complete with AirPods for drowning out city noise and a customizable planner for making sure that your day (or week) is on schedule!

3. The Adventurer Gift Guide

Items in This Guide:

1.) “Jetsetter Pack” – Pura Vida

2.) Polaroid Camera – Michaels, Amazon, etc.

3.) Floral Suitcase – Vera Bradley, Amazon

4.) Travel Bag – Amazon, Macy’s etc.

5.) Tennis Shoes (comfortable for sightseeing and plane rides!) – Adidas, Nike, etc.

6.) Passport Cover – Serengetee (Use my Coupon Code “Busyandbeaming880”)

7.) Flat-rim Fedora hat – Amazon, Kohl’s, Target, etc.

Do you have anyone in your life who is always up for a spontaneous trip? If yes, then you need to check out a few items on this list. These items are completely functional for travel (and everyday life). Get your hands on some of these for your wanderlust loved one!

4. Stocking Stuffer Guide

Items in This Guide:

1.) Lindt Chocolate – Target, Grocery Store, etc.

*note* – Ferraro Rocher and Russel Stover truffles are also a few of my favorites!

2.) Christmas Ornament (elephant shown) – Target, Amazon, Michaels, etc.

3.) Duster – Target, Macy’s, Amazon, etc.

4.) Rose Gold Fairy Light Strand – Target, Amazon, Michaels

5.) Fuzzy Socks – Target, Amazon, Altar’d State, Kohl’s, etc.

6.) Starbucks Gift Card – Starbucks

*note* Amazon gift cards are great, too!

We can’t leave out stocking stuffers! These smaller gifts are equally meaningful. These gifts can be used well and will last a while (except for the chocolate:) These stocking stuffers are every day items that your friends or family will absolutely love.

Did you find anything that caught your eye, or that you wanted to see? If so, let me know in the comments. I always love to hear your suggestions! As for now, have a wonderful time Christmas shopping!

Keep Smiling,

My Favorite Bloggers you Need to Visit

Believe it or not, you probably visit several blogs for daily information, tips or ideas. Below I’ve listed some blogs that I adore, and that I’m sure you’ll love.

Believe it or not, you probably visit several blogs for daily information, tips or ideas. Each blog is run by a real person, so it’s time to share the love! Below I’ve listed some blogs that I adore. From the theme, to the content and photography, these websites deserve a ton of recognition, and I’m sure you’ll love them as much as I do.

In this day and age, we tend to use the internet to search several things in our daily lives. From ways to clean a certain stain to tips on how to organize, you’ve probably visited at least one blog. They might even be listed below!

A blog is a articles and posts written by people who have experienced what they write about and they produce relevant and helpful information. We may receive a free printable or two out of visiting as well.

For some, this is a full time job.

It can be a lot to handle. But these ladies have it all figured out. Let’s get into it!

1.) @cassiescroggins

cassiescroggins.com

Cassie is a mom blogger focused on “helping women and moms realize their full potential” when it comes to blogging. If you’re looking to start a blog or a business, I highly recommend checking out her site. She has such wonderful content, and a bold, fresh theme.

2. @living.with.laney

livingwithlaney.com

If you’re a new or returning college student looking for a little inspiration, or someone to relate to? If you answered yes, then you need to check out Laney’s blog and instagram. She posts motivation, and everything to make school easier for students.

3. @macykarl

macykarl.com

Macy is a lifestyle blogger travelling the world. Her beige instagram theme is warm and welcoming and the inspiration she posts is on point. Her feed is one of my favorites! One of my favorite posts from her website is “18 Ways to Stay Cozy this Fall”

4. @sarah.gilmoree_

@sarah.gilmoree_ ~ IG

Sarah is an adventurous mom who’s photos are perfectly layed out blue/grey feed. She has been to so many amazing destinations, and seeing her latest trips fill you with wanderlust.

5. @_sammanthaa.mac_

the-everyday-girl.com

Samantha’s Instagram and website include fashion tips, as well as moody color schemes that are perfect for fall. My favorite part of Samantha’s Instagram is the photos she publishes. They are adorable!

Go show these amazing bloggers and budding influencers a little bit of love over the holidays. They definitely deserve it. The hard work they’ve put into their content has certainly paid off, From the authentic photos to the creative posts, what’s not to love? See you next week!

Keep Smiling,

10 Amazon Finds You’ll Love

We all love a great Amazon find, right? Sometimes you don’t know what you need until you find it. Here are some of my favorite random Amazon finds that I’m sure you’ll love as much as I do.

We all love a great Amazon find, right? Sometimes you don’t know what you need until you find it. I constantly find myself searching for a certain item, only to come across something else I love. Can you relate? Here are some of my favorite random Amazon finds that I’m sure you’ll love as much as I do.

We can all use a little spontaneity, can’t we? What better way to do it than to find an item you love while online shopping? It can be a fun way to pass time and either decorate your home, office, or to complete work or a morning routine. Amazon has it all.

Sometimes, I’ll be searching for a specific tool or item on Amazon, then I’ll click an incorrect button and get totally sidetracked for a while.

That said, I’ve heard that this happens to a lot of people, though, so we aren’t alone! Here are a few random Amazon items that I found accidentally, but absolutely love!

1. Letter Board

These are wonderful for displaying a quote of the day, welcome sign, etc. They have also been trending on Instagram, with it’s own hashtag! There are so many styles to match the theme of your home or workspace. Below are a few of my favorite boards that I think you’ll enjoy as well.

Rustic Grey Letterboard

Monochromatic Letterboard

Pink Felt Letterboard

2. Bullet Journal

Simply put, a bullet journal is an artistic way to organize and plan. You can find a list of my favorite bullet journals below, and you can click here to check out my post on “How to Start a Bullet Journal”.

Poluma Bullet Journal

Artfan Bullet Journal

Scrivwell Bullet Journal

2. Wall Hanging Macrame

Who doesn’t love a bit of boho decor? A hanging macrame is a unique and creative way to spruce up your walls and home. You can have several complimentary ones throughout your house as well! Here is a link to the wall hanging macrame page on Amazon.

Wall Hanging Macrame

3. Faux Sheepskin Rug

A faux sheepskin rugs are great for decorating any space. They come in so many shapes, sizes and colors so it’s hard to go wrong. Below are a few rugs that I love. There is only one link, but you can see a variety of colors and shapes to choose from.

Ashler Faux Sheepskin Rug

4. Mason Jar Wall Decor

This accent piece is sure to spruce up any wall. If you are looking for something unique to add to your home, this is highly recommended item. I don’t own one personally, but I would definitely get my hands on a few if I had the room. The wood or backing can come in several different stains or colors, and some can be customized.

Mason Jar Wall Decor

5. Storage Basket

A storage basket is a unique way to store laundry it a bedroom or dorm. Smaller ones can hold accessories, books or other miscellaneous items. A storage basket can double as a way to personalize a space. If you don’t like the idea of a small rope storage basket, you can find metal or wicker ones. A few of my favorites are linked below.

Large Rope Tassel Basket

Metal Storage Organizer

Basket Organizer

Bonus: Fabric Storage Organizer

6. Seasonal Pillows

Adding a few pillows that match the season is a creative way to add a moody pop of color to your home. While it’s always pretty to have a cohesive cushion theme throughout the year, sometimes it adds a fresh look when you mix it up. Below are a few pillow covers that I love.

Spring Seasonal Cushion Covers

Summer Seasonal Cushion Covers

Fall Seasonal Cushion Covers

Winter Seasonal Cushion Covers

Christmas Cushions Covers

7. Wax/Oil Diffuser

I love my wax diffuser because it brightens up my room. You can always match the design to your home or apartment and change out the scent according to seasons or moods. In fact, rather than having a diffuser that sits on a shelf or dresser, you can actually find a mini one that fits onto a wall. (Sometimes, they even double as a nightlight!) I recommend a peppermint scent because it clears out your sinuses. It also reminds me of Christmas, and who doesn’t love that??

8. Wall Map

Calling all travelers! A wall map is perfect for you if you love to travel. A wall map can be a tapestry, but my favorite is the three-dimensional cork push pin maps because you can mark places you’ve been (or places you want to go). They come in so many different designs, but I recommend a neutral scheme. If you choose a wall tapestry, I always think it adds an extra detail if you line the top with a few strands of fairy lights.

Wood Map

Wall Tapestry

Fairy Lights

9. Hanging Shelves

If you have the space, this item is a must have. There are so many creative ideas that you can easily incorporate into this. You can hang books, plants, trinkets, etc. It also adds so much character to whatever area you are designing. You’ll want to get get your hands on these!

Wood and Macrame Hanging Shelves

10. Macrame Mirror

Apparently I have a thing for macrame! A wall is never complete without a mirror, and an accent mirror is the perfect way to add a bit of personality to a wall, that you can also use every day. I’m always a fan of simple mirrors, but I’ve also attached a few bolder mirrors as well.

Simple Creme Macrame Mirror

Eye Macrame Mirror

Round Tassel Mirror

Happy shopping! Maybe while you’re scrolling through these, you’ll find something else that you love. If so, don’t hesitate to tell me! I’d love to hear it. As for now, enjoy your picks and I’ll see you next week!

How to Not Procrastinate

It’s so easy to put or boring or difficult tasks. That said, unenjoyable jobs are often important. Thus, we need to stop procrastinating and get the job done. Here some of my favorite tips to help you do just that!

Writing papers, doing math homework or mopping the floor is certainly not the most entertaining way to pass time. It is so easy to find something else to do instead of given assignments or housework. This being said, what we don’t want to do is usually incredibly important. Thus, we need to overcome our writers block or dislike for a certain subject or chore. I’ve come up with some of my favorite tips to help you do just that!

Sometimes, the week may seem to drag on and on. When it does, it can be hard to find the time or energy to complete your task list of work. We may have to miss out on an event in order to finish everything.

Does this sound fun? Didn’t think so.

Sure, you can put it off until the last minute, but then more work begins to pile on top. You become stuck in a loop of tasks that never seem to end. This is procrastination at its finest. Many people struggle with procrastination. Sometimes we can scrape by, but at other times it can be a real problem. That’s why I’ve created a list of suggestions on how to stop procrastinating, so you can break the cycle and get things done.

1.) Listen to Music

According to a few scientific studies, listening to music increases positivity, which in turn increases productivity. The correct music creates a mindful mood that causes us to destress and relax while doing homework. For assignments, I highly recommend listening to laid back music or classical tunes. While doing chores or work where focus isn’t necessary, upbeat music works well.

2.) Break it Up

Trying to write a research paper, finish a science project, reorganize a closet and meet friends for coffee all in a set amount of time simply isn’t realistic. You won’t have to cancel plans, though in order to complete your priorities first. Instead, don’t be afraid to take a break. Maybe try to write the first paragraph of your paper, add a few touches to your science assignment, etc. That way you are able to enjoy your free time but be productive.

3.) Eliminate Distractions

This suggestion might seem obvious, but it is an important one. Often times, we get distracted when a phone goes off or if the TV is on. If you are listening to music on a phone, I highly recommend turning off all notifications, and making sure that you have a quiet place to work. You wouldn’t want to study for a final exam in the kitchen while your family or roommate is making dinner! Being distracted easily is not always a sign of procrastination, it is a road block for productivity because we often get lost in other activities rather than the task at hand.

As you may have been able to tell, it is not always easy to stop procrastinating, but finishing tasks certainly pay off in the long run. I wish you the best of luck! If you have any more suggestions, please feel free to let me know in the contact box below. I’d love to hear them! Also, sign up for my mailing list so that you never miss a post from Busy and Beaming. See you next time!

Keep Smiling,

The Best Autumn Starbucks Drinks

Autumn was meant for pumpkin spice lattes and apple cider. Whether you prefer a different drink or feel like (pumpkin) spicing it up, this post will help you find your new favorite fall flavor!

There’s no doubt about it. Autumn was meant for pumpkin spice lattes and apple cider. Whether you prefer a different drink or feel like (pumpkin) spicing it up, this post will help you find your new favorite fall flavor! If you’re in the mood for more summer-y flavors, you can check out my post on the Best Summer Starbucks Drinks.

I don’t know about you, but my favorite Starbucks drink changes often, but only if I’m in the mood to switch it up. If you are a non-coffee drinkers out there or those who like to try a drink without it, you will love this post. Who doesn’t want to be able to indulge in all those fall flavors without added bitterness? This brings us to my top drink:

1.) Pumpkin Spice Creme

All the talk about the pumpkin spice latte made me crave something similar. The pumpkin spice crème is delicious. I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again – this drink is like heaven in a cup. It is like pumpkin pie, but with vanilla. This is one that I wholeheartedly recommend that you try. For coffee drinkers looking for something like this, you can add a few pumps of mocha or espresso.

2.) Caramel Apple Spice

This is Starbucks’ take on a classic autumn treat. For those of you who have never heard of this before or are unclear, the caramel apple spice drink is heated apple cider with cinnamon, whipped cream and a salted caramel drizzle on the top. These flavors combine to allow you cuddle up with fuzzy socks and a good book during a rainy fall day.

3.) Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino

While this drink is normally prepared with coffee, it can be ordered without it. Without coffee, it is a cold slice of pumpkin pie in a cup, which is perfect for those warmer autumn days. With coffee, be prepared for a taste similar to the pumpkin spice latte on ice. This one is definitely on my list!

4.) Guava Iced Tea Lemonade Refresher

I have not had this drink myself, but I am told that it is a drink that is for either the autumn or spring seasons. This drink is incredibly refreshing, and it brings a splash of summer and tropical flavors to those of you missing those warm days. This drink can either be ordered sweetened or unsweetened. For similar beverages, click here to view my post on Best Summer Starbucks Drinks.

5.) Butterbeer Frappucino

Calling all Harry Potter fans! This drink is not known by many, but is amazing in the fall and winter. It tastes like fantasy and halloween all in one with hints of caramel. This can be ordered with or without coffee and is a wonderful addition to your day. A small or medium size of this drink is recommended due to its robust flavor.

Bonus: Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Muffin

My favorite Starbucks bakery item is by far the pumpkin spice muffin. It is full of flavor and covered in flax seeds (which makes it a little healthy). In the middle, you will find cream cheese. This may or may not sound appetizing, but I assure you that it is delicious. It has 350 calories. \

If you enjoyed this post, I would love it if you dropped me a comment! What are your favorite Starbucks drinks? Let me know! Next week, join me on the blog to see a high school/college hack on how to stop procrastinating. In the meantime, you can sign up for the Busy and Beaming Community so that you never miss a post. See you next time!