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Happy New Year! I hope you rang in the new year just the way you wanted. Like you're probably doing I'm doing some reflecting; 2012 was good to me- it has its ups and downs...from still feeling new in Boston, an unexpected goodbye to someone important to me and a wonderful welcome to someone else, difficult times at work, great traveling along the East Coast and more. I'm hopeful for 2013 and the past few days have been thinking what exactly makes me happy and it's simply less is more. The less I have and am consumed by the happier I am and easier for me to feel lighter and focused. When I feel bogged down by lists of clothes I want, unbalanced budgets, a headache from too many drinks, I feel dull and a lesser version of myself.

This blog has been a blast yet I think for now I'm going to take a break to focus less on the tweeting and number of followers and more on reading, running and cooking.

But please stay in touch while I'm on hiatus- hey, shoot me an email to even grab some coffee :)

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I have to be honest that I have not had the stamina to tweet, blog, or pin this past week. Things have felt quite insignificant following the tragic events in Newtown, CT and I just can't seem to shake the sadness. While not personally affected by the tragedy I can't help but mourn for those poor little victims and their families and get wrapped up into the political and social debates. I can only hope for change and a safer world.

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Think outside the box

 

Below are a few ideas of how to stand out from the usual suspects of red wrapping with silver bow...

 

 

 

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What's the word Wednesday

 

 

 

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...read the news? Obviously, we enjoy pursuing through our favorite blogs but do you also read the daily news? I saw this picture and thought does anyone read the newspaper at their kitchen table anymore or is it more so reading a few headlines on your iPhone before the train comes? I'm curious to hear how you catch the day's headlines.



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Holiday Coquito Cocktail

 

Sleigh Ride Cocktail

 

Sparkling Pear and Cranberry Cocktail

 

Candy Cane Mocha