Hot Cocoa Bar

One of my favorite holiday traditions is setting up my annual hot cocoa bar. I first started in 2013 after getting the idea from a blogger I followed, so this year marks its 4th appearance. Back in 2013, I mentioned that we're not much of hot cocoa fans and that's still the case. Although we do enjoy a nice steaming mug while setting up the Christmas tree. However, I like being able to offer a seasonal beverage to guests when they visit amidst all the holiday activities.

My hot cocoa bar has evolved over the years (As has my photography...at least I hope!) and I think I like it more this year than any other year. Half of the Black Friday shopping I did was at Anthropologie stocking up on festive goodies for the bar. (The other half was Christmas PJs at J.Crew, to be honest.) I truly cannot wait to enjoy some hot cocoa by the fire and Christmas tree (but not a Christmas tree on fire!) in our matching monogramed mugs with my boyfriend. I'm sure we'll be watching The Holiday, our favorite Christmas film.

Monogram Mug | Mitten Shakers | Gingerbread Snowflakes | Marshmallow Snowflakes | Fair Isle Ball Garland | Reindeer | Tray (Similar)

Deck the Mantle

I'm not usually one to "skip Thanksgiving", but without plans until the evening before, I decided to spend my Thanksgiving Eve decorating for Christmas (and baking gingerbread). Over the last few years, I've accumulated quite the Christmas decoration collection and even just getting the boxes out of the closet brings me so much joy! I generally spend my down time in my room, but during the holidays when the house is decorated, you can find me in the living room by the fire! I've been counting down to Christmas for months (because my boyfriend is visiting for 2 weeks over the holidays), so finally being able to decorate for Christmas has been quite exciting. Needless to say, I went a bit crazier than normal and actually let Christmas seep out into other areas of the house, not just the living room.

Birds | Stockings | Nativity Scene | Merry Christmas Banner | Red Beaded Garland | Holly Spray

December 2016 Goals

{ S P I R I T U A L }

November 2016: Set up a plan for K2 and put together the necessary materials. 2/2

December 2016: Go to church every weekend this month.

{ F I N A N C I A L }

November 2016: Get my credit card's outstanding balance under $1,000. 0/2

December 2016: Get my credit card's outstanding balance under $1,000.

{ R E L A T I O N A L }

November 2016: N/A

December 2016: Have an Elf-inspired date night while Luke is visiting.

{ S O C I A L }

November 2016: Do something nice for a friend. 1/2

December 2016: Plan a gathering with friends.

{ M E N T A L }

November 2016: Finish a book. 2/2

December 2016: Read before bed 3 nights a week instead of watching TV.

{ P H Y S I C A L }

November 2016: Finish the See Your Strong Challenge with 25 points. 0/2

December 2016: Do 30 minutes of activity (according to my Fitbit) 3 days a week.

{ P E R S O N A L }

November 2016: Only get Starbucks once a week. 0/2

December 2016: Only get Starbucks twice a week.

{ P R O F E S S I O N A L }

November 2016: Be at the desk 30 minutes before every class starts. 2/2

December 2016: Change my attitude.