Overall, December wasn’t a bad month. We had fun in our new though temporary neighborhood by attending a progressive dinner we were invited to, then a Christmas tree lighting in a local park, and other seasonal activities. We also made several trips to crafts stores and such, looking for holiday items and gifts we could customize, and that was more fun than anticipated. We also made time to visit other neighborhoods to see the holiday decorations, which is always a favorite seasonal activity of mine.

Christmas was peacefully enjoyed at home as it was shockingly cold here (we’re talking actual freezing temperatures), and we certainly didn’t want to venture outside for our traditional post-meal walk. I kept it relatively simple this time with an incredibly delicious baked salmon (rubbed with seafood spices, garlic, dried tomatoes, capers, and a mustard sauce I made), along with roasted garlicky potatoes and garlicky steamed green beans — we love our garlic in this household. The rest of the day was lazily spent reading and watching movies.

On the downside, I’m not too happy that we transformed into somewhat hermit crabs this past month, and spent more time at home than I would have liked. I was intending to visit a few places farther from home but due to some unforeseen circumstances, as well as just being overall tired from lack of sleep (Enzo is keeping us on a “tight” sleeping schedule these days), we just decided to stay put. Alas, I tried to keep myself busy…

What I read

The Woman in The Library by Sulari Gentill. Overall not a bad book with some mysterious and very interesting turns. However, I was astonished by some details that just didn’t make sense like the lack of perception from a supposedly brilliant, yet somehow, clueless and overly emotional student of psychology major at Harvard? That aside, I recommend the book.

The End of Normal: A Wife's Anguish, A Widow's New Life by Stephanie Madoff Mack. Riveting and heartbreaking, this book left me thinking of the good, but also the evil mass media brings. Incessant reiteration, obsession, and sensationalism of the same stories, along with straight-out “harassment” of the same people have dire consequences, and this book is proof of that. Not that we haven’t experienced this before with Princess Diana, Britney Spears, and now, Meghan Markle. Obviously, as a society, we haven’t, and let’s be real, won’t learn from it or change our ways... With that said, I recommend this book.

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo. I have heard so many times how amazing this book is, that I am jumping into it tonight as it just became available via Libby. I can’t imagine it will disappoint.

What we watched

As our rental came with Roku, we took advantage and watched (and re-watched) whatever was available and found interesting. Though, this reminded me of why I don’t want a TV — too much of a distraction, and even wasted time. I lost track of the movies and even some shows we watched this past month — that’s how many there were. However, here are the ones that stuck in my mind.

The Bishop’s Wife. An old film that I really enjoyed.

Charade. I admire Audrey Hepburn just as much as anyone else, however, the films I watched featuring her so far haven’t been my favorite, well, except the fashion, of course.

Indiscreet. Another old film that I really enjoyed — I found myself laughing quite a lot.

Weekend at Bernie’s. Silly yet funny.

Mad Money. Loved it! Diane Keaton and Queen Latifah (plus other formidable actors), what’s not to love?

Love, Actually. I don’t remember watching it before, and since I’ve been seeing it mentioned all over the internet, I had to. What is there to say — I loved it — the opening got me all teary!

Notting Hill. I don’t remember watching it either unless it was years and years ago and it just escaped my mind. Again, really enjoyed it.

Tiny House Hunting. We just had to watch this, and well, it’s... something!

Love It or List It. We’re currently catching up on the latest season. I love Hilary’s designs and that is the reason we watch it.

What I shopped for

Apart from serendipitously finding the dress I intended to wear for Christmas but ended up not to as it was brutally cold for Florida, and this multicolored leather basket bag I’ve been wearing non-stop since receiving, I’ve been obsessing over freshwater pearls this month. There are so many incredible and stunning creations out there, and I couldn’t stop myself from getting this baroque choker (I love baroque pearls). I’m contemplating this one as well, and while I’m still waiting for my earrings, check out these, these, these, these, and these I’m eyeing.

My Favorite product this month

It’s been a stressful year, and my hair has been falling more than usual. This past month I was reminded of this hair conditioner that works magic in my case and starts showing results, aka new hair growth, 2-3 weeks after use. It also made it grow in length, which is not necessarily what I want, but growth is growth. After I rinse it, I apply my favorite hair oil to detangle and protect it from split ends.

What I’ve been looking at longingly

This sheer sleeve applique sweater is stunning and oh-so feminine!

This pleated dress is a showstopper.

These Sarah Flint black velvet and crystal pumps are so chic! *Save $50 with code SARAHFLINT-BABLOOMINGMAGNOLIAS.

This long lady jacket in a wool-blend boucle is just gorgeous.

This lady jacket in maritime tweed is also a dream. What can I say… I’m a sucker for lady jackets….

Curious/funny reads

20 Unique Christmas Traditions from Around the World.

20 Unique New Year's Eve Traditions From Around the World.

Do you dare drive this list of the highest roads in the world?

149 Funny Dog Memes That Will Make You LOL.

16 Pics: Most Beautiful Wildlife Photography For The Delight Of Animal Fans.

I hope your December and the holidays treated you well.

xo,

Em