Friday Favorites, and So Long 2016

It's kind of crazy, and exhilarating at the same time, to think that in less than 48 hours we'll be existing in an entirely new year. For many of my friends and family, as well as complete strangers on social media, 2016 can't be over fast enough; it's been a year marked by tragedy, from fatal, unjustifiable police shootings and a seemingly endless list of celebrity deaths to an historical election that proved to be the most controversial ever, and terrorist attacks that have left our hearts broken and our minds reeling. And Aleppo. It has been an ugly year, indeed. 

But I would be remiss if I let this, my last post of 2016, highlight only the misfortune and pain of the year without also mentioning the many wonderful moments and bits of magic that happened in the past 365 days. There was the victory for the Standing Rock protestors, the removal of the giant panda bear, green sea turtle, and humpback whales from the endangered species list, and Simone Biles (yes, of course, all of the Americans who won gold at the Olympics...but mostly Simone Biles). Scientists discovered a 100% effective vaccine against the Ebola virus, world hunger reached its lowest point in over two decades, and charitable donations in the US and other countries reached record highs. 

On a personal level, after two years of living apart and only seeing one another on weekends (due to my husband's job), we purchased our first home and my family is now living under one roof; both of my little girls are in perfect health and are as happy as can be; and I had a few breakthroughs and small victories with my writing. I'm looking forward to more growth, more opportunities, and more learning in 2017. And I'm wishing you all happiness, health, and prosperity in the new year! God bless!

This throwback look from Christian Dior--so perfectly '90s.

DIY marbled Oreos.

A wildflower champagne cocktail that would be gorgeous for tomorrow night's festivities.

This fly girl.  

A pink record player.