Day 7 : Ryn Bray - These are a few of my favorite things....

Hi there, Ryn B here... I am the person behind StyledByRyn.com. My professions  are wardrobe styling & jewelry making. My Passions are to help women feel beautiful about themselves, to enjoy life, to go shopping, to have coffee, to be with friends, to give, to always be a better daughter, friend, sister, granddaughter & Christ follower. : )



My favorite things...

Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens
Bright copper kettles and warm woolen mittens
Brown paper packages tied up with strings
These are a few of my favorite things

Cream colored ponies and crisp apple strudels
Doorbells and sleigh bells and schnitzel with noodles
Wild geese that fly with the moon on their wings
These are a few of my favorite things

Girls in white dresses with blue satin sashes
Snowflakes that stay on my nose and eyelashes
Silver white winters that melt into springs
These are a few of my favorite things

When the dog bites
When the bee stings
When I'm feeling sad
I simply remember my favorite things
And then I don't feel so bad

[Repeat all verses]
So these lyrics are from a movie, by the name of The Sound of Music... I love this movie for so many reasons, but these lyrics seemed only fitting for this post, time & season! : )



Christmas is a time of giving! I love to give! my friends & family can vouch for that! I have already finished my shopping (which is unheard of, But totally worth it!) Okay, well I still have gift for my friends, but I can so do that in a short time... Once I figure out what to buy ; / But the hard part is not telling those who I bought presents for what I'm getting them! I think my favorite thing on Christmas Morning is watching their faces as they open their gifts from me... I love that almost as much as watching the groom's face when the bride walks down the aisle... But it is a magical moment then, and when I replay it back in my head.. Such a wonderful feeling : )

I can only imagine, what The Lord was feeling when he saw the wise men, sheep herders, Joseph & Mary stare in awe of such a gift, that the Lord bestowed upon their hearts and the hearts to come! It was the ultimate AWE moment! And such a gift to give! No one can out do that gift! ; ) I don't think anyone would want to!



These are great for gifts or to be added to your own Christmas List : )

Here is my list:

Downton Abbey Series:
Oh my gosh, can't say I have ever been addicted to a TV series, quite like this! It's sooo good! One of the reasons I love it, is the costuming! Omgosh, So gorgeous!!! I want a relationship like Mr.Bates & Anna, and Lady Mary & Sir Matthew... So good I tell you, so good! I recommend it 110%! (I'll let  you in on a secret, I want to speak in a British accent after watching! hah!) The third season comes out on Jan.6th 2013 on PBS... I would say, you should check out and watch the first two seasons before it, so that you are caught up and not wondering what is happening.

Hulu: HERE & PBS: HERE

Mac Lipstick:
My favorite go-to brand for lipstick! I have always been fond of lipstick ever since childhood. But I do have about 10-15+ tubes of their lipstick! I adore my lips when My eye makeup is simple & my lips are the focal point. : ) Go to the Mac store or a Mac counter... They can help you! : ) My new ones that I want ever so badly: Shanghai spice & rebel...
(spoiler alert: I hate their Lipglass, blech! It's too sticky/tacky in my book, and when in wind and your hair is down, it's the worst!

MAC: HERE

Oldnavy Rockstar jeans:
Some of the BEST JEANS Ever! I have 4 Pair of them! They hold their shape, they have 19% Elastic/spandex and SUPER Comfortable!  I wear mine all of the time (in black)! They now have polka-dots & animal print ones! : )

 

(You can buy them: HERE)


My favorite earrings ever. Maude C. has the best earrings! I wear mine ALL of the time... I've pretty much given up on other earrings. : ) They go with any outfit, They are light weight, And they're so stylish! And they're Leather! My Fave!

(You can buy these HERE)



My favorite rug. I bought this for my studio! It's perfect for my space. It looks like a huge cable knit throw. So unique! I love it!

West elm: HERE

The cutest tunic ever! I just bought this as a Christmas gift for myself ; ) in white! So cute! I've admired since this past march! So I bought it! Yippee! Haven't worn it yet... : /

Anthropologie: Here

What I want for Christmas, is this iPad case! How cute is this?! It's adorable right? I mean walking around with what looks like a book, buuut... Babam! It's an iPad! Hahaha! it's so quirky, it's cute!

Uncommon Goods: HERE

Scarves! I love scarves...probably as much as Hilliary Duff! She's always wearing one! But I do. I really do! They are so compatible with almost any outfit!

 

 

These are some really cute ones: HERE & HERE



This Ring... SOOO so cute! I love the point so unique! I would wear this everyday for sure! : )

Find it: HERE

Another item I added on my Christmas list: Ray-ban sunglasses... Mmm I love me some Ray-Bans!

Nordstrom: HERE

I received a headband like this one, as an early Christmas gift... and I absolutely love it! I can wear it with so much! Just to add a special touch to any outfit!

Anthropologie: HERE

Such a cute pair of shoes that you can actually wear and walk in without looking like a duck!
and in such a fab color too! Gold!!!!

Anthropologie: HERE

 

WarbyParker Glasses. I have seen these on so many blogs and sites, and friends of mine have them. They are so cute! a retro chic aspect. I'm most likely going to order mine in January. a start to a whole new year... With reading glasses...

But on Warby Parker, they have perscription glasses for $95... Can we say bargain? and for just five days, you can borrow five pair for free! (you'll still need to give them your credit card for sucurity purposes)

 

Warby Parker: HERE

 

 

A friend of mine has this book. When I first say it I fell in love with it. I loved the look of it, the thought of it & Lady who wrote it! If you want to develop or deepen your prayer life with God. This book will help you do so! She is so anointed! I can't wait to order this book, so excited!

 Lynne Hammond - Devotions for the praying heart: Prayer notes 'Limited addition"

 

 

 

Lynne Hammond: HERE

 

I love the Carol Burnett Show! I used to watch the re-runs as a kid! Carol Burnett is like the Kristen Wiig of the 1970's-1980's... She hiliarious! This was like SNL that was clean... And when Bob Mackey designed her clothes/costumes : ) What an awesome Christmas gift that would be! : )

                                                                      Find it: HERE

Who doesn't like Magazine subscriptions?! I really like People Stylewatch, Instyle & Lucky! Those are the best for Fashion & fashion related articles.(plus they have really cute outfits to copy! These magazines focus on fashion & only Fashion!

 

                                                                     Find them: HERE
(P.S. If you sign up for Ebates.com, You receive cash back through websites you order from, and this website is averaging to 26% of your entire order and the keep tabs on the orders you make and two times a year they send you a big fat check : ) Use me as a referral: Maudecclothing@gmail.com , Please & thank you! )

I absolutly love this Eyeshadow! It's my favorite!!! I can just wear a simple eye, apply grce eyeshadow, some eyeliner, and tons of mascara and be done with it! It's such a preety color! It has such a shimmer to it that is so worth it to wear! Try it out, you will not regret it! It's the perfect everyday color : )

  Bare Escentuals grace eyeshadow: HERE

 

 Also, Here is an amazing website that I am connected with, you should check it out & connect with girls all over the world: Global Girls If you need prayer, please don't hesitate to ask!

 

This is the season of giving..

If you don't have Jesus in your heart, I encourage you to make a home in your heart just for Him. You won't regret it! He will give the most amazing love you have ever experienced in your lifetime! and for those of you, that have strayed... Go back to Him. He loves you a great deal.

 

Love to all of you and your loved ones on this very special season! : )

-Ryn

Day 6: Katelyn Kurth - Holiday workout amidst the hustle & bustle...

Katelyn is passionate about helping others live well and enjoy their life by educating them on how to naturally take care of their bodies.

She loves being active - hiking, biking, and playing tennis are a few of her favorites - and she is quite the sports fan, which she attributes to growing up with three brothers. She also enjoys shopping and fashion. And her favorite place to be is tucked away in the mountains.

 

 

 

20 Minute Exercise

The holidays are a busy time of the year, with Christmas shopping, parties, and more! There are lots of things that can take your attention during the Christmas season but it doesn't mean you have to set aside your workout routine.

Did you know you can achieve a great workout in just 20 minutes? We are talking quality versus quantity, folks. And I am specifically talking about a type of exercise called Sprint 8. This technique is exponentially superior to regular cardio workouts and will give you great results.

So what is Sprint 8? Well, have you ever sat and watched children play? Did you notice how they naturally move? They don't run marathons, but rather sprint about at high speeds for short amounts of time, resting in between spurts. This is essentially Sprint 8.

Your body was designed for this type of movement, and in response it produces human growth hormone (HGH). This is what helps kids grow and adults maintain optimal health and youthful vigor. On the other hand, low intensity long cardio workouts can produce the hormone cortisol. This stress hormone tells your body to store fat, particularly in the lower abdomen area. I think we all would agree that the purpose of working out is to reduce fat, not store it! Performing Sprint 8 you will also help you target hard to reach muscles that are not effectively reached with most other exercises.

The key to performing Sprint 8 properly is to raise your heart rate up to your anaerobic threshold. Keep pushing at maximum effort for 20 to 30 seconds, and then rest for 90 seconds. You can perform these sprint intervals walking/running style or on a bike.

Here's a summary of a Sprint 8 workout:

1. Warm up for three minutes

2. Exercise as hard and fast as you can for 30 seconds. This is your sprint time. You should be gasping for breath and feel like you couldn't possibly go on another few seconds

3. Recover for 90 seconds, still working by either walking or pedaling, but at slower pace and decreased resistance

4. Repeat the high intensity exercise and recovery 7 more times

5. Cool down for 3 minutes

Perform Sprint 8 two to three times per week. Trust me, if you do these at your peak performance you won't want to do it more than that.

Here's another exercise that will get your heart pumping and can be performed in less than 20 minutes.

- 30 jumping jacks

- 5 walking push ups    

- 25 high knees

- 10 crunches

- 10 squat jumps

- 30 butt kicks

- 5 walking push ups

- 10 sit-ups

- 30 jumping jacks

- 1 minute wall sit

- 10 crunches

Repeat 3 times

Watch These Videos for more info:

(1. Walk out push-ups)

(2. High Knees)

(3. Squat Jumps)

(4. Butt Kicks)

Have a Very Merry Christmas! ~ Katelyn  

 

Day 5: Cortney Hart - Amp up that Christmas List! Your hair will thank you.

When I was eight years old the Lord dropped in my heart that I would be a hairstylist. I'm probably one the the most laidback hairstylists you'll ever meet. Although I tend to be a bit of a perfectionist I don't like "fuss" and I would never want a client walking out of my chair or a friend leaving my house sporting a look they could never duplicate. Just several days ago I cut off 6in of my hair and I LOVE it!! Once again I have healthy hair!! Since my recent chop I am determined to keep my hair healthy and gorgeous, even though color will of course be applied several times in this up-coming year. Below I have listed several of my favorite prodcuts that will help you maintain the integrity of your hair throughout this holiday season and into the new year!

A professional shampoo and conditioner is comparable to the base and top coat of nail polish. If you color your hair, it is especially crucial. I often hear comlplaints about the price of the "good stuff", but you have to look at is as an investment, you use less and it will last you 3X's as long! Aquage Strengthening is my FAVE!

 

(For More Info: Click HERE)

Aquage also makes a heat resistant/shine spray that smells amazing, protects your hair AND adds immense shine. It is a must! Especially for those fancy Christmas parties you'll be attending.

(For More Info: Click HERE) 

There is a new product out by L'Oreal Professional called Mythic Oil Milk. I cannot even put into words how much I like this product so just try it for yourself!! Spray it in your hair when wet and style as desired. You WILL notice a difference!

 (Click to Buy: HERE)

CALLING ALL DEEP CONDITIONER LOVERS!!!! Two Words for you! POWERDOSE TREATMENTS! These little protein-packed bottles are like liquid gold. By the 8th treatment your hair is promised to be restored back to a virgin state. These are a must try! (Mythic Oil contains several of the same ingredients so use together and your guaranteed brilliant results!)

 

 

 (Find this product: HERE)

 

For all of these products, Google local salons in your area that carry them. You won't find these in your Wal-mart or Target.

One more thing before I go! I've had an itch for a violet/berry lip for the holidays. I just discovered "Hang Up" by MAC. It's my new fave, and featured in my picture!

 (Click to buy: HERE)

Hope this was helpful to you all! Merry Christmas!!!!

XOX- Cortney Hart

p.s. Sometimes saying a simple "yes" to new ideas/prodcuts can open a whole new door. Think of the outcome of Mary's simple "yes" in Luke 1:38. Oh, how it hung her world! Ours too ;)

Day 4: HannahBeth Folden - A Warm Winter Welcome

Hi, I'm HannahBeth,
I enjoy decorating, love people, and am southern to the core. My roots are planted deep in North Louisiana, but my heart is in Fort Worth, Texas. Since my big move to the Lonestar Star state, I have become quite the weekend hostess for my dear friends and family. Make no mistake, rooted deep in the heart of every southern woman is a sense of hospitality. As much as I wish I could lavishly spend on these guests, my budget does not always allow for big spending. If you expect guests this holiday season, here are a few simple and inexpensive tips for opening your home.

Mi Casa es Su Casa.
My number one priority with guests is to provide a peaceful environment during their stay. Blankets draped in the living room nonverbally invite guests to make themselves at home and take a load off in the living room. Guests need to feel welcome in the whole house, not just the guest room.

Stock the Guest Room.
A simple snack can include a bottle of water and Kind Bar set in the guest room. Often your guests are in-and-out all weekend, and let’s be honest, who doesn’t snack on trips.

Set out an IPhone Charger.
Almost everyone runs off of an iphone these days. Set out an extra charger and alleviate the hassle of digging to the bottom of thr suitcase.

Mirror, Mirror on the Wall.
A mirror implies a “hotel suite” and allows guests to their own personal space to prep for the day. If you don’t have a mirror, try a thrift store and finish with a fresh coat of paint.

Provide Closet Space, Hangers, and Iron:
When guests arrive, give a quick tour of your home and take the opportunity to offer closet space. At some point during your guest’s stay, show them where the iron is located so they can make themselves at home in the mornings.

Make Breakfast.
This is one of the BEST tips I can offer, so take notes ladies. A thoughtful breakfast can transform your humble abode to feeling like a weekend escape.
Trust me.
Prep a simple quiche the night before, or if you are running low on time, splurge on muffins at the bakery. This allows your guest to enjoy their morning, enjoy your company longer, and save money.


Splurge on Gourmet Coffee.
It’s another small price to pay for a blissful stay. I buy a bag of Southern Pecan coffee beans and brew a fresh pot before my guests wake each morning. Guests then take home any leftover beans, and in true southern fashion, no one leaves empty-handed.

 
                                                           (All pictures Via: Pinterest)


I hope these tips make your guests feel right at home. May your time with your loved ones be filled with the Love of God this season.

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and much Love,
                                                                           Hannahbeth

Day 3: Holly Isely - How to Make A Basic Outfit Festive with accessories

Hello All! My name is Holly, and I am so excited about this Christmas Countdown! What a neat idea, right? Many thanks to Lauryn for allowing me to be a part of this Christmas season on her blog!

I know during the Holiday season we're all jetting off to family gatherings, holiday parties, and church events (and taking LOTS of pictures). So, I wanted to bring you a few simple ways to jazz up your favorite winter/Christmas ensembles.

One of my favorite outfits for this season is a large, over-sized sweater and black skinnies or jeggings. Below, I will show you different ways to play up or play down an outfit for your holiday ventures. A simple addition of a scarf, combat boots or top knot hair style, can totally transform your look. Of course, use these tips to fit your style. You may not have a black and gray sweater, like the one I'm wearing, but you may have a favorite cream cable-knit, beautiful, fur vest, or even a holiday dress! These are merely suggestions to switch up your favorite outfit, for many occasions!

Here I am wearing a black and gray over-sized, striped sweater with black jeggings and black flats. You could definitely wear this as is, and it would be a cute and simple outfit.

Sweater: JC Penney (Thank you Black Friday!)

Jeggings: Levi Brand

Flats: Urban Outfitters

Now, that we've got the "base of our outfit", so to speak, let's accessorize!

Here, I decided to trade out the black flats for a pair of metallic silver combat-style boots and some thick boot-socks. I really like the way the flowy, girly sweater and the masculine military boot, contrast with each other.

Socks: Not sure of the brand, however you can find socks like these at most stores, places to check - TJ Maxx, Marshalls, Forever21 & Target.

Boots: TJ Maxx - Brand "Dirty Laundry"

 

 

I find that adding a cute slouchy beanie to the mix, gives an effortless, casual feel. I have been on the search for the perfect slouchy beanie and finally found this beaut! You definitely don't have to wear a charcoal gray beanie with an outfit like this. You could wear pretty much any color, due to the rest of the outfit being neutral.

Beanie: American Eagle

 

 

Chunky knit (or crochet, in this case) scarves are one of my all time favorite holiday accessories. They can totally liven-up an outfit and add some amazing color. Here is a rusty orange-colored scarf that is sure to keep you warm, while you're at the Christmas tree lot, or Home Depot...wherever you're purchasing that green pine, for the season!

Scarf: Crocheted by yours truly, scarves of this nature can be found at most stores, check out: Target, Loft, TJ Maxx, Marshalls, Kohls, & Forever21

 

Brown, riding-style boots, are the epitome of the fall and winter season. These are so fun and casual, and would be great for a night out looking a Christmas lights, with the family or going out for hot chocolate with friends! Especially liking the red detailing on the zipper.

Brown riding-style boots: Kohls (I think) last year.

 

I am generally a pretty simple person, when it comes to jewelry. I don't usually wear much at all, BUT this Agate Druzy Rock necklace from MaudeC.etsy.com (And you can buy the necklace HERE) is amazing and I couldn't leave it out! It's so simple and dainty but still a bit rugged and unfinished looking, which I think contrasts well with this outfit!

Rock Necklace: Maude C.'s etsy shop

Ankle Booties are a great alternative to heels. They generally have a nice thick heel and aren't too high, so most people are able to wear them. Fun side note, you could get a pair of cute patterned socks and tuck them in under your pants. That way when you sit down and your ankle shows, rather than your leg showing you'll see the cute socks! Anyway - these are really nice and comfy and I wear them all the time, with pretty much everything!

Booties: Kohl's

The TOP KNOT. I'm sure everyone and their sister has heard of, seen a tutorial for and even tried out the top knot hair style. Admittedly I was a tad bit skeptical when I first saw it hit fashion magazines, and pinterest. But, one day, I just decided "NO, I am going to try this out!" and I've never looked back! I wear this hairstyle, on average - about 2-4 times a week! It's so quick and easy and takes no time at all. It's a great way to keep your hair out of the way and if you're working with 2nd or 3rd day hair, this is perfect for you!

 

 

I hope this gave you all some ideas for your holiday wardrobe! I like to think of getting dressed, as shopping my own closet. Take "inventory" so to speak, of your closet, to see what you've got hiding in there. You may have some pieces that you've either forgotten about or weren't sure how to wear. I say, just play around with them and see what you can come up with, to spice up your holiday wears.

All pictures were taken by the wonderfully talented Lauryn, herself! Thank you all for checking out this post and Merry Christmas to you and yours!

XOXO,

Holly

Day 2: Lauren Leeper - a Christmas beauty fashion blog....

Where to even begin... All I've ever known as a job has been in the fashion or beauty industry. I've experienced it from all different aspects. From television makeup to makeup sales to personal shopping to women's retail, just a little bit of everything. I have come to realize one of my biggest passion's is helping women feel beautiful and confident in who they are as a woman and as a child of God. So I think it's only appropriate to pair beauty and confidence in Christ together in the spirit of Christmas with my favorite things to beautify the inner and outer self!

 

Hands down my favorite book of all times... Sorry it's not related to Christmas, but you should definitely ask for it for Christmas!

( Via: Amazon)

Read it, it will change your life! Expose lies and learn how to replace those beliefs with truth! Every woman has at least a few incorrect thoughts about herself that need to be changed. Get strong and beautiful on the inside with this bad boy of a read.

Current beauty obsession... Also not related to Christmas, but should make it on your list...

(Via: Sephora)
Uhhhhhhmazing stuff! It will increase the length and fullness of your lashes like you will not believe! Helpful hint, only use the fibers on the top lashes, it tends to stick together when you use it on bottom and top. If you want a dramatically long lash, keep layering on the fibers in between each coat of mascara. BAM! LASHtastic!!!

Winter and Year Round Fashion Inspiration...

(Via: pinterest)
Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen are fashion genius'. From their amazing handbags and statement sunglasses to their chic grunge style, I am always inspired. Effortless and fabulous at the same time, perfection.

Beauty in your belly...

(Via: Sam's Club)
You have not lived, until you've eaten this delicious treat! Yummy and full of antioxidants, the perfect pair! Put some of these out in a glass bowl at your Christmas gatherings and they're sure to please. These are available at Sam's:)


And last but not least, some things to beautify your surroundings, especially during CHRISTMAS, yes these favorites actually pertain to the season...

(Via: Pinterest)

(Via: Pinterest)

I keep pine cones and antlers in my casa year round just because I like a cozy cabin feel, but they are definitely a staple all over the house during Christmas as well. I put them everywhere!!!!


Hope you've enjoyed hearing about a few of my favorite things and I hope you love them and feel more encouraged and beautiful from them! MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!

~ Lauren Leeper

 

Day 1: Brie Groves - Christmas Coats

Bio:

Brieanna is a fashion blogger who enjoys the simple things in life: Long walks on a warm evening (Starbucks iced caramel macchiato in hand, of course), an afternoon at home with my hubby, a weekend on the lake, a lunch date with a girlfriend, a good manicure, the smell of new shoes, DIY projects, finding a *really* great item on sale, planning parties, etc. She lives in Minneapolis, MN with her husband Michael, whom she works in full-time Ministry. Her hope is that as she shares the things that inspire her most, they will inspire others as well!
You can find her on her Swank & Dapper Blog...

There are so many wonderful things to love about Christmas and the Holiday season that could literally write a whole blog post just listing all of the things that I love about Christmas.... But I won't make you sit through all of that!! So, I'll focus on one topic for now.... Fashion! I really do love holiday fashion, because it gives you an excuse to glam up your look a little bit more than usual. What girl doesn't love to get glammed up every once in a while?! The holidays are filled with parties, gatherings, and events that present ample opportunity to show off some holiday style.

But, what good is a gorgeous holiday outfit if you don't have anything to wear with it out in the cold?! (Ok, ok... I know some of you probably live in warm climates, but where I'm from you need a good arsenal of COATS!!) A good coat is probably the number one staple piece during the winter months, especially during Christmas time. A coat doesn't have to be something big and bulky. There are so many flattering shapes, colors, and fabrics out there that would make a beautiful addition to any ensemble. Actually, a great coat can even be the centerpiece of your ensemble. Pair it with a pair of tights and heeled booties, and you'll be looking fabulous!

Here, I've shared a few of my favorite coats for winter! It's always great to have a coat that's a good basic (like in black or gray), but like I said... It's also fun to have your coat be a statement piece! So don't be afraid to go with something a little more vibrant! If you haven't gotten yourself a coat for the winter season, check out some of these styles to get some ideas. Hope you enjoy!! And Merry Christmas! :)

                                                                                   ( Polyvore )