2022 is upon us!

And while 2021 was definitely better than the dumpster fire that was 2020, I still feel like there is room for improvement. Especially for me. Namely –

• Achieving decent hair volume (velcro rollers turned out to be a cardinal mistake, thanks TikTok!)
• Addressing my frown and forehead lines (is this the year I try Botox? thoughts are welcomed)
• Finding the perfect pair of baggy jeans appropriate for someone in their *cough* late 30’s *cough*
• Doing anything related to working out/eating less Cheez Its and Little Debbies
• Striving for better work-life balance
• Focusing more on having fun and letting go

Ok that got semi-serious kinda fast. And I do not believe in setting typical new years resolutions for myself when I already have enough on my plate. But I do think that at least pondering ones upcoming personal goals is not a bad exercise right?

This New Year’s I will be going to dinner with my best friends and also celebrating my birthday. Here are the necessary components to making this occasion a smashing success (other than childcare, obvs).

First, a chill-pill. Lately I have really gotten into a few CBD products, especially these gummies from Keoni.

I have been taking one gummy after work, or anytime I feel like I could use some extra anxiety reduction. At first I was not sure if I felt anything at all, but after a few days the first thing I noticed was much less pain in my back. Typically after a long day of sitting at my desk, my back is super sore, but these have definitely been helping. I also just feel a nice “chill” feeling (not “high” in the least) throughout my whole body. You can read more about these gummies on their website, and they are also available on Amazon.

Next – a killer shower. In the Stars is literally my FAVORITE scent from Bath & Body Works and this moisturizing body wash does not disappoint!

It is thick, rich and leaves the skin delightfully scented. It also works amazingly as a shave cream.

Next it is best to do a sheet mask – I swear these things make all the difference in the world! They make makeup go on smoother, they plump the face – they do it all. Here are two I am super excited to try out from Soo’AE.

The Sweet Pink Bubble Mask (only $2.25!) helps remove impurities as it bubbles up to help soften and replenish the skin. This Panda Eye Brightening Mask (only $3!) targets dark circles and works to de-puff and revitalize the eye area. YES PLEASE!

One of my favorite beauty hacks of all time, are these amazing eye drops from Rohto. They take ALL the red out of the eyes and make the whites appear sparkling. I do not put these drops in very often (only for special occasions) and definitely talk to your doctor if you wear contact or have sensitive eyes.

A great bottle of champs/bubbly wine is a MUST when primping for NYE. Recently I tried this stunning bottle of Stella Rose Asti (I mean, how festive right?!) and deemed it the perfect “getting ready” drink. This Italian sparkling wine is semi-sweet, fruity, gluten-free, low-cal and low-alcohol. How amazing is that?!

When you order from Stella Rosa Wines, your bottles are shipped very securely ensuring they arrive in perfect condition.

Setting the “getting ready” vibe is key – and if you know me, you know I LOVE a candle. Right now, I am obsessed with this one from Broken Top Candle Co. This candle smells absolutely divine, with notes of jasmine, sweet cream, and driftwood. The throw is out of this world and easy fills a large room without being overkill. I have loved melting this candle as a welcome reprieve from all the holiday scents that are popular this time of year. It is fresh, warm and very soothing. Check out all the scent choices from Broken Top Candle Co. – there are so many good ones to choose from!

After the mood is right, it is time for makeup of course. An amazing lipstick is obviously a must. This bright pink shade in Hollyweird, by Urban Decay is really gorgeous.

Lastly, a fun outfit is a must! I like to opt for something cute but not super uncomfortable. This year, I happened upon a pair of faux leather joggers at – yes, Walmart. I paired it with a sparkly red tank (very Wet Seal circa 2004) and have myself an outfit for about $50!

And lastly, makeup removal and skin care! After a long night out, washing my face is the last thing on my mind. That is why I have been loving this convenient cleansing glove from Prato Botanico. Double-sided and made of bamboo, this ultra-plush glove is perfect for getting deep into pores to quickly remove stubborn makeup. It is super soft and really great for sensitive skin. I am never going back to just using my bare hands to wash my face!

And speaking of Prato Botanico, I have just started using their smoothing day cream and am beyond impressed. The ingredients are out of this world (hello hyaluronic acid, aloe, almond oil and grape seed oil!) and it is lightweight, yet SUPER hydrating and nourishing. I am totally in love so far!

I hope each and every one of you enjoy your New Year’s. No matter if you are sitting on your couch watching the SATC re-boot and eating leftover Christmas cookies, or attending a fabulous party. I love you all, see you in 2022!

*Some of the items above were sent to me complimentary for review. All opinions are my own.