Santa’s Cheat Sheet: 10 Must-Have Gifts for Christmas!

Let’s be honest: nobody wants to be standing in a store on December 23rd, sweating through their coat and clutching a candle they don’t even like. Consider this your cheat sheet. Santa’s got a whole workshop, but you’ve got me!

1. The Luxe Robe

Who doesn’t love wrapping up in something soft and luxurious? A plush chenille robe with an embroidered monogram says, “I see you, and I know you deserve to lounge like royalty.” Pick a classy neutral shade and let that little initial do all the talking. It’s the perfect gift for someone who takes relaxation seriously.

2. Timeless Jewellery

Sparkle never goes out of style. Think elegant earrings, a delicate bracelet or a classic necklace she'll treasure for years. Choose something that suits her personal style rather than chasing the latest trend. A little timeless sparkle is always welcome at Christmas.

3. The Travel Kit

For the woman who loves to travel, a well-organised toiletry kit is a practical and stylish companion. Look for a quality case with room for everyday essentials and a little extra space for those holiday discoveries. It's a gift she'll be happy to take along on her next adventure.

4. Wireless Headphones

For the music lover, podcast enthusiast or anyone who simply enjoys a little peace and quiet, wireless headphones are a practical treat for him or her. Look for a comfortable pair with great sound and a battery that lasts. Perfect for commuting, travelling, working out or tuning out the world for a little while.

5. The DIY Gift Basket

 

Sometimes the best gifts come in a basket! Build one around his or her favourite things: pampering goodies, gourmet snacks, coffee essentials or a cosy movie-night collection. It's personal, fun to put together and works for almost anyone. And yes, you may have to taste-test a few things for quality control!

6. A Handmade Christmas Card

A heartfelt message deserves more than a “Merry Xmas 🎄” text at 11pm. Grab some watercolours, pretty paper, a favourite photograph or a few handmade touches and create something from the heart. It doesn't have to be Pinterest-perfect. The time, thought and personal message are what make it special. If it's a little crooked, call it rustic! And one more thing....make sure you drop some dinero inside. :)

7. A Box of Really Good Chocolates

You can hardly go wrong with a beautiful box of chocolates. Choose truffles, pralines or an assortment of irresistible favourites. It's a lovely little indulgence on its own and an easy addition to almost any gift. Just remember to buy enough to share!

8. Grandma's Memory & Comfort Box

Give Grandma a gift she'll treasure long after the wrapping paper is gone. Fill a photo album with pictures of the grandchildren, family gatherings and all those special moments. Add handwritten notes and captions, then pair it with a pretty pajama set and soft bedroom slippers. It's an invitation to put her feet up, relax and reminisce. Have tissues handy; there may be a few happy tears!

9. The Wine Lover's Evening In

Put together a whole evening of wine and good food for him or her. Pair their favourite bottle with a selection of cheeses, crackers, grapes, olives, nuts and other charcuterie-board favourites. Add a beautiful serving board and cheese knives, and you've got a gift that says, “Sit down, relax and savour the moment.” Just don't be surprised if you're invited to join them!

10. The Hair Makeover Surprise

For your bold fashionista bestie, why not surprise her with a fabulous new hair look? Take a photo of her and experiment with different wig styles, lengths and colours using AI. When you find the one that makes you both say, “THAT'S THE ONE!”, track down a wig that brings the vision to life. Just double-check her preferred fit and quality before buying. Bestie points: maximum!

A Little Christmas Reminder

Personalised and made-to-order gifts need extra production time. Order early, check processing times and confirm delivery dates before you hit “buy.” Nobody wants a fabulous Christmas gift showing up in January. That's not a gift; that's an apology!

 

Cheerio! 

It’s A Wrap!

 

 

Let’s be honest: we’ve all had that morning. The alarm betrayed you, your hair woke up and chose violence, and you have exactly eleven minutes to look like you’ve got your life together. Enter the head wrap, the original “I woke up like this” with a plot twist. One scarf, a couple of twists, and suddenly you’re giving effortless luxury instead of where are my keys and why is there a sock in my purse. Whether it’s a silky chain-print scarf knotted at the side, a bold African print piled high like a crown, or a royal blue jersey wrap swirled into a low bun, a wrap says “I meant to do that” every single time. Nobody has to know about the eleven minutes.

Here’s the part your hair will love: wraps are protective styling in a cute outfit. Tucking your strands away keeps them safe from wind, friction, and the endless tug-of-war with your collar and car seat headrest (that thing is out here sanding down our ends, and we let it). Pick a silk or satin scarf and you get even more love, because those smooth fabrics don’t snatch moisture or snag your ends the way cotton can. Rocking locs, twists, or a bun underneath? Wrap right over them and your style gets a glow-up while your hair takes a little vacation. No notes, no meetings, just vibes. Protection and a compliment? That’s a two-for-one, and we love a bargain.

Now let’s talk versatility, because one scarf has more range than your favorite actress. Fold a square scarf into a triangle, tie it at the nape, and you’ve got a classic, polished look that works from brunch to boardroom. Want drama? Twist a long wrap and pile it high into a top knot like a crown that pays rent. Want chill? Wrap a patterned scarf around a loc bun like a headband, throw on some pearl drops, and congratulations, you’re now dining in Paris, even if it’s the patio at your favorite spot and the “view” is a parking lot. Prints like florals, chains, mudcloth, and bold botanicals do the heavy lifting, so your outfit can stay simple. White button-up and some gold hoops? Done. You’re dressed, you’re fine, and you’re giving

A few tips to keep it easy and memorable. Fabric is your friend: silky scarves slide into shape and shine, while stretchy jersey grips and stays put, so it won’t slip off mid-sentence and leave you holding it like a lost puppy. Volume is your friend too: a little twist, a tuck, and a gentle pull to puff things up makes it look intentional and expensive. Accessories are the cherry on top: big hoops, statement earrings, or a chunky beaded necklace frame the face like a museum piece. And finally, practice once when you’re not in a rush, because your first attempt should not happen in a parking lot with seven minutes to spare. Then pre-tie your favorite style and keep it ready to slip on when life gets loud. A wrap isn’t just a fix for a bad hair day, it’s a whole mood! And that's a wrap, y’all. 

 Cheerio!

Fabulous! - Wrapped in a Bow

Hello, Lovelies!

Let me introduce you to the Imperial Princess Diana Bow™! This gorgeous bow is my tribute to the queen of effortless fashion and style. We just happen to share the same birthday and a love of style. July 1st. Imagine that!

Though she is no longer with us, Princess Diana remains an inspiration to me and countless other fashionistas. Her style was timeless, her presence unforgettable, and her ability to make fashion look effortless? Legendary!

This bow is bringing drama, mystery, jewels, and sophisticated fashion-forward-ness!!!!

Rich black velvet, glittering embellishments, silver detailing, and a striking faceted jewel centerpiece give this design a generous helping of glamour. It's perfect for injecting drama, elegance, sparkle, and attitude into your creative projects.

Look at her werk!!!! ✨

And now for the fashion possibilities…

Imagine this beauty on a luxurious tote, featured on a statement blouse, or adding a little royal drama to your fashion design. You could use this digital design element for journals, fashion mockups, prints, mugs, tees, and so much more.

Your imagination is the limit!

 

Love Imperial Diana? Get the original jeweled bow design at JD Luxe on Etsy.  Now go forth and make something fabulous, Lovelies!

Cheerio! 💜

50 Shades Of Wrong

 

 

 It was my first day of Drawing Anatomy class and I was nervous. So nervous that I showed up 30 minutes early. I thought that perhaps talking to my professor before the class would help to settle my nerves a little. Ten minutes later, instead of the professor,  a blonde haired medium built, very attractive man with an athletic frame walked in. Since it was only the two of us there so far, we greeted each other and immediately struck up a conversation. This guy was so confident and so very easy to talk to to!  We discussed all manner of subjects including our home countries, he is from Scandinavia and I am from the Bahamas which made for some pretty interesting questions and stories. Before we knew it, the rest of the students began to come in and our Bob Ross look -a -like teacher was ready to start his class. He introduced himself and welcomed us to out first Anatomy class and then he asked the model for the day to come forward so we could begin. Would you believe the model was the guy I was prattling to for 30 minutes??? So let's call him "Tom for discretion purposes".  Tom got up, expertly peeled off all his garments and stood before us in ALL his male glory. As if that wasn't bad enough, he now had a friend he could "focus" on in the class to make him feel more comfortable. ME.  

First Pose, a straight armed plank with both legs positioned as far as the east is from the west......while intently staring me down. That pose combined with gravity, which was very present and at work, told a visual story that I would gladly pay to delete from my brain.  I was praying for dear life at this time. "LORD please let this cup pass from me". You see, in the Bahamas, we wear ALL our clothes and we take pride in that. Though unspoken, we believe that nudity is for married folks and babies. This is why my fav TV show is Naked and Afraid.  I can't do Naked without the AFRAID.  I was raised that way. 

 Everyone was drawing except me. I was mortified and  grossly uncomfortable. The embarrassment was almost tangible. Thankfully I had managed to start sketching but man was I struggling. Now Tom was on his second pose. A Cirque du Soleil contortion of sorts. He balanced on his shoulders with his legs pointed straight up towards the heavens, then, slowly with deliberation, he parted his legs as far apart as they could physically go.  And yes, STILL looking at me.  Always looking at me.

 

 

 By this time my professor noticed that I was not progressing very well so he came over to see what the problem was. He look one look at my drawing and noticed that my sketch had a blank space where Tom's private parts were supposed to be. He tapped my sketch book aggressively with his pencil, ...."Have you ever seen a man with a blank spot there????"  Without waiting on me to reply he looked me dead in the eyes and said very sternly,

  "DRAW IT!"   

So now, I was given a command and what I was not going to do is destroy my 3.9 GPA for this absurd drama. 

 All I can tell you is, I gathered my composure, pulled myself all the way together and I started drawing. I focused and drew. To this day, it was one of the hardest projects I ever completed. It was straight up spiritual and psychological warfare combined with the unfamiliarity of drawing the human anatomy, which is a difficult undertaking in itself. Despite it all, I decided to just do my best. Tom was in his element by this time doing a full split and smiling like a cat who confiscated all the cream. He totally misread my new found focus on him. He did not know that I was now locked in only because of my GPA.  That I was determined to NOT let 50 Shades of Tom defeat me. 

Needless to  say I got through that class and I passed with flying colors!  3.9 GPA intact. I also learned a very valuable lesson. One person's comfort zone could be another person's Achilles heel.  Tom is a very confident man. clothed or unclothed.  It was I who was not  ready for Tom the "bare version" and he was totally oblivious of that. He was in his comfort zone, I was not. And so from that point on I NEVER judge a person based on their appearance or underestimate what they are capable of, good or bad.  I let them Show me who they are first. 

 

Cherio!  

I Love Gray Beards And I Cannot Lie

 

 

Calling all lovers of immaculate beards, let's gather here. This is a non judgement zone, nothing but L O V E darlings.  Now before I continue, I want you to understand something. I am not only a beard lover, I am a confirmed and registered connoisseur of the BEARD. Yes, I take my passion seriously. 

My fellow follicle enthusiasts already understands why I feel the way I do  but for those struggling to understand my obsession, here are 7 reasons why the beard reigns supreme....

1. The beard is like "man makeup". It takes a man from "My name is John" to "Say my name!"

 2. It looks so touchable and sexy… almost irresistible.  A good looking beard can make a girl sit on her hands just to control them. Do not ask me how I know this...

3. It is the epitome of masculinity!  

4. it smells soooo darn good when groomed and treated well.  

5. The color communicates power, refinement, swag, elegance and confidence 

6. It has that ‘grown man’ vibe.  Like this man is matured and knows who he is. 

7. A full immaculate beard looks rich and healthy. It is a natural glow-up for most men

 Of course this is just a condensed list for you newbies...

 

And now I have some tea for you...yeah, fresh tea from last week concerning a particular immaculate gray beard wearer. 

So, I was looking all cute in my outfit and "feeling myself" while on my way to see a girl friend who owns a store located in a mini shopping center. As I opened her shop door, I felt like someone was watching me. I turned to my right slightly and entering the store next door was the most regal, fine, striking specimen of a man rocking the most glorious white beard that instantly had me clutching ALL my pearls for dear life. We both froze like as if flash-frozen in time for at least 40 seconds. He did not move and neither did I. Not even a blink. We did, however, have a had a whole conversation with our eyes. He was like "dang woman, you are looking so fineeeeee...... and I was like brotha, (blushing furiously) you just snatched all my pearls!... but you can keep them." And then I went inside. By this time, thankfully, my legs remembered how to walk again but he remained frozen even as I went inside. 

It took me a few minutes to regain my composure. The image of that guy kept playing on a loop in my mind, this guy's beard game should be declared lethal in all 700 islands and Cays of this, my beloved Bahamas.  It was that beautiful. I  recounted the story to my friend when I eventually stopped fan girling and she laughed until she teared up.  She asked me why we did not speak to each other.  I still don't know really, maybe because we were both paralyzed by shock and awe??? 😂  Sounds crazy but this actually happened last week.

So now that I offered you receipts in the form of this incredibly weird but true story you see how much I love a beard. A graying or fully gray beard in my opinion is simply top tier!!! I look forward to being married again one day and when I do it will be to a wonderful Godly man equipped with THE MOST immaculate gray beard. And, I do hope he likes me to touch his beard because if he does not, I will be a natural terror to his facial hair for the rest of his life. As soon as we are married, his beard becomes MINE. Just like the precious in the Lord of the Rings. So in advance, I am asking those of you who know the virtue of prayer, please pray for my future husband's strength in the Lord! He's gonna need it. 

 

Cheerio! 

 

Choose Life

 

Hello Lovelies!!!!

Yesterday was the 7th of October, a regular day, except it marked the day my husband passed exactly six years ago. I tried to be more upbeat, but I was struggling real hard, so I just decided not to “people.” I actually called and asked folks nicely to give me space. Thankfully, they did.

As a result, I was able to spend the whole day reminiscing and resting. Something I had not done in a very long time. To my great surprise, what started out as a solemn “leave me be” day turned out to be hella fun. I read old blog posts and laughed myself silly. I cried too, but mostly happy tears. Through it all, I realized that this gal was built strong. Teflon ain't gat nothin' on me!!! 🤣 (In my best Denzel Washington voice.)

I saw so many facets of myself, battles I fought and won, epiphanies I had, lessons I learned, beautiful moments I experienced, and all the incredible things I accomplished and created, like my gorgeous “Choose Life” tee shown above. More on this later.

Seriously, like WOW!!! Wanda, girlfriend, you did that!!!! I am so very proud of myself. But what I am most proud of is that while I appreciate the occasional pat on the back, I don't NEED anyone else to co-sign this proud feeling. I am PROUD all by myself. No assistance needed.

Cheerio!!! 

 

Choose JOY

 

Hola lovelies!

I thought about what I would say in this post—my first post after years of not blogging. Life was life-ing the heck out of me. 😂 It has been one seemingly endless roller coaster ride, one that has tested my endurance, faith, and peace.

In 2020, during COVID, I lost George, the love of my life, whom I frequently blogged about here. It was the most traumatic experience of my entire life, but through my strong faith in God and the support of my family and friends, I am happy to report that I survived it.

I wish that was all—that it is the end of the story—but it is not.

Two years ago, I shut down everything to take care of my dad, who had dementia and other health challenges. It was a most grueling experience, but a rewarding one as well. I got to spend quality time with my dad before he passed at the beginning of this year.

That almost broke me.

Almost.

But here I am—thriving again, grateful to God for His blessings and for another chance to live this beautiful life.

Why do I say that despite all of the sadness, loss, and pain?

Well, I realize that without darkness it is impossibe to even perceive light. It is the weight of the sadness that made me appreciate and CHOOSE joy.

Oh yes.

I choose joy.

And I want to share that joy with all of you.

There are so many stories and experiences I can't wait to share with you, so stay tuned!

The best is yet to come.

Cheerio! ❤️

---

One Side Hustle That Pays!

Hello lovelies! Today I want to introduce a side hustle that I have been using successfully for more than 4 years.  My only regret is that I did not do it sooner. :)  The side hustle that I am talking about is Fiverr. 

When I first heard on Fiverr in 2010 I was instantly put off by the $5 jobs I saw offered on the platform. As an experienced designer I felt that a $5 job was not an option for me. Years passed and then one day after I relocated to the Bahamas and essentially had to start all over, I decided to give it a try. I really needed extra money. Imagine my surprise when after just one week jobs started coming in and not only that, I was able to send custom orders to my clients which were all whatever price I decided was fair. Turns out, $5 is the very base price for an item on Fiverr and you can set your own price. Needless to say, I was encouraged to keep going and now I can truly say as a "Fiver Select" seller with a 5 star rating that it was one of the best decisions I have ever made.

 

 

 MY STORE 

 

How Fiverr Works 

You do not have to be a designer to work on Fiverr and you do not have to do labor intensive work to earn money. Just find something you like to do that you do well, set your price and open your shop. Don't overthink it. My simple jobs start at $15 but Fiverr has 3 tiers of prices/packages you can set, my highest is $50. My Median package is $30. Many times people request custom packages though and they can be hundreds or even more than a thousand. It depends on what your customer needs.

To better understand how Fiverr works, there are two parties involved: 

• Sellers: A seller is anyone looking to sell a service to earn money. Simply put, sellers are freelancers showcasing their skills and services to prospective buyers. A seller lists their services on Fiverr alongside the amount they charge.
• Buyers: A buyer is anyone looking to purchase a service on the platform. Buyers can use the search tool to browse seller profiles and find the ones who meet their requirements before placing an order. The bottom line is that buyers hire sellers to accomplish specific tasks.

One of the things I like best about Fiverr is that you can get help creating anything on their platform. From interior design to ghost writing, web design, architectural drawings and video creation to some pretty unusual gigs...like yodeling for instance. Trust me, you can find whatever you can imagine and then some. :)  Fiverr also has multiple ways to make money on their platform.  Sign up and invest in some of the talented people there. Many businesses use the design services to grow their businesses and most times it is at the fraction of the cost they pay elsewhere. This allows for business opportunities and networking and most of all, PROFIT! Start using Fiverr to grow your business, trust me it is one of the best strategies I have ever used!

  3 WAYS TO START EARNING TODAY! 

 BECOME AN AFFILIATE

1. You can sign up here for Fiverr's affiliate program if you would rather earn money that way. The sign up is pretty simple and you will have all the information and tools you need at your disposal to succeed.

 

 

2.  Have videos for tictoc and youtube created for your customer base through Fiverr

 

3.  Get your own design ideas created for prints,  tees and mugs. Sell on Etsy, Redbubble or shopify 

   

Well, I do hope this helps you to try Fiverr, it is worth the effort of signing up. Your pocketbook and business will thank you for it!

 Cheerio!