[Chelsae Anne | Photography]

SWEATER, TANK, SUEDE SKIRT (similar style here), YSL BAG: (c/o) Neiman Marcus/HEELS: Nine West – more styles here/BOW: J.Crew – sold out/LIPSTICK: Marc Jacobs “Cora Cora”

Ah, the holidays. T-Minus 3 days until Christmas Eve. I’m home in Texas. It’s chilly. Most of my shopping is done. A few gifts need to be wrapped and placed under the tree. Tonight I’m seeing friends for a few drinks, followed by lazy days at home watching holiday movies with my parents and my mom’s new puppy (she’s adorable, by the way).

This time of year has a special meaning to me. I get to see people I love, the ones who know me best, see my friends and rethink the coming new year. The older I get, the more I realize the holidays are about love. And the more I focus on this, the sweeter my time at home becomes.

I’ve learned to pay attention to small joys during the holidays, no matter the stress or challenges that may exist with being home and answering for the millionth time, “yes, I’m dating.” Things like debating politics with my dad (and letting him win). Ordering good ole’ Tex-Mex. Going grocery shopping with my mom because she wants company. Reuniting with friends from high school over drinks. Those are the treasures. Those are the simple moments that make the holidays special. Not what presents you get. Unless it’s a Saint Laurent Sac de Jour Baby Grain Leather Satchel in Blush.

It’s easy to lose sight of this. It’s easy to become consumed with unrealistic expectations of what the holidays should be. Instead of celebrating simple joys and being grateful for this year…

Keeping tonight’s post short and sweet. To shop today’s outfit, scroll up and click the pink links above!

And lastly… what do the holidays mean to you?

Xo, Stephanie