The definition of aromatherapy is “the use of fragrances to affect or alter a person’s mood or behavior.” So during the chaos of holidays take a few moments to relax with some scents of the season.

Let’s face it. No matter how many times you tell your friends and loved ones what you like, you’re bound to miss out on a few of the gifts you were hoping to get. So after the frenzy of the holiday, why not plan a little shopping trip for one and treat yourself to an end of year pick-me-up.

Think back to all holiday seasons past and the trips you make to and from the attic, to and from the home center, up and down the ladder, and the thought is bound to cross your mind, can’t I hire someone to do all this this year—a holiday decorator, perhaps? The difference between you and a professional is the difference between having “something nice and having something fabulous,” explains Scott Rothenberger of Scott Rothenberger’s PLACE. “Designers often look outside the box for solutions and give you something that you could have never thought of on your own.” Possibilities are brought to light and the creativity flows.

I’ve never really loved Valentine’s Day. There’s always so much pressure to make sure it’s perfect. Too many expectations, if you ask me. I’ll admit, I’m sure I’ve hinted to past and present Valentines that he should try to make an effort but it always ends up creating some sort of tension or awkwardness. It’s not like I’m asking for a million-dollar date night!

Ah yes, today is the long-awaited, strangely popular Groundhog Day. Good ole Punxsutawney Phil, who lives in the town library by the way, predicts our weather’s fate courtesy of his shadow (or lack there of).

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas! Especially with the recent snow we’ve received. This is absolutely, hands down, my most favorite time of the year. I was already listening to Christmas music before Thanksgiving even arrived. The outdoor lights are up and glowing, the tree is fully decorated, and holiday-scented candles burn as I prepared for all that is the beauty of the season. I am in full-on Christmas mode!

I can’t believe it, but the holidays are rapidly approaching and you know what that means. Holiday shopping madness! Every year, it seems like Christmastime sneaks up on me earlier and earlier. As I prepare for the gift-giving season, I have decided that I will try to complete the majority of my shopping at our wonderful selection of local retailers.

OK, so my life (personal and in LVStyle land) has been so busy lately! I don’t even know where to begin, but I guess I’ll just give you a quick rundown.

I suppose I should welcome in the new month this week. Hello, July! Growing up, Fourth of July weekend was always typically the same. There’d be some sort of picnic or cookout involving family and friends and good food. Then, as dusk would settle in, we’d load up the car with folding chairs and blankets plus a cooler with snacks and sodas and drive to a nearby fireworks show. Although I’ve noticed the number of family members at these picnics has dwindled over time, it’s still an enjoyable day as always.