From Power-Ups to Peppermint: Quincys Birthday Bash and the Start of Simply Sinas Holiday Season

Hey yall! I know, I know… I disappeared on you again. I swear it is never intentional life just gets busy, and before I know it, I have blinked and a whole week has gone by. But this time, I have a good excuse. We spent ALL DAY Saturday (and when I say all day, I mean from where is my coffee to why are my feet throbbing) at Epic Universe for Quincys 9th birthday.

Yall, it was magical. Super Nintendo World was everything we dreamed it would be and more. Imagine walking into Marios world the bright blocks, the question mark cubes, the sounds that make you feel like you are seven again, racing through levels with nothing but snacks and confidence. Quincy was in heaven, but if we are being honest, I was to

We collected coins, raced karts, and explored every nook and cranny of that place like we were trying to save Princess Peach ourselves. And don’t even get me started on the food- The Toadstool Cafe was chef’s kiss!. The other three parks did not disappoint either, but let’s be real, Mario stole the show.

We loved it so much we are already talking about season passes. I mean, if you are going to power-up once, you might as well do it all year, right? Besides, it gives us something to look forward to when the everyday routine starts to feel a little too adult.

Now that we officially survived the birthday weekend, yall know what that means it is holiday season. Around here, Christmas starts on November 1st and runs straight through until Thanksgiving Day. We pause just long enough for turkey, mashed potatoes, and pie, and then Christmas fires right back up until January 1st.

So yes, technically, I am already in full Christmas mode. I have got candles burning, holiday playlists on shuffle, and a peppermint mocha in hand as I type this. Winter in Florida really is something special we get the lights and the holiday magic without the icy roads and blizzards.

Although this morning I walked Carson to the bus stop and could see my breath. Excuse me, Florida That is not what I signed up for. I want my sunshine back, Mr. Weather Man. Still, it did make me want to come home and light every single candle in the house, so maybe there is a silver lining.

Alright, confession time I did the exact thing I said I was not going to do. I opened a new Etsy shop.

I know, I know. I said I was focusing on my main store (and I am), but Etsys traffic is just too good to pass up. Do not worry though I will be keeping both shops open. Think of it like having two front porches same cozy vibe, just different doors to welcome yall through.

So if you want to check it out, here is the new link: Simply Sina Blog Store. Go favorite the shop, share it, tell your friends, tell your mama help me spread a little Simply Sina sass around the internet.

I have been working on some new things too more wax melts, candles, and yes, even some of my photography prints are going up. Yall know I cannot just stick to one thing. If I am not designing labels, I am editing photos or trying to figure out how to make a candle smell like a Sunday nap after church. (Spoiler I am close.)

Anyway, that is the latest from our little corner of chaos. Quincys birthday was perfect, Mario was a hit, the holidays are here, and I am just feeling extra grateful for my family, for the fun, and for all of you who read these posts, comment, and keep cheering me on.

Thank you for sticking around through the quiet spells. I promise not to stay away too long this time (though, lets be honest, sometimes life has other plans).

Here is to peppermint scented candles, cozy nights, and finding joy in all the in-between moments.

XOXO,
Simply Sina