I’ve been catching up on magazines and blogs and the latest Real Simple on happiness has really got me thinking. I’ve also been loving cupcakesandcashmere’s “things that make me happy,” plus I’ve been eyeing Jonathan Adler’s new tome, Happy Chic Colors decorating book, so happy is the buzz word for me as I enter the new year.

But first, the parties! As the classic song goes, What are you doing New Year’s Eve?

I’ve got this beautiful and simple hairdo (below) on the brain. It may just be the one I rock on NYE! From Martha, nach.

But even BEFORE all that New Year’s talk: Christmas!

Merry, merry everyone.

Lulu Organics Hair Powder has saved my ‘do many a time since I got my paws on a wee sample of it at hipster emporium, Urban Outfitters. I initially balked at the $40 price tag for 4.5 ounces but said hello! to the one ounce version for $10 at UO. Now, I can’t imagine a day without it: I use this stuff for those second-day hair days or when I’ve got to reset my helmet-head hair after my morning bike commute. I have it in Lavender/Clary Sage (the only scent for the travel size version), but it’s also available in Patchouli/Amber, Jasmine and Tuberose in the full size. Best part: it’s talc-free, and made with white clay, baking soda, USDA Organic corn starch and rice powder and Oregon Tilth Certified Organic horsetail powder and essential oils. (Fun fact: Talc is closely related to the potent carcinogen asbestos and is a skin irritant.) I’ve also found it useful for when you’ve overstyled your ‘do with gel or hairspray, allowing you to start with a fresh head. It’s going straight into my Bridal Emergency Kit and will be perfectly suited for pre-ceremony primping! Get your hands on it at Saffron Rouge (you get two free samples of other products with your purchase–score!) or at UO.