It’s been a weird, trying, exciting time as of late and I’ve been in dire need of making some changes. I started with my hair because, as any movie with a strong female lead making changes in her life will teach you, that’s where you should always start. Also, my stocking caps couldn’t hide the mullet growing out of my head and a haircut was necessary. So I’m back to being a brunette. It’s going to take a while to get used to again, but my scalp is already thanking me.

Next up: New ink. I had been wanting a new tattoo since moving here last September (ok, since the last tattoo I got, let’s be honest) but things got busy and searching for the right shop became an overwhelming task due to my pickiness. So, when a friend asked if I wanted to accompany her to get a Friday the 13th tattoo, I looked up the shop she was going to and decided it was finally time for me to get my first tat in NYC. I can’t believe it’s taken me over a year to make it happen, but it was well worth the wait.

I had been wanting a Where The Wild Things Are tattoo for a long time, but when Maurice Sendak passed in May, it moved to the top of my “tattoos wanted” list. Sendak’s books, WTWTA in particular, were such a core part of my childhood and their messages have remained with me as an adult. If you haven’t heard Terry Gross’s fantastic look (listen?) back at her interviews throughout the years with Sendak on Fresh Air, it is highly recommended listening. I sobbed my eyes out for at least half of it.

Big thanks to Megan at Magic Cobra for doing an incredible job on my arm.

Now, since I was there already and the Friday the 13th deal was $20 for some fresh ink, I figured I may as well get the unicorn (designed by Megan) just for fun. I haven’t gotten the Planet Unicorn theme song out of my head for two days now.

Don’t worry, the changes I’m making aren’t just on the outside. The biggest steps I’m taking towards being my best self are on the inside and I’m determined to make 2014 the stepping stone to ultimate life radness.

And without further ado, here is your Christmas Treats mixtape: