A New Year

  My family, both immediate and extended, are very close.  We are close relationally and logistically and share in the high and lows.  The past two years have been full of them....
Cancer victory and cancer defeat
Wedding vows said and wedding vows ended
Giving children wings to grow and watching children struggling with their demons
Hearts full of joy and hearts broken
Smiles and laughter, tears and rage
Despite it all I realize the blessing in it all.  The blessing is that I am standing here today stronger than yesterday and excited about what will come this year.
My word for this year is intentional.  I want to be intentional in my relationships, my mothering, my photography, caring for myself and others, and my blogging .  I welcome 2011.  I pray that it is everything that I need and that this year is everything you need .  Stay warm.

Decorating

I have been decorating for the holidays a little at a time.  My tree was up for almost a week with only 4 ornaments on it.  It's done now.  Here are some pictures to share...

You all have such wonderful ideas.  I really enjoy seeing all of your creativity!

Bon Voyage

Today I packed to vintage teddy bears and shipped them off to Japan.  I actually felt like I needed to poke holes in the box.  I thought they were very cute in their lovely green ribbons.  I do hope they love Japan!

One on One


The first day of December was spent working on items for a holiday show this Sunday.  It was a perfect day to do this since it poured rain all day with 40 mile an hour wind.  Just awful!  I did manage to win two very nice aprons a small holiday boutique that I stopped at.  There was a raffle and my name was drawn.
But the nicest thing I did today was spend the evening with my 15 year old son doing a little shopping and a bite to eat.  I jump at the opportunity to have some one on one with him.  We laughed and talked and it was all good.  My two older boys live in Colorado and I miss that one on one with them.




December

I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving.  We were Pa. bound with my family for the first holiday since my father passed away this summer.  Lots of emotion being felt by everyone but still a wonderful day.  Dinner was prepared by my sister who is an amazing cook.  I keep telling her to start a blog with her recipes and entertaining ideas.

I forgot to announce the winner of the holiday giveaway.  Three people commented before the cutoff so I picked all three.
My brother, my friend Christine, and Christina (soul aperture).  I hope you enjoy your ornaments.

Until recently my day job was in the bakery and cheese department of my sister's gourmet market.  She sold the market and while it was bitter sweet this is the first holiday season that I will not be completely stressed out.  I want to be present every moment to really enjoy this glorious time of year.  I look forward to seeing how you all celebrate.  Here's to a beautiful December.



Just a few little things I picked up in a little antique store in Pa.  Enjoy!