“The hardest part of skating is the ice.” (-unknown)

I’m finally home “for good,” (at least for a while) and it’s that time of year…

We’re bringing out comfy blankets for snuggling near a toasty fire in the fireplace.

It’s a time when traditions are dear…

When we head up to the attic to dig out boxes of simple trimmings that make a cozy home.

I enjoy pulling out the things we’ve collected over the years,

gifts from friends and family,

things we’ve made, and things that were made for us,

and the simple things that just make our house feel like a home: grandma's holiday tablecloth and pretty flowers and greens...

Despite the current dismal news reports over economic woes, and all the myriad troubles that seem to be bubbling up and rife throughout the world, I want to hold onto the beautiful things we do have in life: not so much the material things we have, but the people, places and memories we hold dear. Happy Holidays, all!

Before the ice is in the pools,
Before the skaters go,
Or any cheek at nightfall
Is tarnished by the snow,
Before the fields have finished,
Before the Christmas tree,
Wonder upon wonder
Will arrive to me!

(- Emily Dickinson)