Merry Christmas, Dear Friends!

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas!

I'm taking a short break, but will be back on the first of the year.

May we all experience

 peace on earth and in our hearts

this holiday season!

Reflection

This morning I worked on a little stitched sketch of two cats.

I was feeling very grateful for little things,

like my trusty Singer sewing machine,

my love of fabric, texture and thread,

and my ability to create.

Then I turned on the TV...

and felt so sickened by the news which was streaming -

a school shooting in Connecticut -

a kindergarten classroom -

a horrific tragedy.

As a former kindergarten teacher, I am literally shaking.

As a mother, I am heartbroken.

As a human being,

like many others,

I am asking why.

I don't usually write about religion here,

but I have to say,

may God bless the victims and the survivors of this tragedy.

May God bless all of us 

as we contemplate the sadness of this day. 

Still Twinkling

Today I worked on another Twinkletoes and brought one as a gift to a holiday luncheon.

Good friends, delicious food, great conversation and much laughter -

another lovely stop along the way to Christmas!

Thank you, Pat,

for a wonderful get-together!

Savoring the Days

I'm so grateful for this holiday season, and for having the time to savor each day leading up to Christmas. For too many years it has been a crazy time, with stress and hectic days stealing the joy.
I'm grateful for traditions, for the family and friends who are the soul of the season and for the glow that seems to be filling my heart these days.

I've done a bit of decorating. Today I did the mantle and its swag...

the outdoor wreath is hung...

the porch is decked with lights on this foggy night...

and my helpers are snoozing on the sofa.

Angus really throws himself into his naps...

Rosie meets Santa for the first time...

and later hangs out in the coat closet!

Things are peaceful here as small traditions take shape 

and twinkling lights work their magic.

I hope that all is well with you as you celebrate or prepare to celebrate your family holidays.

Wishing you a joy-filled week!

Touches of Whimsy

All around my house there are touches of whimsy that make me smile -

a funny angel that stands on my studio windowsill, with a tiny bird clipped on top...

a little tin angel which my daughter carried home from Mexico for me

many years ago in her jeans' pocket...

a  snowman who was on a card I gave my mom one Christmas. 

She had it on her dresser mirror for years and it is now tucked into the side of mine...

a cat picture from a calendar on the side of a bookcase in my studio,

and underneath a tiny cat who tops a letter opener.

I'm thinking a lot about my mom recently. It's 5 1/2 years since she died, but she still lives on in my thoughts every day. We shared a love of laughter, even silliness, and when I see something especially funny, I think of her and how we could make each other laugh.

Isn't that a wonderful way to remember someone dear?

Here's hoping you find something to make you laugh today!!

A Heartfelt Holiday Season

I had a very restful weekend, after being so tired when writing my last post!

Yesterday I visited the Open Studio of two members of our Artists' Collaborative. Wish I had taken photos there, as it was such a warm, inspiring space. Here are some of the items I purchased:

a fabulous pincushion, made by the artists' daughter,

and a handmade silver clay pendant and earrings. I know I will be wearing these frequently!

I'm taking a hint from my blogging friend Simone, and taking a "slow walk" to Christmas -

savoring the season and trying to get things done at a more leisurely pace than usual.

I'm also taking the month to appreciate the good things this past year has brought. I think it's a good time to do this, as we prepare to welcome a new year. 

I've been blessed with good health, a loving family and wonderful friends.

How fortunate I am.

I'm planning to include something I'm grateful for in every post this month.

Here's wishing you a terrific day!

Twinkletoes

I had designed this ornament for last night's craft fair, bit never actually completed any to sell.

This is my prototype , on different backgrounds -

I had seen something like this somewhere, but for the life of me I can't remember where!

She is still in process, but I love her whimsy!

What do you think?

Last night, the fair I was part of was a lot of fun, and I sat with several great people.

 We laughed a lot, but sadly, I sold only a $2 magnet! Actually, I even gave away a picture!

Today I am more tired than I can ever remember being - I've been creating like crazy since September. Since then, I have participated in a craft fair, our town's Paint Out (helping), Art Walk, a solo exhibit and now last night's craft fair! This is a very weary person writing this! lol

I'm planning to slow down in December, decorate a bit, finish some ornaments for gifts and enjoy the season with my hubby. Our daughter is coming from Toronto for Christmas, which I'm really looking forward to!

Meanwhile, I'm reflecting on all I have to be grateful for, and hope to post some of these thoughts on my blog for December.

One thing I know I'm grateful for is my wonderful group of blogging friends - yes you!

Soon I'll be having a giveaway, or maybe even a series of giveaways, so check back!

Here's wishing you a wonderful weekend!!