The Holidays

I love the holiday season. 

There is something about the feeling you have during this time of year. There is excitement and the feeling that new things are possible.

 This year we had a change. Some of our loved ones were missing. We experienced the loss of a grandma and a dear young friend gone too soon. The feelings of sadness we still have put an unhappy side to the holidays. We tried to remember and celebrate them. They will always be in our hearts and missed everyday.

The lights, the music and food. I love these things! Gathering with family and friends. The best! I wish this feeling lasted longer than the month of December! How could we carry that feeling forward? It has to be done without the Christmas tree and music! Maybe there is a way.

 

Let's remember the parts of the holidays that make us feel good and incorporate them into the months to come. Music that makes us smile, things in our home that are beautiful to us and make us feel cozy and relaxed. Then invite family and friends in. Enjoy food and their company. I think it will work! I'm in, how about you?

 

Now it's time to think about the approaching new year. How did last year go? What can be carried through to 2012 and what needs a change!

 My word for 2011 was START. Looking back, I think that word was a good one. What did I start? I started dreaming again. I started moving outside my comfort zone and I started paying better attention to my friendships. We had some obstacles to overcome and that slowed things down a little, but I do feel like I experienced change in my life because I had a word to focus on.

 

What will my word for 2012 be?  I want a word that reminds me to continue the things I started and keep the feelings from the holidays I love so much. A word that inspires change.

I am excited to begin 2012 with fresh eyes and new inspiration.

Road Trip

Today I went on a road trip with my daughter, sister and dear friend. The destination was Portland. More specifically, the Monticello. This is an antique store I consider one of my Happy Places! 

 Driving North, we found frost on the trees. It has been very chilly in the Willamette Valley.

We arrived at The Monticello and it was beautiful!

So much to see.

I love the whole store, but the atrium area takes my breath away! It is truly lovely.

 Auntie crowning the Princess!

We decided to have lunch right there at Monti's. I was so glad to spend time with my daughter.

 

 My sister Michelle on the left, me in the middle and my friend Debby on the right.

 

I so love visiting places like this. I am inspired by the creativity of others and always walk away with thoughts of how I can change my own home decor. The colors are usually neutral with a splash of color. Incorporating natural elements adds a simple beauty that is so peaceful. I could just sit an look!

 

 

As we headed home, we stopped in Bridgeport for a stroll through Crate and Barrel. Then we headed to Salem where we stopped for cake!

 

I love a good adventure and today was perfect. Thanks girls for a great day!

 

Hello Again!

It has been a long time! A lot has happened since June. Some very sad and some very exciting!

Although there is a sadness in my heart, I am looking forward to a festive holiday season. I hope to look for festive things to do and enjoy the company of the people I love. So here's to December, I hope you are a fabulous month!