Christmas Cheer

This year I have placed a few Christmas decorations out early. They have a calming effect on my nerves. Every time the phone rings I think immediately of Mother. It's hard to describe the emotional strain that comes with the imminent expectation of death. 

Also by showing them early you might see something you'd like to try.

an ornament in an empty frame

 Christmas photos on hallway shelf

made another rejoice message using old books

tiny tree under glass dome

Accepting What Is

Today my mother had her 92nd birthday. 

Although there were cards, a cake, flowers, box of chocolates, and loved ones by her side, it was not a very happy birthday. She cannot be the mom she once was who dearly loved a good time. Her smiles are few and far between. Her body and mind are wearing out from the Alzheimer's disease. The long good-bye continues...

Christmas Holiday Ideas

Two new displays, thanks to ideas from Pinterest.

We finally got around to cleaning out the attic clutter that Uncle Jim and Aunt Geneva had left in that storage space. The jars are holding some of the old bulbs and balls that were part of their Christmas decorations. Some vintage tinsel and tree toppers were taken to the booth. 

Keep warm.

Stay well.

Looking Back

Looking back through photos
 I came across
 several past Christmas decorations
 and
 decided to put them together
in
this 
post.



New ones are coming. 

Project Update

I am still working on my advent calendar project. Had some bumps in the road. To get the number of tags I wanted on the board I had to turn it sideways rather than up and down. Ran out of white push pins. Also final decorations are still being considered. But I believe this will be very close to the final version.


Dollar Tree ornaments, vintage ones, and those with special meaning comprise  the calendar. Below are explanations for five.

pewter one purchased soon after daughter Lauren Ashley was born

 tiny vintage one found at an antique mall

paper rose made by friend Mary

angel wings from a figurine of my mother's

little silver bells from a strand that belonged to Geneva Clowes, a special aunt

Before there were Pinterest boards I had saved the clipping below. It is a lovely advent calendar that made me want one. It is still my favorite!

  

Three Texas Souvenirs

Little things mean a lot. They remind you of certain people, of shared experiences, of good times.

 Bracelet from Marissa and Jessica, two of Pennee's friends

It's really lovely! And meeting them was especially lovely!!

Ceramic letter in vintage fabric design from Pennee
One of her many talents is finding unique gifts.

Trying it out in different places...

not sure where it will end up.

Tree from craft bazaar

It had that vintage look that I love.

Road Trip

A  four day trip to Celina, Texas, was just what Corkey and I needed. We really like the area where Les and Pennee have built their dream house. Celina has a wonderful mix of ultra modern and old charm. I felt right at home in the old town square. Also felt at ease in their lovely new home. 

Love the layout of their house. It also has a formal dining room, a study, a media room, a dance practice room, and plenty of bedrooms and baths. When we visit, we have a bedroom reserved for us. Here's Kiera in "our room."  

   

A painted scene on the side of a building shows Celina in the 1930's. Efforts are being made to save the older buildings and keep them open. There's a coffee shop, a couple of antique stores, gift boutiques, and more.

This yellow building was full of antiques and collectibles.

 Another store offered interesting merchandise. 

It was a very windy day as you can tell from my hair.


The library had a children's section that had colorful wall illustrations of popular books. Kiera and Chloe are sure to be regular visitors.

There was one more event that Pennee and I were able to squeeze in on Saturday. The local high school was having a bazaar to raise money for 

different programs.

Pennee and I both found something in this gentleman's  booth.

All his Christmas decor was 50% off.

I came home with three treasures...one from the bazaar, one from Pennee, and one from Pennee's friends Marissa and Jessica. Look for these in my next post.