Holiday Decorating

Usually before Christmas arrives I will have moved some decorations around several times. Here are a few in place.

To be continued. 

The Big Tree

This year after the Thanksgiving meal there were excellent helpers to bring down the tree from the attic,  to assemble, and to attach lights and some of the movable Hallmark ornaments.

By the way, we had a wonderful Thanksgiving.
Since I forgot to blog around Thanksgiving time,
here is a brief recap.

Two grandkids, Telsey and Garrett, were missed, but we talked to them by phone.

Hopefully Ryan and Lauren will be here Christmas.

 Now back to December and the tree. Hanging the many ornaments is always bittersweet. So many precious memories are connected to them. And yet it is also joyful.

For now a few toys rest under the tree. Christmas packages will come later.

We must remember to cherish each and every day of this wonderful life.

More to come. Stay tuned.

Here We Go Again

Yipes! December is moving along at a fast pace. Time to get the house decorated with all those favorite things from years past and to try out 
a few new "treasures." One Santa decoration was found months ago at an 

antique mall. I am filling Santa's sack with small toys and items.

This was my first decoration of the season. The banner is old, but the scarf is 

new. Changing the entryway is a lot of fun now that the rack is finally up.

This cute snowman was a purchase last year at Charlene's. The wreath he's holding has a vintage look.

This slender tree is new from Big Lots. I love these simple wooden ornaments I have had for years. On the big tree in the living room they get overshadowed by all the other decorations. This tree purchase was a birthday gift to myself. Sitting in my easy chair I'm able to gaze at the tree on the hearth and delight in  old-fashioned simplicity. 

My first card of the season was this beauty from Mary. Every year she has surprised me with beautiful cards and creations. On my bookcase I am using four special ones.

More to come. Until next time...

Back to DES

It was nice to be back inside the school where I spent many teaching days. Drummonds Elementary School has changed a lot over time. I love the art that decorates many of the walls now.

We had a delicious Thanksgiving lunch with Lucas on Friday. The cafeteria had prepared dressing, sweet potatoes, green beans, cranberry sauce, etc. for the adult visitors. The kids like Lucas were happy with chicken nuggets.

 Lucas surprised us by being so happy and confident and well-behaved. He took good care of us, showing us his hallway and classroom. He was also excited to leave early with us, thus starting his Thanksgiving break from school.

The treehouse had steps leading up to real books.

What a great wall display!

On Saturday some of the DES teachers and assistants met for lunch at a local restaurant to eat, catch up on one another, and recall our days together.

Fun With Colors

Thank goodness for art relaxation. The abstract is on a canvas, and the vase of flowers is an art journal page. 

Resisting the Urge

With stores, magazines, Pinterest, and Instagram revealing Christmas ideas and decorations, I am trying my best to hold off until after the Thanksgiving

holiday. However, plans are swirling around in my head. How can I use my old decorations but come up with something different? Meanwhile I want to be content with the anticipation of Thanksgiving.

Falling Leaves

A sure sign of November is leaves everywhere.

I haven't ventured out much...staying in and enjoying the quiet.