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Saturday, December 20, 2008

Christmas Contentment

Christmas contentment? Not yet, but I think it's just around the corner. I'm not done shopping, still haven't baked, but I am done with the decorations. Here's a quick look around the acre.

The living room tree.



The family room, too dark but you get the idea.


A snowman that I made many years ago...he's got a bird's nest on his shoulder.


Some sweet things on a table Glen made me one year for my birthday.


The nativity...the most important addition to the Christmas decorations.

My little "village." Each piece is small and was given to me by the kids when they were wee ones.


A better view of the living room.

That's the highlights. I enjoy all my Christmas things....and still I think I could live without it all. The older I get the less I seem to need.

I have a couple of gifts planned for post-Christmas giving and one for Christmas day. I have a watchcap on the needles for the hubby that I think I can get done for Thursday. I want to make some pajamas for two good friends, but we won't be seeing each other until somtime in January, so that's a big "WHEW." I can start those after Sunday.

I'm hosting the in-laws for Christmas on the 27th. Then it's my birthday and New Year's Eve, which will probably find us at home again this year. My mom will be here and maybe I'll fix something different for dinner. Any ideas?

My post wouldn't be complete without my blessings list...

...vaseline, which is helping the chapped lips

...the patience God is bestowing on me as I get older, I couldn't manage without it

...knitting...it brings me so much joy and contentment

...my bread machine, rediscovered after a long exile, its hum is music to my ears

...my go-to pants pattern...so worn but so loved

...candlelight, which warms my heart in so many ways

...after Tuesday, no work until January 5th

I am looking forward to finishing up shopping tomorrow and doing some baking on Tuesday evening. Candlelight service on Christmas Eve and home for "breakfast." I make a version of the Bob Evans breakfast casserole, a cinnamon streusal cake and fresh fruit for our evening meal after church. What are your plans? Wherever you are and wherever you'll be, I hope you are finding peace and feeling contented.



"The secret of contentment is knowing how to enjoy what you have, and to be able to lose all desire for things beyond your reach." ~ Lin Yu-t'ang

9 comments:

Susie Homemaker said...

Amy, everything looks so pretty...Your fireplace is amazing...looks so inviting! I hope all is well with you and yours...we had a Blizzard and are expecting more snow in the morning...just in time for my commute to work...ahould be fun!

Love,
Susie

YayaOrchid said...

Love your Christmas decorating! I love the snowman, he sure is a whimsical little character. Both your trees are beautiful, but my favorite is the family tree, it's amazing! And of course your little village is so cute. I also have one, but as the years have added clutter to my house, I can't seem to find space for it anymore.
Your Holiday plans sound so nice, especially baking and meal preparations. Hope you have a wonderful time surrounded by your loved ones. And Happy Birthday, in case you don't post until afterwards! Merry Christmas to all!

Tracy Batchelder said...

After church today, we're heading for Matagorda. Merry Christmas!

GlorV1 said...

I love your trees Amy and you always have nice things to say. I hope you and your family have a wonderful Christmas and New Years. Like yaya say, if I don't post or you don't post, have a wonderful Birthday. Enjoy.

Creations from my heart said...

Your house looks lovely and I love the lights on the wreath over your fireplace. One thing I am thankful for is our friendship of many years! Love...Sherry

Arlette said...

Amy, your decorations are just lovely. I hope you were able to get your shopping, baking and decorating done without stressing too much.
I would like to wish you and your family a very happy, healthy, and safe holiday season.
Mele Kalikimaka and Hauoli Makahiki Hou!
Aloha!

Margaret Cloud said...

First of all Happy Birthday, hope your visit with the in-laws went well, I love your pictures of the decorations.. I am wishing you and your family a very Happy New Year.

Susan said...

Happy New Year, Amy.

GlorV1 said...

Just stopped by to wish you and yours a HAPPY NEW YEAR!