Christmas Day 2011

So Christmas came and went by way of sunlight this year. I was fortunate enough to spend the day with my husband and parents. It was nice to visit with my cousin, her husband and daughter for the short period they could spend. I was fortunate enough to see my Grandmother. There's no excuse as to why I never visit her, I could pop my head in on my way to my parents (literally drive by her door) I'm thankful for everyone and everything.

The spoils of Christmas were wonderful this year. I asked for a Kindle until I was blue in the face, and my wonderful husband listened. :) I now have a Kindle Fire and I can't put it down.

Big surprises at my parents...My gift from Dad was a new zoom lens for my camera. Tomorrow's post will have the full details and first shots with the new toy. My gift from Mom (among other things) was a "Gossip Table" or a Telephone table. Since day one of buying our house I knew a gossip table would look great in my dining room - and it does!

I could go on and on about my presents, but I have to say the best gift I received was peace. I needed the calm/stillness and it was such a relief.

How was your Christmas? Get something very unexpected? Give a awesome gift? Have a story to share? I'd love to hear/read it!

Enjoy the family photos. Now if you'll excuse me I have my grandmother's banana pudding to devour. :)

Christmas Eve 2011

Day 357 of the year 2011. This is my 147th blog post. No where near my goal set out in January. I've come to terms with that. This blog as not been a failure by a long shot. So many positive things have sprung from my little corner of the web and I am grateful for this. I will spend more time reflecting in a few days...for today's post is Christmas Eve.

I know I'm not alone in saying money is tight. Our little Christmas tree is usually overflowing with presents. But this year they all fit nice and snug on the table. Sure I wish I could have spend more money. But as I look at our little tree and the pretty little presents waiting patiently I know I did all I could do with what I had. Yes I know there is someone reading my post right now saying "That's not what Christmas is about" well...not for you. Christmas has always been about spending time with family and friends. Laughing and loving. Sharing and bonding. And presents. And food.

Only opening/sharing a handful of gifts this year will make me appreciate what I share even more.

Merry Christmas everyone. It's time for my long winters nap.

My Sparkling Prize

Each day grows closer and closer to Christmas. I'm not going to spend this post ranting about how I'm not prepared...I think I covered it well in my previous post. Instead I'll spend this time on what I have accomplished; this shouldn't take long!

I was able to spend some quality time with my mom yesterday. We shopped until we dropped in Morristown and laughed the entire time. I forgot how much fun shopping can be when you have someone to take along for the ride.

I spotted an Eiffel Tower Christmas ornament at Pier 1 and like any thoughtful mother she bought it for me. From my first Christmas until now she has given me a new ornament every year. It's her little tradition - and I'm in love with this year's ornament! Our Christmas tree is too small for hanging ornaments, but the Tower still has a perminate spot..sparkling in front of the tree.

I couldn't wait to take photos of the silver glittered prize and now I am happy to share said photos with you. :)

May you find something sparkly to brighten your day!