December Recap

 RIGHT NOW...

I'm listening to the ping (or is it ding) of texts going off.   Usually the phone is pretty quiet- but I sent out a few Happy New Year texts and the replies are trickling in.  

I figure- it's as good of a time as any to update the blog with my monthly reflection.   

Typically I use this opening prompt to comment on what audio-book I've listened to.  My listening has slowed down now that we are home (Hello- comfy chair, and ability to stream with ease- we just finished binging a rewatch of all six seasons of Downton Abbey) 

However, the one audiobook for this month that stands out the most was Mr. Dickens and His Carol.   It's a historical fiction- imagining what prompted Charles Dickens to pen his classic seasonal tale.    I enjoyed it- and will say- it helped bring some holiday spirit to my walking efforts.  

I'm loving the fact that this past month unfolded even better than I would have guessed or planned...

Heading into Christmas-  I suggested to the family we do a Christmas free of exchanging material gifts.   I could fill this page with a litany of reasons why I suggested this approach- but in the end, it all boiled down to it feels right.   

And oh so right this month has been.   As I stepped away from the need to find the perfect gift for family members, I found myself savoring the holiday season  more than any I can recall in years past.  

So much to love...

Love of live music- led me to enjoy two seasonal concerts-

Featuring seasonal jazz at the PACE Center

and a community choir at Bethany Lutheran Church

featuring area church groups performing classic Christmas Hymns

Love of connecting with friends both near and far...

There were birthdays to be celebrated....

and holiday cards to be sent...

While some see the Christmas card as a chore- I love how it gives me a chance to connect with friends and family- For the local friends- I hand deliver their cards with a bag or two of homemade caramel popcorn.   This year- I ended up making over 7 batches to share with others.  

Love of good food and tasty cocktails

From a Christmas Eve roast

to a late Holiday meal with the Things...

if you went hungry this month at the House of Chang...it was your own fault.

It is also a good explanation for why the number on the scale continue to climb..

and is it even Christmas if you don't have some holiday cheer?

I'm feeling rested..

Seriously- how many people say that on the first day of a new year?   But seriously- my head is clear, my heart is rested.   I have a few projects I would like to tackle- in our ongoing effort to simplify things here at the House of Chang.   My mind is starting to ponder what adventures to take this coming year...but for today...I think I shall just rest some more

Until next time....enjoy the ride...no matter the weather..

Photo credit:  Hubby...ya think I'm leaving my cozy home to ride in the snow?  Think again