Christmas feels very different this year. I’m simplifying. I’m doing less. I’m spending less. I’m crazy less. I like it. What am I doing differently this year? I’m letting go. Letting go of some obligations, the self-pressure, and some (working towards all) expectations. It feels very good. Like drawing full, deep breaths into clear lungs […]
The Lord (kind of) of the Rings – a Christmas engagement story
I wrote this six years ago, and it warms my heart every Christmas… ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ My nephew Sean became engaged two nights ago. Very exciting! His bride-to-be Tori is great! Sean researched diamonds before purchasing a ring, became familiar with the four “C”s and experienced the maze of choosing […]
No Christmas Tree, No Christmas Tree
(This post was featured on CatholicIcing.com in December 2011. It is still true today. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ My husband and I are done with paying for, hauling […]
Book Review: The 12 Days of Christmas Adventure
review by M. J. Joachim @ M.J. Joachim’s Writing Tips, Reviews and More. Encouraged by the playful theme of doorbell ditch and Secret Santa, The 12 Days of Christmas Adventure is a perfect choice to start preparing for the holiday season. Combining old and new Christmas traditions, along with the true reason for the season, […]
A Simple Advent Wreath! If You’re Five or 90, This is For You!
Six years ago, I woke up at 3 a.m. with a vision of an Advent wreath I had to make. This has happened a few times in my life, where an idea comes to mind that is crystal clear and urgent. We all know that phrase, “it dawned on me.” Our daughter says that’s how […]
Talking Turkey (and other treats)
Thanksgiving, Christmas, cooler weather! Turkey, and more turkey! They come every time this year, but it still surprises me. I live in Florida, so I’m a shorts/flip-flop girl year round. I hung clothes out in the sunshine just yesterday. And scarfed down two fat, juicy navel oranges. Snow shovels and mittens just aren’t on my […]