Sunday, January 12, 2025
Popping in to say hello
Monday, January 06, 2025
Slow and Calm
Isn't that a lovely fox? I received a spiral bound notebook for Christmas with the cover drawn by 5-year-old Iris. The drawing was guided orally by the teacher, but the work is Iris' own. Notebooks and other items with the drawings (by each of the children) are fundraisers for the school. I find it so charming, but have not yet decided what to write in the notebook.
It's taken me all day to write this post between various tasks, and as evening draws in, it will also be slow and calm. I wish the same for you.
Sunday, December 29, 2024
Through the Year 2024
March - The scent of Skunk Cabbage in spring wafts from marshy and wet spots alongside trails. Bright yellow and highly fragrant, this plant is unmistakable. We saw this one on a hike at East Sooke Park.
April saw the family gather for the 90th birthday of my Dad, seen here with my grandchildren. A fun time of celebration!
May - The Northern Lights put on a spectacular show at a beach near us. Seeing the lights dance and sway in the sky was truly a highlight.
June, and we were off to Europe, spending time in Leiden and seeing part of the Netherlands. I was charmed by all the canals and homes in the medieval quarter. Would love to return one day.
July, and our trip continued on a cruise to Iceland and Scotland. Nootka Lupins covered the hills with gorgeous blue flowers. I loved the vast landscapes, the charming towns, and interesting history of Iceland.
August - A family camping weekend with the tradition of making donuts one day. Everyone helped with the glazing. An indulgent tradition that is a lot of fun.
September - A camping trip to the Rockies. Hiking, swimming, kayaking, and watching bears watch us filled our days. We live in such a beautiful country.
October and we returned to the wild west coast to watch the waves crash in from the Pacific. Exhilarating!
November - A little girl blowing bubbles in the garden provided a bit of magic. What fun she had making them, and what fun I had watching her delight.
December has been a busy one. I did complete the pajamas for the grandchildren - flannelette bottoms for the elder three and nightgowns for the little girls. I asked them to bring them here on Christmas so that I could photograph them together. What a fun bunch of lovely humans.
Wishing you all a joyous beginning to 2025!
Friday, December 27, 2024
The Week Between the Years
Home again for a cup of tea and a rum ball or two. I'm in no hurry to bid farewell to this season. There will be a jigsaw puzzle, more mulled wine, and cheering gatherings over the next few days. A lovely week between the years.
Tuesday, December 24, 2024
Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas!
Just popping in on the morning of the 24th to wish you all a most merry and blessed season.
May joy fill your hearts.
Tuesday, December 17, 2024
Traditions Old and New
Something new I'm doing this year is painting an Advent calendar along with Harriet de Winton on Youtube. Each morning there is a new little design to draw and paint with watercolour. Some of my squares are more successful than others, but it's a personal treat that I look forward to doing each day.
There are still plenty of traditions to enjoy in the days to come. Despite people never being quite the same from year to year, doing the same things builds connection, establishes values, and is lots of fun!
Wishing you unexpected gifts today.
Saturday, December 14, 2024
A Visit to Butchart Gardens
I made this ornament many years while living in the jungle of South America. How I longed for the Christmas weather I was accustomed to. Now, I still wish for snow. We see so little of it here on our west coast island.
It's mid-afternoon as I finish this post. Strong winds have howled around the house all day, with spatters of rain to change it up at times. I've been baking, with Tim's help. He's becoming a great sous-chef. Shortbread, Chocolate Cherry Cookies, and Butter Tarts are cooling and headed for the freezer. Light is fading fast and soon we'll close the blinds, turn on all the twinkling lights and stay cozy while the weather does what it will.
Popping in to say hello
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