Happy New Year

As dreams of a new year transpire,
may this year open up new pathways of being and
may we look to a bright and tranquil 2013
– Helena White

I took some time to shake off the Christmas rush and reflected on how much I love Christmas! This beautiful seasons visit, all be it brief, wraps us up in it’s loving embrace and highlights what peace on earth can be like.

This year was far from our usual quiet Christmas. I have not cooked and baked this much in years!. Three dinners in a row, starting on Christmas Eve with a garden green salad with candied pecans, dried fruit tossed in a raspberry dressing. Our main entree was baked ham, roasted baby potatoes and green beans. Dutch apple pie followed for desert, but we were all too stuffed and settled for another glass of wine. Having my stepson and his wife and my best friend here for Christmas was wonderful. 

Christmas day was of course the traditional turkey dinner with all the trimmings, ending with homemade pumpkin pie of course. The next day, referred to as Boxing Day here in Canada, is when the rest of our kids and Grand-kids celebrate with us. I make all their favourites which includes, sweet and sour meatballs, macaroni and cheese, fresh rolls, coleslaw and my step daughter made her delicious lasagne. Lots more deserts and again we were stuffed. Three days, three dinners passed by like a blink of an eye. All those preparations, but lots of leftovers! And we must not forget my adding just the right amount of sparkle with all the decorations throughout the house, including displaying all the Christmas cards that I love to send and receive. 

The magic of Christmas memories often magnify in our imaginations so that we hold them close. Christmastime, like all traditions are forever etched in our hearts. At the moment that I realize the vision of sharing the gifts that we give and receive will soon fade, I reach for my camera, wrapping up a memory.

May Love, Joy & Enthusiasm
envelop our spirits
And may the Universe send
the Richest Blessings for an
Amazing new Year !