"I find tinsel distracting."

Last week while waiting in my van, I quick-snapped this photo of Mimi; the way she was carrying her backpack just cracked me up. I knew instantly she's been watching how I carry my purse.

Also last week, my friend Michelle had a craft night and I was way too tired to do anything but sit on her famous chaise and make a list. My head is clattering with holiday miscellany: baking I want to do, baking projects with kids I want to do, my craft ideas, crafts with kids, ways to infuse this next month with a daily dose of spirituality, traditions I want to make sure to perpetuate, menus, scheduling...I did a Brain Drain and felt much more in control. And I do love a good list. This is just a dumping session; the real lists will be categorized and prioritized. I can't wait for holiday baking! Let the sprinkles fly!

Here are a few cozy corners I've been working on.
Above is the entry table.

Here is the balcony.
I need to acquire some photography skillz, obviously.

I've been adding Christmas touches here and there for a week and it's just about done, on the inside, that is (ahem, Mike...anytime...) I really want to get the outside lights up on my entry arch and turn them on, just to annoy Kate, who is bah-humbugging all over my bliss. Every time I open facebook, she has added a new snarky comment directed at us jolly pre-season folks in Who-ville. So.....

...Happy Festivus, Kate! xoxo