Welcome Holidays...Welcome Winter

I am starting to feel the Christmas Spirit...a real blessing in my mind and soul. I was worried that the pain of not having my Dad here would cloud over everything and bring me down...but I am really doing OK. I miss him terribly, as we all do, but I am finding a lot of comfort in the small things that are sort of our traditions around here...

time cuddled together indoors, under a fuzzy blanket
mugs of hot chocolate served with buttered toast sprinkled with cinnamon & sugar for dipping
the smell of cloves and cinnamon simmering on my stove top
scent of fresh cut pine
the warmth and weight of the extra quilt on our bed
frosted window panes
comfy soft slippers
a bulky sweater
the rosy cheeks of my little ones when they come in from the cold
snowmen
sled rides
reading
candlelight
holiday music playing softly 

watching the old, classic Christmas movies together (takes me right back to my childhood)

 My list goes on and on. 

When I read my own words it makes me realize there is so much to love about winter. The slowing down, the coming in, the creating of cozy quiet moments. 

This is a favorite quote I found a few years back-
"In seed time learn, in harvest teach, in winter enjoy." ~ William Blake

It helps me get through the long winters we have here...as most of you know, I am a west Texas gal at heart, so sometimes, the winters get a bit long for me...but then I think of all these things on my list and I am thankful.

 I also LOVE these-

 Spice Ornaments. So simple, smell so good!

When the kids are at school and Griff is napping, I turn off all the lights, close the binds, grab a cup of hot cider and snuggle on the couch...gazing at our lights...

 

 Yes- COMFORT. It's truly a blessing to those seeking it.

I also love every tree in our home...we only have 7! Each of them are special.

These are on Lilly's tree-

 These are on Mac's tree-

Lil" Griff's tree-

These ornaments are on the playroom tree-

This is the tree in our entryway-

This is Grandpa Tex's tree that is in his old room...

The big tree-

 I love the burlap and the birds and the nests...

 Mine and Pat's first Christmas Ornament...

 ...and our stockings have been hung with care.

I hope all of you find comfort in the small things...whatever they may be for you.

Hope your Holidays are full of good things too!

XOXO