Winding Down the Old Year

May your New Year be filled with just enough tarnish and old lace.

Solstice

My Very Favorite Ornament

The first ornament made by my first child, away from home at kindergarten and brought proudly home to Mama. Knowing it was made of bread dough, he gave one corner a little test bite. I much admire the glue that held the glitter and sequins in place for the last 30 years. The silver string is original, too.

Decorating Done

Let the baking begin!

Dining room end of the room.

Table top - old tablecloths, old silver with a bit of tarnish (including my Oldtimer's baby spoon.)

Buffet - again, old silverplate, aqua and clear glass items.

Tree is Up...

...and I think we're finally getting somewhere. I opted for a crazy mixed up tree this year, using old ornaments, things the kids made when little, etc. Nothing matches. It seems rather odd, after the monochromatic, "adult" tree of the last couple years. Here's a peek - but I'm not done with the dining room table yet.

My dear Oldtimer put several strands of LED lights all along the split rail fence out in front, too. I like the look! Pix tomorrow, I promise.

Lawn Toad

Wow. I can't believe I haven't posted in a month. Between work, creative time, and the holidays - I haven't even thought of it, I guess. Naahhh... the real reason is that I feel like the guy in the photo above. I don't get along well with winter - having lots of pity parties. This too shall pass.

PS - This toad used to grace the edge of the koi pond when we lived in NC. Do you suppose he's as disappointed as I am to live in this weather?