Christmas is a magical time in the eyes of a child. But even as adults, Christmas can be pretty magical. Reliving some of our happiest times through well worn traditions, familiar scents of cookies that our grandparents baked, sounds of laughter, seeing old handwritten recipes – all these little things make our hearts full.
BUSY. Everyone is soooo busy right now. Make a plan (it’ll help), make a list (or two or three in my case), then chill. As Bob Marley sang, “Don’t worry about a thing, ‘Cause every little thing gonna be all right!” I think sometimes we all want everything to be so perfect (think weddings, etc.) so if the tiniest glitch occurs (i.e. sourdough not turning out as it should) people tend to overreact. In the scheme of what could go wrong in the world, chances are the worry over what you’re making for Christmas, what you’re giving as a gift, how you’re going to have time to throw together a party, etc. etc. are small worries compared to life and death, global, health care, starvation, lack of housing, etc. our problems are slight. So it helps to put it in perspective.
Just look at the vibrant color in this ornamental (vs. edible) cabbage! Stunning, isn’t it? Perfect in the ground or a planter. The link (above) shows the different types, their care, etc. It can really liven up the landscape! It almost looks like a flower. Stunning!
Trees. They are spectacular and can really make a neighborhood special. On the way back from a walk this scene struck me. This was November – the ground was so dry. The sun was coming in strong and a sprinkler was on which looked similar to the sun shining through the trees, wondering if this was a humid day? These live oak trees have been here for a long time, and they’re magnificent. In a way it takes you back in time. Especially when the Spanish moss is blowing in the wind. It’s gorgeous!
Beautiful, isn’t it? We were on a hike in North Carolina – Purchase Knob to be exact. Always a good time, I love the views, they’re beyond breathtaking. For those of you who have been on this trail, this photo was taken on the fairly short strip of grassy area (my favorite) – I’m not sure what the vegetation is, but it was so sculptural against the sky and the mountains. Breathtaking!
I have an amazing recipe for you – but… Oh y’all, my late fall images are suffering with these early dark evenings coming so early. You would laugh if you saw me make a recipe, early enough that there should still be light SOMEWHERE in this house as I run from spot to spot. I usually can find a little glimmer of light, nothing outstanding, but as I run from spot to spot, I’m sloshing and the image isn’t quite what I want it to be. End result is still the same. A recipe (usually someone else’s) that i’ve tried and loved enough to share with you. So on these chilly days I have the perfect Hot Chocolate Recipe… You aren’t going to believe it, I am thrilled to have found it!
I love a framed view of a cool place. This is Charleston, SC as seen from a parking garage. I was headed to the Apple store and was hightailing it when I saw this image. I had to backtrack to get a photo. I love the building framed in this shot. It was a pretty day, nice weather, cool air. Does anyone else get excited about parking garage photos? Haha.
It’s the holiday season… 🎶 It’s such a festive time of year isn’t it? My “Thanksgiving cactus” is in full bloom, and even though Thanksgiving has passed, Christmas (and other holidays) are on the way – we’re all working feverishly to buy gifts, find recipes, cook, shop, wrap, etc. #blessusall
This photo of my husband and I was taken by a friend and Expert-In-Residence at The Swag in Waynesville, NC – This is one of my favorite photos of us, we were climbing up to Hemphill Bald near the Cataloochee Ranch in North Carolina. Best photo ever… It’s a strong reminder of the many things we have in our lives to be thankful for. #friends #family #thegreatoutdoors
Every once in a while it’s nice to get out of your own setting – see something different, even though it may be nearby. My husband and I stopped and had a nice lunch and then thought a drive might be nice – get out and see something different. I ended up taking a lot of photos as the conditions were near perfection!
We were out running errands and popped into a few nearby shops. On the way back to the car, I had to stop to take a photo to show you… THIS is the view. (It’s not my personal view, but it’s a short walk away, which is just perfect!) I never take for granted living in such a beautiful area. The serenity, nature, calm atmosphere. Wow, each one is a gift, isn’t it?
With EL NIÑO in place, much of the country is expecting warmer temps this winter. I can say that would be true for Charleston where temps are hovering around 80 and the sun is shining beautifully. It’s a delight to be able to spend more time outdoors.
When is the madness going to stop? Wouldn’t it be nice to stay on Daylight Saving Time (DST)? The thought, for most of us, of dark coming at such an early hour gives those who work no time to be in the sunlight, even if it may be fading… Regardless, the fact is for most of us, tonight is when we change the clock BACK one hour (gaining an hour of sleep)…
Pretty as a picture, right? The sun hit this fall display so beautifully, I had to run up and take a few photos. Can you believe tomorrow is Halloween? It doesn’t seem like last Halloween was all that long ago.