I’m sure i’ve posted this painting in years past. But to go through 13+ years of posts (the first ten years daily) seemed a bit daunting. I was thrilled to find this tucked in one of our cherished books. It’s actually a card (I’ve saved every one he’s sent).
It seems as if part of the world is freezing and the other part is burning. Thoughts (and any help you can provide) go out to those in the path of this fire – this appears to be a nightmare of the worst kind. I’m certainly not going to complain about cold weather (definitely cannot complain in Charleston, SC, but it is chilly here). On a brighter note:
Today, I’m posting a sketch that I started on my phone but never finished. This is feeling like the new year to me. Rushed, trying to get things done. I just discovered I have an issue… Oh, but of course!
I bought this book back in October. I’ve been saving it for two conflicting reasons. 1. Nearly everyone says this is one of the best books (if not, THE best) they’ve ever read. However, when I skimmed the synopsis it dealt with some hard topics, I wasn’t sure I wanted to delve into that territory just yet. And reason 2. Because I knew if I read it, it would be over. No one likes this book to end, so… But, I did read it – and ohmygosh, it’s akin to being on a roller coaster. The highs, the LOWS, and EVERY emotion in between. But in the end, what I remember most of all is the true love and kindness of people, despite their conditions, a community coming together. Which is the sentiment that won out overall.
Believe it or not, these are not a variety of oranges. They’re limes. I don’t recall the name on the tag, I’m thinking they may be mixed with orange/lime? Interesting, hmmm? When I saw how the sun was hitting the fruit I had to take a quick snap. You see these mainly planted in large (gorgeous) containers. We’ve seen them at a few places we’ve visited. Stunning for sure!
Coming Soon Book Alert! Jennifer Weiner has a new book coming out April 2025. The image was an Advanced Reader’s Edition, so it’s not the actual cover – you can see it now, it has been released since. I love book reviews, and rely on them to see if a book is something I’m looking for (or not). I don’t read any spoilers, and I don’t even read the back of the book or the description completely – I don’t want to know anything, but I do – It’s complicated, ha.
Sending HAPPY NEW YEAR wishes to you and yours – can you fathom that it’s already 2025? I have an inspiring quote for you for the New Year… so take a peak and keep it in mind (I didn’t write it). Here’s hoping 2025 is everything you hope it will be. Wishing you nothing but health and happiness this coming year. Now, if you have a minute, read the quote – I think it will put you in a good frame of mind for 2025 and all it brings. #inspiration
When I saw this dapper man, dressed in his finest riding his bike down a beautiful Charleston, SC street – I thought to myself “only in Charleston” would you see him stop for the Equine Sanitation department who clean up after the horses in town. So classy. What a wonderful city full of unexpected visions.
Sunrise. Sunset. I love them both equally. How magical it would be to have an amazing view of one or the other. “If I had my druthers” as my MIL will say, I’m not sure which I would pick. I love a sunrise. I love to pop out of bed as I did in this image above. But, I also love a sunset. We were visiting…
Just in time for New Year’s goal setters – sound advice from a chocolate, ha ha. I love the dark chocolate Dove pieces. It’s always fun to see the message inside the wrapper. I thought this one was apropos for the time. It’s so true, “Write your own fairytale, and be your own hero” – I would update it to say “Help others write their fairytale where they are the hero” too many words to fit I’m pretty sure.
My husband and I put this pile of snow, buttons & twigs together one Christmas… I absolutely love this snowman and I love his shadow. He’s a happy one for sure! Sending wishes for a very Merry Christmas (or whichever holiday you celebrate!!) and a safe, happy, and healthy New Year…
I love to post this image on Christmas eve – it was taken years ago, not sure if I took it or if my dad took it and sent it to me. It’s a treasure nonetheless. The magical colors of the sky coupled with the brilliantly lit “Christmas tree” – such a good idea. I’ve always loved this tree!
If you’re looking for a super special Christmas cookie recipe – look no further! This is a recipe the entire family can join in on. Everyone can display their artistic abilities (or not, ha ha) – either way, the cookies will taste the same – Out of this world delicious. As a family, we always doubled the recipe for the cookies, not sure if we did for the frosting, there is plenty!
Whoa! The unspeakable beauty of the mountains is undeniable. We arrived in Western North Carolina on a sunny but cool day. As we were having lunch in Saluda, NC I saw a weather alert pop up – possible 3-5″ of snow in elevations > 3,500. We were at 5,000. Here it is in all its glory. What a magical time to be in the mountains…
The King’s Counterpoint and the West Ashley High School Choirs
I love the wonderful opportunities in Charleston to see and hear wonderful art and music. My husband and I went to The Kings Counterpoint (KCP) free Christmas event at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. Was it ever spectacular. There were a few songs featuring the West Ashley High School Wildcat Chorale and the final song they all sang together. It was absolute perfection! Donations were gladly given – excellent performance!