Goodbye, 2025

For your viewing pleasure ...

She's a beauty -- absolutely stunning again this year. She started as an itty bitty and now look at her.

Well ...

Christmas 2025 is in the books. Only the outside lights are still up. Everything is re-organized, labeled, and neatly stored. YES to me!!!!!!!!

Future Me, you are very welcome. 

Hours of work, lots of literal backache, but miles lighter.

I also did a bit more decorating. Changed up a few things. Added holder "art" to empty frames. Moved some furniture. 

Started this hallway in the basement.
Bench for my crafting overflow.

Finding creativity in the house chore day. 

HVAC in Asheville is fixed (fingers crossed). Hubby with a quick turnaround -- home by 5 o'clock. 

NYE today -- lordy, hoping 2026 makes our wish come true. We all know the "wish" of which I speak. The Orange Man needs to GOOOOOOOOOOO. 2025 mostly sucked balls for too many people. Can 2026 do better? Hard to say. Some days it feels like hope on the horizon, and other days ...

We're heading out and about in our town this morning. Trying a new bakery that's having a soft opening this morning. It's owned by a brunch place that we really enjoy. 

Grandson coming over in the afternoon for a sleepover. He and I will be asleep by 8 o'clock and up well before the sun. I'm ready for some serious truck playing, book reading, cuddles, chatting. Most excellent way to end 2025 and start 2026.

My journal prompt for my one-sentence journal is "what's the best thing that happened this year?" (I write prompts on some days.)

I'm still thinking it over. Last year I wrote "our decision to move" ... we actually moved in 2026. It was the highlight decision of the year. I want to choose something else for this year. Of course, our grandson, but that almost goes without saying. (Family, friends, health, etc.) It's hard this year. Looking back, we've had a lot of mixed moments. There was an underlying stress to most of the year.

(Always, disclaimer -- well aware how lucky we are and nothing was anywhere close to what so many continue to struggle with, but this is my journal, so I'm talking about my stuff.)

I'd like to reflect deeper on the year though, so I'm going to give it attention this morning. My answer is probably more esoteric this year.

On a last note, my coaching group is having a call on January 1 -- about SPACE (!!) My word of the year. Joining this one live. It's serendipity. 

Hope you reflect and find your best memories and many joyful moments. 

Here's to better in 2026. Later gators.

Quickie

Christmas is halfway down and finishing is today's job. 

Hubby is back to Asheville this morning for the day and the never-ending HVAC saga. 

Timing works for me. I can un-decorate without distractions and get some end-of-year thinking in while I do it. I like the up and down of Christmas to be by myself. We each have our lanes lol.

Wow -- I have nothing to say this morning. 

No drama.

No plans. 

Super short and sweet this morning.

Have a good day. Later gators.

Got to Work

I worked on the first thing on my 26 for 2026 list (and the list isn't even finalized).

Yep, it's not technically 2026, but it's also not technically finished. 

Drumroll ...

THE BEDROOM RE-DECORATE.

You know I got the rug.

You know I've been "collecting" wall art. 

Yesterday I woke up in a creative kind of mood and ready to put it together.

Pieces I own (some for 30 years, one from birth).

Pieces I've thrifted.

Pieces made by family members.

Family plates.

Pieces from art shows.

Started with a floor layout which saved me the step of making paper templates. Measured the space I wanted art and translated it to the floor. This was the biggest project to date and paper templates didn't seem like enough to visualized it. I made a few changes as we hung them, but this was a good start.

Some of the frames need pictures. One frame I hung horizontally and the existing picture is vertical -- little mind screw when you look at it. There are 5 frames over 2 walls -- I have ideas for 2 of them so far.

Added to the other wall.
Changing a bit today.

I like the lower mirror.
Unexpected height and
placement.

I did some wonky
spacing to add interest.

Anchored the chair on
a little cheap rug.

Then the bed. It was boring and bothering me. Maybe it was the matching pillow shams -- so I grabbed pillows from the closet and tossed all the colors together. Does it work? Sort of -- in a wonky way. 

It works because it doesn't work. 

Ideally, I wouldn't have added the pink/red pillows to the room, but it's what I had. Wrong color palette and wrong-ish style. But, somehow, I like it. Colorful, interesting, unexpected. 

Mosh pit of pillows.
Asymmetrical placement.

This is the view from the door. Not too crazy. The picture walls are hidden until you step into the room. I like it that way. Doesn't offend the living area, but is still ME when you get in the room.

I love it.

I've wanted a floor to ceiling art wall for years. 

The expectation was something I LOVED, but something that not everyone will like. Why? Because that means I'm "brave" enough to show ME, my personality ... out loud. I want someone to see something and say "oh, that reminds me of you." Not in a constructed way. But in the way that's really me -- little odd, little specific ... an actual personality. I hid behind vanilla for most of my life. 

There's space to add. Thinking something 3-D, not a picture -- like a funky wall sconce. I'm in no rush. I'll look on Marketplace and thrift for those things. 

I'm not opposed to a new quilt, but this is fine for now. When (if) I see one, I'll know it. Now I don't need to force anything. The pillows give it enough interest.

It's fun, interesting, colorful, eclectic, odd, comfortable, happy -- my dream adjectives. 

Next up ...

Good-bye, Christmas -- probably a 2 day job since I'm babysitting this afternoon.

I have fun ideas for 2 frames that involve old pictures for one and our dating letters for others. It'll be an ongoing project for the next couple of weeks. Stay tuned. I won't have time to do much with it this week. 

I went down the letter rabbit hole last night. I've mentioned before, I have tons of our letters from when we were dating and living in different cities. The problem? They're smut. Good lord, we were horny young folks. I mean, really crazy and bold. We had a shred some last night to keep them out of the eyes of our kids when we die. If you knew us back then (or now), you'd say we are decently buttoned up ... and we are, publicly. Guess you never know behind closed doors hahahahaha. 

I also did a little itty bitty start to my year long project idea from my friend. I'm keeping you in suspense, but I'll share when it gets going a little more so I can start some pictures. 

Have a good last Monday in 2025. Later gators.

And We're Home

Well, in an interesting turn of events, I woke up in GA this morning.

My foot is a problem so we couldn't do any outdoor activities.

Dogs were having a hard time -- nervous, upset, etc.

We saw my sister and her family for lunch on Saturday.

There was nothing else we'd do in Asheville together.

My foot's put a damper on this holiday week.

So we made a last minute decision and drove home last night. It's become so difficult to go up together with our old dog. He's just a mess in a different location (even though he's been going for 4 years). We can't leave him for long and he gets so nervous coming out with us. Even with anxiety drugs on board. Poor baby.

We think most of our trips will be solo ones until Monti is no longer with us -- that's not going to be too long. He's had a decline these last couple of months and the vet thinks we are close to the end. I don't wish him gone (of course), but we won't let him have an unhappy, upsetting ending.

I was able to get in a teahouse run before lunch. It's so good.

And finish this suspense book. 4.25/5 

It was one of our quickest family trips to Asheville and, while not horrible, but not the usual fun either. The newly installed HVAC is having trouble so we'll call on Monday (they were closed for the holiday). Hubby will probably head up this week if they can service and I'll go up the following week to un-decorate, clean and HOPEFULLY enjoy the usual Asheville.

Now time to start the January build up in earnest. 

Hope you have a good day.

Later gators.

We Made It

Made it to Asheville and dodged a HUGE mistake.

I forgot Monti's medications -- he can't go 4 days without them. Luckily we were only 15 minutes out. Phew. Absolute phew!!!!!!! We would've had to head home this morning.

I already picked up Marketplace art -- picture to come. Hand painted row of trees in the woods from 1970s. Love it. Color and reminds me of hiking. Nothing else stood out on Marketplace, but I'll head to some thrift stores tomorrow while hubby watches football.

ADDED ...

This art is for the bedroom at home. 

I like the new rug. 

The picture above the bed is good.

The wall opposite the bed is almost good.

My "vision" (hah) is coming together.

Before I do the bedding (I think), I'm going to make a FULL art wall on the big, blank wall. This makes me happy. I'm in the collecting phase. Once I get enough, I'll make paper templates and see what else I need. I think a few round or "not rectangle" pictures. Maybe a sconce or something "not framed."

I'm on the lookout for the bedding, but it's going to be difficult to get it right. Something in the color palette of the rug, but a print -- probably a small print. Or maybe, when it's all said and done, I'll be happy with the dark gray bedspread.

Ooops, got to run ... hubby is up early.

Later gators.

January on the Horizon

It's finished. 

Holidays 2025 done & dusted. 

All that remains is un-decorating. 

We don't "celebrate" NYE or New Years. 

Usually reserved for the un-decorating.

I'll put together some munchies for the games for hubby and that's it.

Maybe babysitting. 

How was your Christmas?

The movie flight day was a solid 8.5/10.

F1 Movie -- AWESOME 

Family Plan -- total DUD

Knives Out -- AWESOME

Our basement setup is comfortable for a movie day.

Lots of room, blankets, pillows.

Easy potty break for the dogs.

Beverage refrigerator so less trips upstairs. 

I did a low-key Peloton ride and my foot is okay -- that was a HUGE mood booster. 

Texted with family and friends.

A few phone calls too. 

Hiking plans for next week (foot willing). 

I'm glad to "table" my holiday pity party drama until next year. I overthought and over-felt this to death. (Is anyone surprised?!?!) I looked at some wider perspectives and I can understand the situation better. Still feels prickly, but not "wrong." Happy it's behind me. It helped that we had a nice day yesterday.

Then my favorite time of year ... JANUARY. I love the reflection and planning. Joys of winter without the stress of holidays. Clean slate feeling. Possibility of a year ahead. Goal planning. Intention setting. 

Coming back to myself again. 

The holidays put me off center a little. 

January brings me back. 

No weddings or babies this spring -- no throwing showers or hosting events. Just regular life and I can not wait!!!!!

Oh ... I have such a fun craft that I'm going to do all year ahead of Christmas. My dearest friend mentioned it yesterday and now I'm all in. Stay tuned. It feels right up my alley. I'll tell you about it once I have a little more details and such.

But first ... off to Asheville for the mountains and family and teahouse. 

Happy Boxing Day. Later gators.

It's Christmas

Happy Christmas!

This holiday season has been a year of firsts.

Turkey Trot 10/10

Going out on Christmas Eve 8/10

Christmas movie marathon TBD/10

It was CROWDED on Christmas Eve. A few local places were closed, but the rest were hopping. Lots of shorts, tank tops ... it's THAT warm this week. So many "ruined" holiday outfits ... sweaters around the shoulders, people sweating in fancy blouses, etc. 

Crazy.

It's foggy and humid and very warm this morning. 

I'm not sure how I feel about spending Christmas alone. I think I'm more bummed about my foot than not having company. I wanted to hike this week and haven't been able to do any kind of exercise at all. My foot (and weather) put a real damper on the plans for the week. 

I'm trying not to get in my head about what's fair and what's not fair. This situation isn't unfair ... just different. The part I'm lamenting over is BOTH my kids are 15 minutes down the road and neither are spending any part of Christmas with us. 

Nothing. 

Knowing we're alone.

(I know we got a little pity invite for last night.)

If they were out of town, I wouldn't be having this thought AT ALL. So why is the proximity bothering me so much? I guess it's that I would NEVER -- and have never, done that to anyone. I include and invite every holiday -- alone extended family, in-laws of my kids, etc. 

Shoe is on the other foot and CRICKETS. 

It's like good angel, bad angel. 

Good angel says still be inclusive and kind.

Bad angel says never include them again.

(Today bad angel is winning, dang.)

I also am a little annoyed that the dispersement of holiday time is determined by in-laws. I never get the choice. I go with the flow. Take what they want to give me. I don't care as long as I know ahead of time, but I care that I'm not asked. Why shouldn't I EVER get first choice? Will we get Christmas next year? Or have they started a new tradition. That happened with Thanksgiving for years.

But here's the kicker. I LIKED what we did this year. It was special and probably one of my favorite "Christmas" days. We were invited to my sister's in Asheville (and will always be welcomed) so if the same happens next year, we can go there for Christmas if we choose. Maybe next year will be better weather and no foot issue, so hiking would be an awesome way to spend Christmas Day. 

Be careful to not covet what you don't want.

I didn't want it, but I didn't want everyone else to have it. 

(Not emotionally mature or kind.)

Or maybe I just wanted a genuine invite extended.

To be noticed that WE were alone this year.

I need to focus on having a good day today. 

We have 3 movies and a good dinner planned.

F1 Movie

Family Plan 2

Knives Out 3

Heading to Asheville tomorrow.

Happy Christmas everyone. 

Christmas Eve -- But Is It?!?

Happy Christmas Eve.

Two things ...

(1) I like the British way of saying "Merry Christmas" -- "Happy Christmas" sounds better.

(2) It doesn't feel like Christmas at all (maybe a song lyric??) -- we've finished our Christmas AND it's in the high 70s today. This happens SO many times Christmas week -- unseasonably warm temps. Say goodbye to cozy sweaters, warm drinks, snuggly blankets. 

Trying to rally in the spirit of the holiday is a bit tough given both.

We got a pity invite to Christmas Eve at my son's house -- we declined. It came after "what are you doing for Christmas Eve" question so it didn't feel like a real invitation. It was kind though. I think he feels a little bad that we're excluded when we've been so inclusive with his in-laws at Christmas. 

I made an early run to the grocery store so we'll have a festive meal day tomorrow. I decided to make a little effort. Man, I wish it was cold and wintery and overcast. And, I wish my foot was better. These are nice hiking days and I can barely walk at all. 

The quiet holiday I was looking forward to is a little bit of a bust given that, but I'm going to try anyway.

Sun, humid, warm (bordering on shorts weather). 

Dang.

Do better, the south.

But Happy Christmas Eve anyway.

Later gators.

Another Granny Day

I had an absolutely delightful day with my grandson. 

Total Granny day.

Grinch is gone.

Pity party is over.

We played.

Went to the park.

Went to lunch.

Played some more.

He was so tuckered out that his normal 75-90 minute nap was 2-1/2 hours and we had to wake him up when my DIL came to pick him up. 

My son has another interview today so I'm babysitting again this morning. 

Trucks.

Park.

Lunch. 

I'm a broken record -- I LOVE that we can walk to all these places. The playground is a 5 minute walk up a paved path. Everything in our backyard, so to speak ... it's exactly what we wanted and I hope I never get tired of it.

I have some volunteer stuff to do after babysitting. I thought I was finished for the month, but I'm not. It's not a big deal since I have no plans until we go to Asheville after Christmas. 

I hung a fancy dishtowel my aunt gave me for Christmas. Easy festive wall art.

Still no workout -- healing my foot. 

Have a good day. Later gators.

From Grinch to Pity Party

My grinch mood became a pity party so I decided to make it a chore day. 

May as well go all in on the lousy emotions for the day.

Glad to have them done and dusted.

I can't say I'm much better today. 

My dang foot is bad so I need to lay off cardio -- all forms. 

No mood-boost for me today.

Babysitting drop-off was suppose to be around 10 o'clock this morning and is now 8 o'clock -- this is going to be a long day with just me and my grandson and my hurt foot.

Fun, yes.

Work, yes.

I'm feeling a bit taken advantage of right now or maybe a little disrespected. I ask to be informed. I have a schedule and a life ... that doesn't seem to be a priority for my sons these days when they need a favor.

Of course, I know it's MY JOB to hold myself as a priority. But there's a line when you're in relationship with people. I'm not going to say 'no' to babysitting because the hours changed and my son didn't let me know until the last minute. 

But I want to. 

This isn't the first time, nor the last. He used to do this with dog-sitting too. 

Guess I'm sore about yesterday and feeling like my fun is over for the holidays while everyone else is still building up to the best days.

Yes, I said I'm happy to have the work finished -- and I am. 

BUT ... with my bum foot and favors this week, I'm not able to add any fun into my holiday week yet. 

Here's a looky-loo into my head.

My pity party chatter sounds like this ...

Mom, we're not spending Christmas with you.

Mom, canceling all plans on Sunday at the last minute.

Mom, can you do me an all day favor on Monday so we can be ready for more celebration while you sit 15 minutes away with nothing to do on Christmas.

(They're keeping our grandson out of daycare this week so he's not sick for Christmas with the other family side -- not the case ahead of our celebration. We got lucky, thankfully.)

Then we'll go into festive mode celebrating everything and completely ignore you.

Dramatic ... yes.

True ... not completely.

Exaggerated in my mind ... yep.

Real feelings ... also yes. 

That's the nature of a pity party. 

I'm in the throws of the PP so this could all turn around and feel a bit silly soon enough. 

The heart of today is I wasn't respected enough to be given the full information -- a couple hours of babysitting became all day (which is a problem with my foot). He could go into daycare this morning and I could pick him up early to play, but, they're protecting their Christmas plans so they want him out of school where germs are brewing. His other grandmother is busy getting ready for company and Christmas.

Of course, I LOVE to play with him, but all day means my foot is going to pay the price -- further dampening any plans I have this week. 

So my pity party is saying I'm doing this all for THEIR Christmas. The Giving Tree hah.

I could say, I'm so happy I get the day with my grandson (and I am!!!!) and glad I got chosen to babysit (and I am!!!!) ... but there's this other chatter too. 

Okay, enough of this. 

Thanks for hearing me out. 

It feels better to "talk to someone" about it. 

Hope we all have a better day than expected. Later gators.

Christmas and a Grinch-Mood

Our early Christmas was really fun.

The food turned out fabulous -- if I do say so myself. Brunch was a scramble but my DILs helped assemble. Dinner went off without a hitch. Timed well, prepped well, and so delicious. I forgot to take any pictures though.

Everyone was happy with gifts. I got a couple of albums for the record player and a bunch of very "me" things. 

Using a new mug this morning.

We played games and laughed a lot. Our grandson was in a great mood and had so much fun with new toys and books. He's getting into self-play now and it's adorable to see his imagination and play chatter. 

And now today ...

What's the theme for today, you ask?

GHOSTING and CANCELING. 

Geez.

Marketplace pickup ... I messaged to get the address for pickup this morning. 

Oh, we decided not to sell. 

Hello. 

Were you going to tell me? 

Guess not. 

Kids planned to come over for football and then we were all going to a Christmas lights show. There's a local neighborhood that puts on an incredible display for a children's charity -- only one night in December. As they were leaving last night, I said, see you tomorrow. They said, hey we're going to do our own thing instead. 

I know they had a rough week and I understand wanting a different day, but why not let me know? I planned food, kept my schedule open, etc. 

I'm happy for a day to myself (hubby will be engrossed in football), but I'm also upset. Here I sit with everything planned, setup, etc, and now I'm the one left out of plans. I worked hard for this weekend at a bit of my own expense.

Trying some coaching techniques:

Of course I'm upset. 

It's upsetting.

And ...

Don't covet what you don't really want (i.e. glad for a quiet day). 

Let both be true. 

Don't try and talk yourself out of your feelings.

Maybe re-evaluate things that are at my own expense. 

I hate that I'm ending a great Christmas celebration feeling this way though. It really took me by surprise. The kids are spending 5 days with the other side over Christmas. This was suppose to be our FULL weekend together. 

A part of the issue is I didn't have time to plan my day today so I feel like I'm left hanging -- which, of course, isn't completely true. I just need a minute to figure out my own fun. My dang foot is a mess or I'd hike -- it's getting worse, not better. I'm also tired this morning, so what I want isn't feeling obvious. 

And, I have more chores that are looming. So a last minute fun cancel might become a boring chore day.

Yep, feeling left out after having done so much of the work. 

All that said, I'm glad for a good day yesterday. AND, I'm really glad that my holiday work is finished. An easy, chill Christmas Day for me and hubby and putting away decorations when we get back from Asheville. I have one more gift to buy and that's a wrap on all things Christmas. That feels good.

Have a good Sunday. I'm off to figure out some plans for today and turn my Grinch-mood around. Later gators.

Merry Christmas (kind of)

It's here ... OUR Christmas morning. 

Lots of work left.

So little time.

Remember to have fun.

How it's going?

My espresso machine woke up and said, Let's descale RIGHT NOW. 

Could be worse ...

Could have happened DURING brunch. 

Never any warning, just a sinking feeling it's soon.

These are two very full days and now Monday too.

Daycare is closed and my son has 3 interviews (yea!!!).

Granny daycare open for business. 

Don't get me wrong -- I'm thrilled to spend all-the-time with our grandson, but I was really, really, really looking forward to Monday. Hubby's golfing -- left alone for a relaxing ME day to get life back in order. 

Tuesday won't hit the same with a semi-bored husband at home since his "sports" are all closed for the rest of the week. If only babysitting was Tuesday!!

Okay, very short and sweet this morning. 

Merry Christmas (kind of). Later gators.

Kitchen Time

It's getting done -- as it always does. 

Grocery shopping finished, more food prep ... and a little assembly.

 Like riding a bike.

My big days are today and tomorrow. 

I'm not sure my idea for brunch is actually going to make things easier. I should've made a quiche and called it a day. Live and learn. 

I'm doing a toast board -- all sorts of fancy toppings. No cooking involved. We had this at a restaurant recently and I took a picture of the menu. Should be tasty, but the assembly needs to be last minute-ish. So I'll be running around in the kitchen ... just what I was trying to avoid by changing up the menu from eggs and such. At least the clean-up will be minimal.

Before my day in the kitchen, I'm going to the Friday coffee meetup. I enjoy the conversation and getting to know more about my town and the liberal women supporting it. It's a triple win with little effort. 

Have a good day. Later gators.

Godspeed, Sweet Girl

Some sad news yesterday. 

My son and DIL had to say goodbye to their little chihuahua. We loved her so much, but it was time. She took a hard turn toward actively dying and they decided it couldn't wait for an appointment this morning.

Godspeed little girl. We'll miss you. Sassy, full of chihuahua spunk, a little mean, and my favorite chihuahua always. 

They've had such a hard month. Job loss, dog loss, and they're sick. 

It was back and forth whether I needed to go to the vet with my son. At the last minute my DIL got off work early and they could be together. 

This changed up my day a lot so I'm scrambling to regroup for today. 

I was able to get all the gifts wrapped and organized. Thank the lord for small victories. Today and tomorrow is FOOD. 

But first, I have a new grooming appointment for the dogs and that's cutting today into odd time chunks. (Hubby is golfing -- ugh, bad timing.) I should've pushed to next week. Fingers crossed we like this groomer. 

I've already been thinking about "different" for next year and I think if we celebrate Christmas on an off day, I'll cater the day. Sushi or something good. I'll still make the brunch and bake, but Christmas dinner will be off my plate.

I'm still thinking if Christmas is on Christmas -- how can I simplify to what matters in a way that takes away the "too much" work?

When the work is less, there's time to ADD -- something better, meaningful, fun, etc. I have a whole year to think about it. 

Signing off early again today. Two more days of prep ... two days of hosting and then CALM. Later gators.

Let's Do it Differently Next Year

I had another good day yesterday AND got a lot of holiday prep finished. 

It sort of feels like a never ending road though ... so much finished and yet endless lists to go. It's always this way, right? I'm seriously thinking about putting "a new way" on my 26 for 2026 list to see if it can be done differently. Not sure what that looks like for me, but it's time to try.

I have a court hearing this morning. It's going to be a happy day -- huge step toward reunification for the family. I'm excited for them and so hopeful. My time assigned to this case is coming to an end -- it's been 2 years. I expect to get another case in the spring, assuming this case completely closes (3-6 months from now). 

Picking up hormones while I'm up north. I'm self-pay now so I can get a 3 month supply AND next time everything can be mailed to me (don't have to wait until the last minute for insurance to approve). 

I'll have a quick lunch with my aunt since we're both in the same area today. Always a fun time with her. Glad we can sneak in a meet up before Christmas.

The rest of the day is holiday work. I'll make it as festive and fun as I can -- and my back will be bonkers. Goal to have everything wrapped and ready -- fingers crossed. 

I got this pin to add to my hiking pack. I love his message and his energy and it feels like a part of history. 

Short hello today. Hope you're finding some cheer and ease this week -- later gators.

Trucking Along ... With a Bit of Cheer Too

I did it. I had the book "conversation" with my hairdresser. Most of it was very sincere and the "I really enjoyed the book" was acted well enough. She was excited to talk about the behind-the-scenes so once I asked a few questions, she was off and running without needing me to drive the conversation.

Phew. Now we can continue to talk about the book and process without me needing to say I liked the actual story. 

I sorted gifts.

Found a few holes.

Filled said holes.

Done and dusted. 

The table craft.

IG reel.

Some holiday cheer in my day.

3rd year and my least favorite, but still fun. 

Christmas snow people candy bars.

The originals were white, but I did COLOR (because my year of COLOR).

Chatted with my bestie while I made them. 

It'll make the table look a bit more festive and I chose candy bars specifically for each person. This might be my last year of table craft. I'm scraping the barrel for something fun and easy. But who knows -- I have an entire year to think about it. 

No more time for more -- but that was the complete list for Monday. If I can sneak ahead a little on my days, all the better. Not yet and maybe not at all. Thursday and Friday are heavy hitters and I'd like to offload a bit. 

Today has some potential. I'm not hiking because of my foot, but I'll join for lunch. This leaves a long stretch this morning for a Peloton ride and something else. I can start wrapping and a little bit of food prep too.

Tonight is dinner with friends -- looking forward to seeing them and walkable for us (assuming my foot holds up). Walking to "things" continues to delight me. 

Definitely holiday cheer today. 

Hope you're having a good week. It's strange that this is my Christmas lead up week. I'll be curious how it all feels after the fact. Will there be a let down next week? Will I be delighted for the freedom and space Christmas week? I think the latter. A little preview of my year of SPACE, maybe.

Later gators.

FIVE Days -- Oh My!

I had another fun holiday day yesterday. 

Brunch and bookclub book exchange -- take a look at the before and afters. We all received a book we hadn't read before, but had we done the exchange the other way, we would've had to switch up. 

Serendipity. 

My selections

I've read this.

The book I received.

I want to read this.

Creative and fun!

Kids were over for football and they helped move the stuff I bought at my neighbors. Turns out a few things he "sold" me, his wife didn't agree hah. Got a refund -- oh well. More to come on these items once I get them placed and such. Holiday prep is taking priority over my house so I have to wait -- something to look forward to when Christmas is finished. I'm enjoying the re-do.

On a less-good note ...

My foot isn't happy. The walk to brunch did it in again. Resting and NSAIDS today and I'll see if I can hike tomorrow. I think it's just inflammation -- nothing broken, pulled, etc.

I was beat to the bone when the kids left. Crawled into bed, read a couple of chapters, and sound asleep. I ALMOST feel like I'm getting sick, but my recovery stats are staying great. Guess it's old-fashioned tired.

I have 5 days until OUR Christmas. Lord help me with everything. I'll get a HUGE thing finished today -- sorting gift piles and seeing if I have any holes. Sometimes that happens -- I end up with just one thing for someone's stocking and I didn't notice. This "unknown" is weighing on me because I may need to add shopping to my week. (I think I'm low on my eldest son's stuff.) Maybe some year I'll be organized enough to keep a list instead of a haphazard pile on a bed. 

But first, HAIR APPOINTMENT and another kind of book discussion -- oh boy. I need a little divine guidance on this too lol. 

Have a happy, fun, holiday-style Monday. I'm trying to add a little holiday fun to every day this week. Later gators. 

F U N (!!)

Top notch day yesterday.

Duke and I hiked. I'm having a little foot pain drama, so we kept the hike to 6 miles. He was okay with other dogs -- I know the trails well and we stayed away from the narrow areas. Actually ran into a friend and his crazy dog too.

I left more holiday rocks at the trailhead LFL.

I often look for "things" when I hike alone -- colors, shapes, etc. Yesterday was hearts. As you walk by, trees branches that form a heart from a certain angle, etc. Leaving the hike there's a cement pylon.

Hubby and I grabbed lunch and on the walk home we ran into our neighbor. His house went under contract last week. Selling stuff on Marketplace. WHAT?!?! Am I dreaming??

I shopped till I dropped. Picking up everything today. Lots of goodies for my redecorate -- so inexpensive. Stay tuned.

Back in the kitchen for oatmeal raisin cookies (my youngest's favorite) and banana bread (for today). Finishing up the cookie baking as we speak this morning. 

Then the party -- SO MUCH FUN. I had an excellent time. 

For all the bitching I do about the Tuesday hike group, man we had the best time.

Goofed around.

Laughed a ton.

Felt the friendships.

Everyone was in such a festive mood.

I need to rein in some of my particularities. These women are worth it. Maybe it's the fun night talking, but I don't think so. It was a good lesson for me. 

I know my word for 2026 is SPACE, but a runner up should be SOFTER. Hmmmm. Maybe SOFTER is how I want to feel. Something to overthink think about.

More fun set for today. 

Bookclub book exchange and brunch. 

Kids (grandson) over for football.

I'm doing a decent job keeping fun in this holiday push. We celebrate 5 days early -- just a week away. 

Hope you're doing well too -- wishing you a good day. Later gators.

Friday Recap

Yesterday's recap (for anyone wondering lol).

Coffee with the local women's political group and a mayor-elect. I learned so much about the history, town, and future plans. I'm going to go as often as I can to the Friday coffees. I learn a lot and enjoy the connection to the women and the town.

Rug came and ... drum roll ... I love it. Turns out I did NOT order the really colorful one that made me a little nervous. Kept to color, but in more muted tones.

The BEFORE. 

Stained, scratchy, corners chewed off. 

The rug upside down to show less stain.

Big Marketplace fail (shouldn't have sent hubby).

The AFTER. 

Already happier. 

Blue, green, gold, brown.

Stay tuned for the progression. 

It might take a minute to find a quilt. Struck out on initial look. It needs to be a small pattern or stripes or plaid. Big pattern will compete, rather than compliment (I think).

The artwork will be colorful too -- I have a good mix already. The big picture over the bed and the print of my aunt's art will stay. The wall across the bed and on the other side is getting the makeover. 

Hubby and I tried another restaurant - an old dinner from the 1980s. 

Great food, good price. 

Nice walk.

Stopped at a fancy chocolate store that was recommended by my aunt. 

Got two kinds of marshmallows to do a taste test on Sunday.

Proud of myself for not opening any last night -- I was tempted.

Worked on Christmas stuff for the rest of the afternoon. 

That leads me to today. 

A local hike.

Christmas prep.

Christmas party.

It'll be a good day, but I really wish parties were in the afternoon hah! 

Hope you have a good one too. Later gators.

Ending my Year of COLOR with a Bang ... or a Flop

Decorated (!!)

I eased up the task a little. 

The relabel and reorganize waits for un-decorating.

I also put in headphones and listened to Christmas music.

I'm really into "for King & Country" -- has a nice beat.

With headphones -- totally immersive. 

No more Carrie Underwood Christmas because of her radical political views.

"for King & Country" is a religious group, but hasn't shown a political stand -- phew. 

I hiked 9 miles -- 5 miles with a friend. 

Walked myself to lunch. 

Easy (7 minutes early) virtual appointment -- changing RX.

Then decorated.

My aunt and her friend stopped over to park at our house for the holiday festival. Decorations just in time as it turns out hah!

I painted a few easy rocks before the hike. Took them and a couple of holiday rocks from last year to the LFL at the hike trailhead. The holiday balls were all taken by the end of the hike. Guess they're a hit. I'll paint more of them -- super easy. It's so much fun to pass along a little happy and a little cheer (or joy as the rock says).

Today is a variety day again.

Coffee with the local liberal women's group.

Rug delivery (which may cut coffee short -- hoping they're on the later end of window).

Inventory Christmas gifts that are piled in the guest room.

Date meal with hubby. 

I'm excited and a little worried about the rug. 

I was in a mood -- no more drab. 

Made a screw-it decision. 

Ekkkkk. 

I don't remember exactly what I ordered except it has color -- the confirmation just has the name. Of course, I could look it up, but I'm just going with god on this one. I did the same thing with office furniture over the pandemic -- ended up being so happy with the out-of-my-box choice after a small panic just before it arrived. 

I know if I like something when I see it in the space. Trying to visualize it before hand is harder for me so this feels like a bit of a dice roll. 

This month ends my year of COLOR. 

This could be the grand finale or a total flop. 

Stay tuned ... I took before pictures. 

Now I'm working myself up about it ... good lord, it's a rug.

(P.S. No matter what, it IS the rug for the room. I have to make it work. Can you hear my slight panic?)

Have a good and colorful day. Later gators. 

Procrastination

Still not decorated! 

Why is this such a drag?

Worse than usual. 

I think the task is too big.

Organize the decorations.

Figure out this house's layout.

Re-label boxes. 

I said probably Thursday, but I wanted to get it started yesterday. Nope ... and I had time. And today I'm hiking all morning, virtual doc visit regarding hormones this afternoon. I won't even come close to starting until 2 o'clock. Geez. 

But ... plants watered (phew) and MOST of the Christmas shopping is finished. I went to stores and prayed to the shopping gods. I found some nice things, all exchangeable with gift receipts. 

Costco run for the beef tenderloin ($$$, but will feed us for a couple of meals).

Met my son for a pizza lunch. We tried to go healthy, but the place was packed with a wait -- pizza for the win. 

Not a bad day -- just wish I had put a little time into decorating. It's probably not a big deal once I start, but I'm in some strange frozen-land getting going on this. The dread is REAL and BIG -- and probably way overblown in my head. I've even considered not decorating. I have the outside finished, tree up, stockings up. Could this be enough? But then I'll be in the same spot next year. Taking one for my FS.

I'm hiking with one of ladies from my Tuesday group. I don't know her well, but she wants to hike more ahead of a big outdoor trip in January. It'll be good company and motivation to get out in the cold. 

I've been barely keeping commitments to myself (hiking, running, decorating) -- huge effort, lots of procrastination. I would've been tempted to change it up today too -- but now I have accountability. 

I'm also glad I reached out -- I like her. We're going to her Christmas party on Saturday. Time to get to know her a little better. 

Here's my latest winter rock ... sheep on the right. I'm in my craft room this morning to paint another rock, but I'm out of ideas. Hello, Google. 

(Lord, I will seriously do ANYTHING to not start the decoration boxes!!!!!)

Hope your week is going well. Tomorrow's post will be how I decorated and it looks lovely and it was easy, and, and, and. You heard it here today. Can it be done? Will it be done? Stay tuned. Later gators.

180 Turn Today

Yesterday was a variety-pack day, but a really good one. 

8 miles on a brisk, overcast morning. Felt great -- it's been WEEKS since I've hiked. So long, that I'm a tad sore this morning. 

Ran into this big guy a few times.
Chunky fellow ready for winter.

Home for one of the last salads from the garden. It's probably time to give it a break -- covering and uncovering overnight is a bother. Seed room starts late January so a little break is good. But, dang, the lettuce is fresh and so much better than store bought. 

[A little garden side-note ...

Grow greens and radish in spring and fall.

Grow cucumbers and beans in summer.

These are the easiest of everything to grow. Big bang for your buck. If you're looking to dip your toe in gardening. They can all be grown in big pots too.]

I got some extremely necessary volunteer  obligations wrapped up before the court hearing. 

It was well worth making time for it yesterday.

Back and forth in the car -- a number of times between 2 towns. Had to be that way, but it paid off.

Dinner with my friend was a great catch up -- although I didn't like the meal. All good elements, and then swimming in grease. She picked a restaurant in an odd place (one of my drives back and forth). Turns out she thought the book signing was there. Oh well. 

AND ... I survived the book signing with minimal conversation, Congratulations, etc. - the real challenge coming at my hair appointment next week. Every thing was really nice, organized, thoughtful. She was so well spoken and yea for her. 

The book and message aren't for me though. The story was out in left field. The values behind the story aren't mine. The writing is inexperienced. The editing, sloppy. But, I meant what I said -- I'm cheering her on for fulfilling a lifelong goal and executing the physical book and launch so well. This book is one of EIGHT in this planned series. Oh boy.

Home for sleep and then woken by a sick old dog. Poor baby. We had a rough night together. He seems to feel fine this morning. 

Today has a different feel and I'm not thrilled about it. Dreaded CHORES. Hello, plant watering -- I'm talking to you. It's a relatively unscheduled day (unlike yesterday), but I have to fill it with THINGS because time is ticking. 

Choosing a bunch of "un-fun" things isn't exciting me. I'll be glad to have them finished and am going to try and find a way to enjoy the day. I've saved podcasts for just such a moment. 

(I know, woe is me -- not any sort of a real problem.)

If I get the chores off the table, I can focus on fun holiday items. We'll see. I slept in after a late night and a sick dog. It's already a couple hours later than my usual go. My guess is the festive chores will wait. 

Hope you have a good day. Later gators.

No Gobble-Goop and Foxes

Thankful for LISTS.

To-do lists = less overwhelm.

I also decided what's important. 

Set the intention for the family Christmas celebration.

Let a bunch of gobble-goop go. 

(Like everyone gets their favorite holiday cookie.)

Kept the things that speak to me (and our family).

It's still a rushed couple of weeks, but it feels more manageable.

But...

I HAVE NOT DECORATED YET ... good lord. Something came up with volunteering and I spent the afternoon in the car. It's pushed to Wednesday or Thursday. I'm leaning toward Thursday since hubby is golfing -- helps to "think" in a quiet house. 

The other BIG thing is my youngest and DIL decided they want to be surprised for Christmas. I usually get detailed lists. Eeek -- now I need to ponder and purchase before next weekend. Wish me luck. 

Here are a few things I did finish yesterday.

Stocking hangers came.
Not the right size though,
but good enough for now.

Book exchange for bookclub.
Fun way of wrapping a book.

Decorated it myself from
in inspiration picture.
"Vintage" like plastic
balls and velvet ribbon.

You know how ladybugs are my "sign?' Lately, foxes have started feeling more interesting -- I think my sign changed. Of course, both are easy to notice (even live foxes in our area). I think the ladybug is too prevalent and the evil ladybugs can fool you (spots are different; one good for garden, one bad). 

Anyway, heading home from the library I noticed a leaf that looked like a fox. Sharpie and laminate later and now a bookmark. Walking places and noticing things delights me.

A fox, right?!?

Here's the library book -- really good so far. Interesting premise and I have no idea where it's headed. I hope it sticks the landing. It was recommended so I have hopes.

Early, cold hike this morning. Not with the group since they first decided on a hike too far away for my schedule, and then last night changed it to a walk in a neighborhood. Why a walk? Why not a local hike? This group's dynamic ... acquiesce to the lowest denominator, at the last minute. I'm learning to accept it and do what works for me without me getting all worked up (mostly). Slow progress. One of the ladies is hiking with me.

I have volunteer obligations for most of the afternoon, early dinner with a friend, and then my hairdresser's book signing. 

Variety packed day.

Best get going. Have a good one. Later gators.