Yes, a busy time of the year. Your cooking always sounds so good.
Got my Morning Glory seeds. Thank you so much. Will be planting them at my new home if I ever get moved. It's quite a process to move 47 years of accumulation. But, I'm trying really hard to sort stuff out and get rid of a lot of things in the move.
Hi Jane,- happy to hear you are feeling better. No fun to be down and out this time of year. I loved the counter at Woolworths too! My mom and I went once a year during the summer to go back to school shopping and have lunch at the counter. So fun. Enjoy picking out your tree. I am shocked at how close Christmas is! Jane
So glad to hear you are feeling better now.....fingers crossed you are back to your old self again soon!!!! Your little burlap reindeer are so cute....love them!!!! I am way behind on my decorating and shopping this year. I have never been this far behind in all my life. *sigh* Have a great week!!! ~Des
Jane! Can you believe we are still journaling all the way to our fifth Christmas as blog friends?
Mr D will watch The Holiday. I must admit, I have always watched "Love Actually" alone. Tonight we are both looking forward to watching the Sinatra special.
Homemade Granola is such a lovely gift. It does not last long in our home. I admit that I am the culprit.
I so understand about the sentiment and memories stirred when reopening the Christmas boxes. I believe God blessed me with my grandchildren to lighten up the melancholy in me. I know Elsie Jane will be the crown jewel of your season.
I am relieved to hear that your are beginning to recover from that awful upper respiratory ordeal.
I hope to begin unpacking the Christmas Boxes on Wednesday or Thursday. We'll cut our tree next weekend.
Please tell me that the rude sales associate was NOT at NORDSTROM. I have much pride in that Pacific Northwest Co. : ) I have always wished to shop Michigan Avenue. I regret that I never saw Marshall Field & Co, as I worked for a division of the retailer (Frederick & Nelson) in Seattle.
Wishing blessings of good holiday health to all of the beautiful "B's" ~ Lynne w/L
Your granola jars look great! I'm glad you are feeling better after your cold. Christmas is still not unpacked here, but we'll get our tree this week and then it will be done. I can imagine the emotion you felt unpacking the gift from your late sister-in-law. Hard times. Good memories. Have a good week.
I have tons of jars that I've crocheted toppers for. Now I just need to fill them with some homemade goodies. Perhaps granola should be on my to-do list. Hope you are feeling better now. If you are taking antibiotic, it sounds like more than just a cold. H1N1 has been going around here so my volunteer work at the pediatric ward has been canceled the past few weeks. I rant and rave at the idiots when I am driving, but then I will go for a walk where it's nice and peaceful, and my belief in humanity is renewed when folks stop their cars to let me cross the street. Often there is no respect for pedestrians, so when it happens, it makes me very happy indeed. Take care of yourself.
Glad you are feeling better, Jane. I am only having a small tree this year and a few things placed around the house. Just haven't had the energy to drag things out. IT will mean a much easier cleanup for me after the holidays are over too. xo Laura
Holidays do make us nostalgic for people and places who are no longer with us. However, they are usually good memories full of those previous times shared.
I can't get The a Retired Man to watch any movies at home with me. He only watches sports and manly reality shows and I can't stand either of those. It is a good thing we have multiple rooms and TVs. However, he loves to go to the movies and let's me pick the flic. We never go to"blow 'um ups", but rather ones with good, well written and interesting stories. This week we went to see Creed, a movie that both men and women will like.
Hi Jane, I see you are busy as usual. When I lived close to my Sister, she and I would decorate like crazy. We would go together and get the same things and our homes ended up looking alike. We were "bad," always spending too much but having so much fun! So enjoy that competition and have fun!
I'm behind on my decorating this year too. I even had to drop out of a Christmas tour of homes because I've been so busy. Hopefully I'll get it all done soon and get a blog post up about it before Christmas. I still have a lot of shopping to do as well. Yikes! I love The Family Stone! Just watched it again yesterday, as a matter of fact. :) Hope you enjoy your week!
I do have my decorating done but I didn't put out as much as usual...it looks pretty, tho, and uncluttered. I AM behind in wrapping and bagging gifts and intend to spend the day doing it... Christmas party on Wed and another on the following Fri...GOTTA get those gifts wrapped TODAY...whew...busy time of the year. Feel totally well SOON... xoxo
This time of the year, although happy can be sad when we miss those we love! They are forever in our hearts! Christmas is one of my favorite times of the year for making memories and keeping memories alive! Have a blessed day as you do some fluffing:) HUGS!
Glad you're feeling better, Jane. You have been a busy girl despite that cold. I am behind on my shopping and just finished my decorating this weekend. The kids have me on the run with their normal life. Teen schedules do not pause for the holidays! ;)
Love the homemade gifts...they are so special! So glad you got the hubster to share in a few movies....mine has watched a few with me, but normally sneaks out to the garage...LOL. I'm so glad you are feeling better...I don't know how you have been so busy with such a miserable cold!! Hugs!!
Love the story about your tender moment with hubs! Wish I could say the same, between work, kids and their activities, alone time with him is a rarity these days. I have to make sure I schedule the couple time with him soon. Agree with you on the shopping, I wallow in the crowds and all the hustle and bustle of it alL! sORRY again about your SIL, what perfect timing too !
Hello Jane, love homemade gifts, from the heart.... I also love to watch Christmas movies with Hubby, not to sure he does though.... Great looking deer, I love them too... Glad your feeling better but get over that cold mBlessings Francine
So you really are giving granola for presents! If's fun to see it in the pretty jars. I'm glad you are feeling better and hope the new antibiotic does the trick. I have such fond memories of going into Chicago to see the store windows when I was a kid.
Blondie, You are a worker....making food for the kids and I truly understand why. Bless you. If I lived closer to my granddaughter I would do that for her. I like the deer. :) Hope you are feeling better once you got new meds and some good stew. Blessings, xoxo,Susie
Oh Jane you brought back some good memories. I remember the counter at Woolworth's too. Fun times. Glad you are feeling better. Have fun getting your decor happy going. Kris
This post made me feel both sad and happy. I suppose that's how you've been feeling at times too. Reading about your husband and watching the movies...I can tell it made you happy. It's truly the little things isn't it? But seeing those forgotten books must have been a strange and melancholy feeling for you. Life has a way of doing that. Bringing with it good times and not so good times. I suppose when we have both, we can more easily recognize, accept and acknowledge what they are...just 'times', and it will pass.
I made salmon yesterday. Wish I had lit some candles ;). That's why I like using the outside grill, but it's covered and put in its 'winter' spot.
You manage to do more with a cold than most people who aren't at all sick. You're making me look bad ;).
Another wonderful post. Glad you are feeling better. I also envy people with energy that get it all done. I do what I can, in my own time. I started out strong, but somehow I slacked a bit! lol
Jane, I always enjoy sitting down to read your journals. Oh my yes I remember Woolworths sitting at the counter with my Mom. Your granola jars look perfect. Stew with Brussels spouts ... Why not! Looks yummy. I really hope you are on your way to being healthy to enjoy the holidays. Jane you pour your heart into everything you do and it shows. You grace us all with your sweet words and shares. xoxo, Vera
Hey there, Merry and Bright! I'm so glad you're feeling better. (I do remember how we've discussed, although I'm not blogger for now, that we do like to be uplifting in our more "public writings." :) So I truly hope you're feeling like your old self, and not coughing so much you can't sleep!) Again, you've bested me in the "Get Hubby To Watch Chic-Flicks" run-off! Not happening here! And although we have two TVs, I always seem to stay in the living room with him, instead of going off by myself--and I end up "not watching" the old western movies, the sports shows, the news shows with him. (He's watching, I'm hearing them, but sort of not really.) I'll get out my laptop, or a book, or (hopefully again soon), my knitting--and just "be" with him! (I GUESS he realizes I'm IN the room with him, but, hmmm..I don't know for sure!! lol) Ah shucks, I have to admit--we don't have any other rooms, except the bedroom, in which to have a second TV! And that's an old one I'm not sure is still working---and it takes up 2 square feet of space because of the tubes and whatnot in the back! You remember those?! Our comfy furniture is in the living room--the only room big enough to house such furniture--so we're pretty much together ALl the time since he retired! Oh, what a shock to the system! I think I'm still adjusting to it.
Isn't it nice though, I've had the same thought as you--that wherever I seem to shop -- people are, for the most part, friendly and courteous. Smiling back at me and holding doors open when I'm way too far away for them to do so! Maybe it's like that all year round and I don't notice it as much. I'm just thankful for it. ( Actually, I think it's because I've gotten so old, they figure I need all the help I can get..and I do! :)) And we ALL need the courtesy, and the smiling faces and the warmth--all year round! Showing it, meaning it, and accepting it!
I got a bit melancholy along with you about the gift your SIl gave you last year, but then, it was almost like a bit of a supernatural gift--one we'd all love to get from ones we've lost, especially here at Christmas time. Thank you so much, Jane, for not only telling us about the things you got done this week--(And girl--you have been busy!)--but also for telling us about going Christmas shopping when you were a girl. I'm a very small town girl too--and I so enjoyed hearing your memories of shopping with your family. I love to hear, too, about you and your family, and your comically written escapades to "soften up" your hubby's TV watching, and Emily's burlap "goats"! Did you really send him to get you some, too?? I do love to hear about all the things you do, and read your recipes, see your pretty photos, hear about your decorating...but it's also the little things that become the big things to me. You get across the feeling of them in your writing so very well. That's what I love most about the blogs I choose to read! Love you too! Trudy xx ps--Sorry my comment turns into a letter every time! :(
Hi Jane, So glad to hear that you are feeling better and getting over your cold now!! And so sorry to hear about your sister-in-law, and I know she will be though of so much this time of year. I had never seen those 'craft books' before, and what a clever idea they are, I can't wait to see them all done and in the shape of the words! Love those burlap reindeer! Enjoy your week! Kimberley
I so enjoyed reading this post Jane. I love how you write. The burlap reindeer story was so funny. It is good to go out and do some mall shopping to feel the festive atmosphere. Your cooking always sounds and looks delicious! Hope you shake off the cold, and keep on enjoying the Christmas countdown. Helen xox
Jane, So glad you are feeling better and despite the fact that you have been under the weather, you still accomplish so much. I am way behind, living in limbo as I am. Glad the Lake House is getting underway for you all, that was such exciting news that you shared a bit ago. I know I am getting off track, but that is how my mind seems to working these days. Oh, Woolworths my most favorite store in the entire universe and we also had a King's Variety shop. I reminisce alot this time of the year too. xo Jemma
Memories, good and bad and just darned bittersweet, come up at holidays and rear their heads. But it is a time to remember those we don't have at the table, and to go on and be happy. I know it must have been hard to find those, Jane. Brenda
I can get my husband to watch a movie with me sometimes...he starts out reading a book, but soon gets interested and ends up watching the movie lol. Love the burlap deer...I need to go to Menards! Hope you are feeling better soon, Jane. That cold seems to take forever to go away. I still have a little of it, and my husband finally went on antibiotics...
Hi Jane, so enjoyed the Christmas adventures at your home. Love the memory find and joy seeing your gift from your sil. Kind of like a gift from her one more time. Love the holiday movies too and my hubby is good about joining in. Those deer are adorable in burlap. LOL All the great cooking you are doing is always so helpful for the kids when everyone is so busy. You are such a great mom. Quaint little downtown shops are fun to visit this time of year. Wishing you a wonderful rest of the week my friend. xo
December 9, 2015 at 7:04 AM
Anonymous said...
I have missed visiting with you, I have so much catching up to do,,I love the deer! take care of yourself, so many have that cold, it hangs on!You are so lucky to have your daughters who love the same things you do,, that makes shopping fun for sure,,
its wonderful to have the memories of your loved ones pop up in surprising laces,, sweet sad times,,,, she will n be even more present in your thoughts with this decoration you have to assemble,
It sounds like you had the same cold/flu that my husband is getting over. He was in bed for 2 1/2 days...which never happens. Seems to be going around and yes, it hangs on and on and on... We love watching our favorites at Christmas too. Always makes for a fun relaxing evening. I always appreciate your very lovely visits, Jane! Mary Alice
I'm glad that you are feeling better and were able to get out to do a little shopping. I love seeing decorated shops, hearing the Christmas music and in our area the shops aren't crowded at all during the week…don't know what the weekends are like. You gave me a chuckle about buying 4 reindeer (grazing goats). :D
Hi Jane, I am finally getting over here to say hello. I just read your last two posts and they are wonderful as usual. I had such a nice time during our get together and I can't wait for the next adventure ! I love the deer /goats, they are charming! And I love reading about your week. I do miss blogging, I just wish I had the energy left to do it. This week has been an intense one for babysitting. So glad your feeling better too. Love ya, Cindy
Your so funny! I love to read your posts. It's like your talking to me. Your holidays sound like they are shaping up. Enjoy and have fun in everything you do!
Your decorating always looks great, Jane, but your food always, always makes my mouth water! Enjoy the holidays.....that little bundle of cuteness granddaughter will be fun to watch this Christmas.
The food you mentioned is truly comfort food at its best! When I make soups, stews or casserole type dishes, I share with my kids. As you mentioned, with their work schedules and other responsibilities, it really helps them.
Allergies are really bad here and so many people are developing upper respiratory problems. A neighbor had double pneumonia and hospitalized. Take good care!
More Holiday granola for gift giving
Very Important News. I did it. I actually got The Husband to watch The Holiday with me last night! Wow, what an accomplishment. I encouraged (threatened) him to watch Love Actually a week or so ago and next on my list is The Family Stone. These are hands down my favorite holiday movies, not counting the classics and you know... those overly touted movies I keep droning on about on Lifetime and Hallmark. I have to say, I ply him with wine, popcorn, whatever it takes, and last night it was a few Blue Moons. I joked that I was saving the bottle caps on the kitchen counter (all two of them), so if he was hungover this morning he'd know why. :) The best part of spending time with The Husband watching movies like these is that he is always so focused on the news, politics and documentaries. So when we are watching these happy love stories, I peek at him out of the corner of my eye and see him smiling and laughing and nodding his head. My little 'ol hearts swells.
I've been keeping myself busy after lying in bed coughing and sniffling for the first part of the week. Thanks to all of you for your get well wishes. I'm almost embarrassed by how much I've complained about this darn cold I can't seem to beat. I called my doctor on Monday and got on a new antibiotic and I think it's helping. And then on Wednesday I had had enough, I got myself dressed and out of the house, just a few errands but the hour out in the fresh air made me feel a little more alive.
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I really wasn't feeling totally okay but Emily dragged me out again on Thursday. We hit Michael's for some gift wrap, ribbon and odds and ends. Then she wanted to go to the nearby mall for a few gifts. Well, guess who was the one to make a major dent in the gift buying? I love shopping online and I do have a little of that I need to get on to but shopping in stores doesn't bother me in the least. I remember my childhood years shopping in a small town miles from our little house. We took the bus most times, all of us little girls and my mom, who didn't drive. I remember only Sears, a Hallmark and Fannie May. And Woolworth's. That was the best part. Sitting on the stools at the snack bar having hot chocolate. I don't believe I ever stepped foot in a mall until my early teens. And now? I love shopping in downtown Chicago, admiring the window displays, and The Husband and I visit smaller towns with independently owned shops that are just as delightful. Yet still, I get so many ideas at the malls, beautiful gift sets for that hard to figure out person in your life, the incredible sales that you might not be aware of if they don't show up in your email or you don't read the newspapers. Sometimes it can be distracting and overwhelming but I really get into it. And I truly believe that the majority of people I'm around in stores are genuinely happy and courteous, merry and very obliged to hold that door open for you or smile as they make room for you and your 1000 shopping bags! Maybe we spend more time complaining about crowds and rude people. Yes, they exist, no doubt about it. I was ready to strangle a saleslady in a store who was treating me more like a nuisance than a customer. But then you round a corner and someone gives you a warm smile, or sales people (nicer ones!), ask you if you need help with your bags, do you want boxes? We need to chill, relax and most of all, get out of our cocoons and get into the spirit with others. Just my thoughts.
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While I've only accomplished some shopping and today, getting The Husband to bring up some bins of holiday decor, my daughter Emily has been working her little bum off all week. She's clever, creative and most of all quick. She found these burlap reindeer at Menard's. They light up, too. I think they are darling even though they actually look somewhat like grazing goats to me. If you are reading this, Em, I'm sorry. I really do think they are cute. Her home looks so pretty and festive inside and out.
The Husband saw pictures she texted him of these little guys as well as her tree, etc. And he shook his head and said, "Well, Jane, the competition begins." He has this really unhealthy idea that Emily and I compete with our decorating, especially at holidays. Nothing can be further from the truth. What I really envy is that she has that energy to drag her bins up, decorate the tree and house, hang her lights in the windows by herself, all in about 2 hours on December 1st. Egad. I am the tortoise for sure. So after seeing the goats, I mean reindeer, The Husband texted her this morning: "Emily. You've made my life miserable. Mom has me off to Menard's for 4 reindeer." She was like, "Seriously?" Totally shell shocked. We had a good laugh! They are cute though.
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I had a really sad moment this morning when The Husband and I were sorting through the Christmas stuff in a storage room. You might remember that we lost our sister in law this past July. We were very close and every Christmas we secretly exchanged gifts so that the other sister in laws wouldn't feel bad. Last year I came home on Christmas Eve to unwrap these 'books'. Maybe you've seen them, they are actually a little sort of craft where you fold the pages this way and that and you have a little 3 dimensional display. These books spell out Joy and Love as you can see from the covers. When I received these from Jean on Christmas Eve last year I put them away in the storage room to save for this Christmas, a nice way to relax and pass the time and enjoy the whole holiday season. When I saw them this morning I had tears in my eyes. I had forgotten about them. It was almost as if for that little moment I forgot she was gone. I'm going to get to work on them---this last gift of so many over the years, and I will treasure them, absolutely.
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I had a great weekend cooking up a storm. Making granola for the girls to give as gifts. I'm not so hot at crafting so decorating the jars is a challenge but I'm loving the different ways you can change up the recipe. I made a sort of sweet version with holiday colored chocolate chips (red and green) that make it look so pretty and it tastes much better! The Husband is eating it faster than I can make it. I spent the better part of Saturday making pans of lasagna for my kids. Between having 9 to 5 jobs and my son and daughter in law with a small baby, they need a break and I need to do more, even if it's a meal here and there. I will say, lasagna goes a long way but I get so crazy going all out making it from scratch that I gag thinking of eating it myself. I promised The Husband salmon for dinner so you can just imagine the smells emanating from my kitchen yesterday. Major candle burning. lol! Tonight I made a stew, the first since we've gotten cold weather. I was liking the festive colors as it boiled away so I took a picture. I wanted to use up leftover veggies so it had onion, carrots, potatoes and Brussels sprouts. An odd concoction but it worked.
Tomorrow will be a laid back day. I'm going to do a little bit of Christmas fluffing in a few rooms and wrap a few gifts. I'll also start on Christmas cards and otherwise just stay in and relax. I'm feeling a little excited, too. Usually The Husband wants to wait until the very last minute to get our tree, he always thinks one year it will go up in flames if it dries out. Last year we bought a preservative sort of solution that you put in the water in the stand and our tree was as fresh when we took it down as it was when we put it up. So with the temps reaching a balmy 50 degrees this week, he suggested we go cut one down this week. Okay, I'm lying, we've never cut down a tree in our whole lives, but it sounded good, didn't it? Off to our local nursery where they tie it to your car roof top and you pay $10,000 for wreaths and pine branches.
Ho Ho Ho!
Jane x
posted by Blondie's Journal at 9:38 PM on Dec 6, 2015
"HOLIDAY MOVIES, CHEERS & GIFTS FOR AND FROM THE HEART"
47 Comments -
Yes, a busy time of the year. Your cooking always sounds so good.
Got my Morning Glory seeds. Thank you so much. Will be planting them at my new home if I ever get moved. It's quite a process to move 47 years of accumulation. But, I'm trying really hard to sort stuff out and get rid of a lot of things in the move.
Have a great week.
Judy
December 6, 2015 at 10:05 PM
Hi Jane,- happy to hear you are feeling better. No fun to be down and out this time of year. I loved the counter at Woolworths too! My mom and I went once a year during the summer to go back to school shopping and have lunch at the counter. So fun. Enjoy picking out your tree. I am shocked at how close Christmas is! Jane
December 6, 2015 at 10:12 PM
So glad to hear you are feeling better now.....fingers crossed you are back to your old self again soon!!!! Your little burlap reindeer are so cute....love them!!!! I am way behind on my decorating and shopping this year. I have never been this far behind in all my life. *sigh*
Have a great week!!!
~Des
December 6, 2015 at 10:17 PM
Jane! Can you believe we are still journaling all the way to our fifth Christmas as blog friends?
Mr D will watch The Holiday. I must admit, I have always watched "Love Actually" alone.
Tonight we are both looking forward to watching the Sinatra special.
Homemade Granola is such a lovely gift. It does not last long in our home. I admit that I am the culprit.
I so understand about the sentiment and memories stirred when reopening the Christmas boxes. I believe God blessed me with my grandchildren to lighten up the melancholy in me. I know Elsie Jane will be the crown jewel of your season.
I am relieved to hear that your are beginning to recover from that awful upper respiratory ordeal.
I hope to begin unpacking the Christmas Boxes on Wednesday or Thursday. We'll cut our tree next weekend.
Please tell me that the rude sales associate was NOT at NORDSTROM. I have much pride in that Pacific Northwest Co. : ) I have always wished to shop Michigan Avenue. I regret that I never saw Marshall Field & Co, as I worked for a division of the retailer (Frederick & Nelson) in Seattle.
Wishing blessings of good holiday health to all of the beautiful "B's"
~ Lynne
w/L
December 6, 2015 at 10:39 PM
Your granola jars look great! I'm glad you are feeling better after your cold. Christmas is still not unpacked here, but we'll get our tree this week and then it will be done. I can imagine the emotion you felt unpacking the gift from your late sister-in-law. Hard times. Good memories.
Have a good week.
December 6, 2015 at 10:51 PM
I have tons of jars that I've crocheted toppers for. Now I just need to fill them with some homemade goodies. Perhaps granola should be on my to-do list. Hope you are feeling better now. If you are taking antibiotic, it sounds like more than just a cold. H1N1 has been going around here so my volunteer work at the pediatric ward has been canceled the past few weeks. I rant and rave at the idiots when I am driving, but then I will go for a walk where it's nice and peaceful, and my belief in humanity is renewed when folks stop their cars to let me cross the street. Often there is no respect for pedestrians, so when it happens, it makes me very happy indeed. Take care of yourself.
December 7, 2015 at 3:15 AM
The best gifts are made, not bought - lovely idea!
December 7, 2015 at 6:34 AM
Glad you are feeling better, Jane. I am only having a small tree this year and a few things placed around the house. Just haven't had the energy to drag things out. IT will mean a much easier cleanup for me after the holidays are over too. xo Laura
December 7, 2015 at 7:10 AM
Holidays do make us nostalgic for people and places who are no longer with us. However, they are usually good memories full of those previous times shared.
I can't get The a Retired Man to watch any movies at home with me. He only watches sports and manly reality shows and I can't stand either of those. It is a good thing we have multiple rooms and TVs. However, he loves to go to the movies and let's me pick the flic. We never go to"blow 'um ups", but rather ones with good, well written and interesting stories. This week we went to see Creed, a movie that both men and women will like.
December 7, 2015 at 7:27 AM
Hi Jane,
I see you are busy as usual. When I lived close to my Sister, she and I would decorate like crazy. We would go together and get the same things and our homes ended up looking alike. We were "bad," always spending too much but having so much fun! So enjoy that competition and have fun!
hugs,
Sissie
December 7, 2015 at 7:34 AM
I'm behind on my decorating this year too. I even had to drop out of a Christmas tour of homes because I've been so busy. Hopefully I'll get it all done soon and get a blog post up about it before Christmas. I still have a lot of shopping to do as well. Yikes! I love The Family Stone! Just watched it again yesterday, as a matter of fact. :) Hope you enjoy your week!
December 7, 2015 at 7:42 AM
I do have my decorating done but I didn't put out as much as usual...it looks pretty, tho, and uncluttered.
I AM behind in wrapping and bagging gifts and intend to spend the day doing it...
Christmas party on Wed and another on the following Fri...GOTTA get those gifts wrapped TODAY...whew...busy time of the year.
Feel totally well SOON...
xoxo
December 7, 2015 at 7:55 AM
This time of the year, although happy can be sad when we miss those we love! They are forever in our hearts! Christmas is one of my favorite times of the year for making memories and keeping memories alive! Have a blessed day as you do some fluffing:) HUGS!
December 7, 2015 at 8:46 AM
Glad you're feeling better, Jane. You have been a busy girl despite that cold. I am behind on my shopping and just finished my decorating this weekend. The kids have me on the run with their normal life. Teen schedules do not pause for the holidays! ;)
December 7, 2015 at 9:21 AM
Well Jane I knew they were reindeer until you said goats and then I had a good laugh! :) Glad you are feeling better!
December 7, 2015 at 10:14 AM
Why is it, we women love to have our husbands watch those Christmas movies with us! I'm the same way!
December 7, 2015 at 10:25 AM
Love the homemade gifts...they are so special! So glad you got the hubster to share in a few movies....mine has watched a few with me, but normally sneaks out to the garage...LOL. I'm so glad you are feeling better...I don't know how you have been so busy with such a miserable cold!! Hugs!!
December 7, 2015 at 12:05 PM
Love the story about your tender moment with hubs! Wish I could say the same, between work, kids and their activities, alone time with him is a rarity these days. I have to make sure I schedule the couple time with him soon. Agree with you on the shopping, I wallow in the crowds and all the hustle and bustle of it alL! sORRY again about your SIL, what perfect timing too !
December 7, 2015 at 12:07 PM
Hello Jane, love homemade gifts, from the heart.... I also love to watch Christmas movies with Hubby, not to sure he does though.... Great looking deer, I love them too... Glad your feeling better but get over that cold mBlessings Francine
December 7, 2015 at 3:40 PM
So you really are giving granola for presents! If's fun to see it in the pretty jars. I'm glad you are feeling better and hope the new antibiotic does the trick. I have such fond memories of going into Chicago to see the store windows when I was a kid.
Enjoy these days …
December 7, 2015 at 4:24 PM
Blondie, You are a worker....making food for the kids and I truly understand why. Bless you. If I lived closer to my granddaughter I would do that for her. I like the deer. :) Hope you are feeling better once you got new meds and some good stew. Blessings, xoxo,Susie
December 7, 2015 at 5:10 PM
Very busy but full of fun and love. Really enjoyed your post!
December 7, 2015 at 6:02 PM
Jane, I'm sorry you haven't been feeling good. It's that time of year for sure.
I'm behind on everything but that's how it always is. Those people who get everything done early...they can't be friends with me.
I love The Holiday too. Haven't watched it yet this year but I've been playing the soundtrack over and over.
Enjoy your decorating and resting. Come visit us a the Texas blog hop if you feel like it.
December 7, 2015 at 6:26 PM
Oh Jane you brought back some good memories. I remember the counter at Woolworth's too. Fun times. Glad you are feeling better.
Have fun getting your decor happy going.
Kris
December 7, 2015 at 7:22 PM
This post made me feel both sad and happy. I suppose that's how you've been feeling at times too. Reading about your husband and watching the movies...I can tell it made you happy. It's truly the little things isn't it? But seeing those forgotten books must have been a strange and melancholy feeling for you. Life has a way of doing that. Bringing with it good times and not so good times. I suppose when we have both, we can more easily recognize, accept and acknowledge what they are...just 'times', and it will pass.
I made salmon yesterday. Wish I had lit some candles ;). That's why I like using the outside grill, but it's covered and put in its 'winter' spot.
You manage to do more with a cold than most people who aren't at all sick. You're making me look bad ;).
xxx
December 7, 2015 at 7:27 PM
Another wonderful post. Glad you are feeling better. I also envy people with energy that get it all done. I do what I can, in my own time. I started out strong, but somehow I slacked a bit! lol
December 7, 2015 at 9:52 PM
Jane,
I always enjoy sitting down to read your journals. Oh my yes I remember Woolworths sitting at the counter with my Mom. Your granola jars look perfect. Stew with Brussels spouts ... Why not! Looks yummy. I really hope you are on your way to being healthy to enjoy the holidays. Jane you pour your heart into everything you do and it shows. You grace us all with your sweet words and shares.
xoxo,
Vera
December 7, 2015 at 10:04 PM
Hey there, Merry and Bright! I'm so glad you're feeling better. (I do remember how we've discussed, although I'm not blogger for now, that we do like to be uplifting in our more "public writings." :) So I truly hope you're feeling like your old self, and not coughing so much you can't sleep!)
Again, you've bested me in the "Get Hubby To Watch Chic-Flicks" run-off! Not happening here! And although we have two TVs, I always seem to stay in the living room with him, instead of going off by myself--and I end up "not watching" the old western movies, the sports shows, the news shows with him. (He's watching, I'm hearing them, but sort of not really.) I'll get out my laptop, or a book, or (hopefully again soon), my knitting--and just "be" with him! (I GUESS he realizes I'm IN the room with him, but, hmmm..I don't know for sure!! lol)
Ah shucks, I have to admit--we don't have any other rooms, except the bedroom, in which to have a second TV! And that's an old one I'm not sure is still working---and it takes up 2 square feet of space because of the tubes and whatnot in the back! You remember those?!
Our comfy furniture is in the living room--the only room big enough to house such furniture--so we're pretty much together ALl the time since he retired! Oh, what a shock to the system! I think I'm still adjusting to it.
Isn't it nice though, I've had the same thought as you--that wherever I seem to shop -- people are, for the most part, friendly and courteous. Smiling back at me and holding doors open when I'm way too far away for them to do so! Maybe it's like that all year round and I don't notice it as much. I'm just thankful for it. ( Actually, I think it's because I've gotten so old, they figure I need all the help I can get..and I do! :)) And we ALL need the courtesy, and the smiling faces and the warmth--all year round! Showing it, meaning it, and accepting it!
I got a bit melancholy along with you about the gift your SIl gave you last year, but then, it was almost like a bit of a supernatural gift--one we'd all love to get from ones we've lost, especially here at Christmas time. Thank you so much, Jane, for not only telling us about the things you got done this week--(And girl--you have been busy!)--but also for telling us about going Christmas shopping when you were a girl. I'm a very small town girl too--and I so enjoyed hearing your memories of shopping with your family. I love to hear, too, about you and your family, and your comically written escapades to "soften up" your hubby's TV watching, and Emily's burlap "goats"! Did you really send him to get you some, too??
I do love to hear about all the things you do, and read your recipes, see your pretty photos, hear about your decorating...but it's also the little things that become the big things to me. You get across the feeling of them in your writing so very well. That's what I love most about the blogs I choose to read!
Love you too!
Trudy xx
ps--Sorry my comment turns into a letter every time! :(
December 7, 2015 at 11:33 PM
Hi Jane,
So glad to hear that you are feeling better and getting over your cold now!! And so sorry to hear about your sister-in-law, and I know she will be though of so much this time of year. I had never seen those 'craft books' before, and what a clever idea they are, I can't wait to see them all done and in the shape of the words!
Love those burlap reindeer!
Enjoy your week!
Kimberley
December 7, 2015 at 11:40 PM
I so enjoyed reading this post Jane. I love how you write. The burlap reindeer story was so funny. It is good to go out and do some mall shopping to feel the festive atmosphere. Your cooking always sounds and looks delicious!
Hope you shake off the cold, and keep on enjoying the Christmas countdown.
Helen xox
December 8, 2015 at 3:04 AM
Jane,
So glad you are feeling better and despite the fact that you have been under the weather, you still accomplish so much.
I am way behind, living in limbo as I am. Glad the Lake House is getting underway for you all, that was such exciting news that you shared a bit ago. I know I am getting off track, but that is how my mind seems to working these days.
Oh, Woolworths my most favorite store in the entire universe and we also had a King's Variety shop. I reminisce alot this time of the year too.
xo
Jemma
December 8, 2015 at 8:10 AM
Memories, good and bad and just darned bittersweet, come up at holidays and rear their heads. But it is a time to remember those we don't have at the table, and to go on and be happy. I know it must have been hard to find those, Jane.
Brenda
December 8, 2015 at 2:45 PM
I can get my husband to watch a movie with me sometimes...he starts out reading a book, but soon gets interested and ends up watching the movie lol. Love the burlap deer...I need to go to Menards! Hope you are feeling better soon, Jane. That cold seems to take forever to go away. I still have a little of it, and my husband finally went on antibiotics...
December 8, 2015 at 4:16 PM
Hi Jane, so enjoyed the Christmas adventures at your home. Love the memory find and joy seeing your gift from your sil. Kind of like a gift from her one more time. Love the holiday movies too and my hubby is good about joining in. Those deer are adorable in burlap. LOL
All the great cooking you are doing is always so helpful for the kids when everyone is so busy. You are such a great mom. Quaint little downtown shops are fun to visit this time of year. Wishing you a wonderful rest of the week my friend. xo
December 9, 2015 at 7:04 AM
I have missed visiting with you, I have so much catching up to do,,I love the deer! take care of yourself, so many have that cold, it hangs on!You are so lucky to have your daughters who love the same things you do,, that makes shopping fun for sure,,
its wonderful to have the memories of your loved ones pop up in surprising laces,, sweet sad times,,,, she will n be even more present in your thoughts with this decoration you have to assemble,
December 9, 2015 at 7:07 AM
It sounds like you had the same cold/flu that my husband is getting over. He was in bed for 2 1/2 days...which never happens. Seems to be going around and yes, it hangs on and on and on...
We love watching our favorites at Christmas too. Always makes for a fun relaxing evening.
I always appreciate your very lovely visits, Jane!
Mary Alice
December 9, 2015 at 8:03 AM
I'm glad that you are feeling better and were able to get out to do a little shopping. I love seeing decorated shops, hearing the Christmas music and in our area the shops aren't crowded at all during the week…don't know what the weekends are like. You gave me a chuckle about buying 4 reindeer (grazing goats). :D
December 9, 2015 at 9:15 AM
Hi,
Oh my, I like the idea of adding the brussle sprouts in the soup. My son loves brussle sprouts.
I always enjoy reading your posts, you are so full of life. :-)
Love Ya,
Carla
December 9, 2015 at 1:47 PM
Hi Jane,
I am finally getting over here to say hello.
I just read your last two posts and they are wonderful as usual.
I had such a nice time during our get together and I can't wait for the next adventure !
I love the deer /goats, they are charming!
And I love reading about your week.
I do miss blogging, I just wish I had the energy left to do it.
This week has been an intense one for babysitting.
So glad your feeling better too. Love ya, Cindy
December 10, 2015 at 2:00 AM
Your so funny! I love to read your posts. It's like your talking to me. Your holidays sound like they are shaping up. Enjoy and have fun in everything you do!
December 10, 2015 at 2:00 PM
Your decorating always looks great, Jane, but your food always, always makes my mouth water! Enjoy the holidays.....that little bundle of cuteness granddaughter will be fun to watch this Christmas.
December 10, 2015 at 8:22 PM
The food you mentioned is truly comfort food at its best! When I make soups, stews or casserole type dishes, I share with my kids. As you mentioned, with their work schedules and other responsibilities, it really helps them.
Allergies are really bad here and so many people are developing upper respiratory problems. A neighbor had double pneumonia and hospitalized. Take good care!
xo
Pat
December 11, 2015 at 8:56 PM
Hope you're feeling great! Wishing you & your family a Merry, Merry Christmas!
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