Dear Friends,

I know this holiday season may not be what you are used to but I hope that however you celebrate it may it be a time of peace and happiness. We have gotten used to celebrating in a quiet way for years now mainly because our families are in two different countries so there are years when we’re pretty much on our own.

I used to think these quiet Christmases were kind of sad but as I’ve gotten older I really appreciate the quiet moments. Today for example, we had a delicious brunch and then we decided to go for a trail walk and even though it was cold by the time we were done, I was almost sweating. Loved being outdoors, finding new places to walk and enjoying the birds, trees and sunny day.

We’ve had several calls with family members and there’s still some more pending but now it’s time to open some presents and enjoy some treats. I have a red velvet cupcake waiting for me. Don’t worry another trail walk is on our agenda for tomorrow.

Wishing you a wonderful holiday season and hope Santa leaves you lots of books underneath the Christmas tree!

Hi Friends, how are your plans for the holidays coming along? All done with your shopping and meal planning? I still need to do a bit of shopping (online) but I admit I get distracted by things I want for myself! haha… We are still thinking about what we want to do for Christmas and I think the weather is going to be nice so if that’s the case, hopefully some time outdoors.

This whole year has been very exhausting work-wise so I feel like this month I’ve really lost my connection to blogging and reading. But, I do have some time off coming up and I’m so excited. Actually today I was already very energized just organizing things and I feel like with these upcoming days off it will be just what I need to get back into the swing of things. So again, I’m sorry I’ve been quite a bit absent.

Anyway, as I was organizing a few things in my studio/library I was thinking of a project for next year, which I promise I’ll share more about in upcoming blog, but I pulled out my copy of The Night Before Christmas by Clement C. Moore.

I’m pretty sure this was one of my first books in English. I don’t have a lot of my books from my childhood (apartment flooding issue!) but am so glad I have this one. This copy is in near perfect condition too and the illustrations are just so sweet. Had to read it this weekend and reminded me of all the wonderful Christmases I spent with my mom and dad and our family. If I can, I’ll go through my photo albums and share a Christmas photo from my childhood in my next post. Just have to remember!

Alright friends, again, excuse me for my absence around here and blogland. I hope you are all well and staying safe. I look forward to visiting with you soon.