Last night my husband had to go back into work. It was the coldest night so far this season. I always pray extra hard that drivers will watch for the guys out working at night. I know he will need his cold weather gear. So while I made a thermos of coffee and a lunch for him, life hummed that beautiful normal hum of life.
The piano music just played preparing for an upcoming competition.
As I finished the dishes from a delicious dinner of calzones and lay the gloves to dry, I could hear my daughter splashing in the tub. Her class had red noses when I came to pick them up. The teacher painted them all and they became a room of Rudolph's. She wore it all day and hated to wash it off.
The sparkly wreaths on the window I know are hung for my pleasure. I just love to have the glow shining in the glass at night. I have purposely continued to keep all news off in our house, shutting out the world. Kids and their parents get enough of the real world when we are out but at home, I want our house to be refuge. They keep reminding me only nine days, only eight days. What a wonderful time of year. I am savoring all the little things.
A plate of cookies and milk brought to my daughter studying for finals. "Mom you don't have to." I know I don't but I want to. Rather sad looking cookies. Not sure why my one cookie sheet makes funny cookies.
My husband asks am I done shopping yet. Almost, I tell him and he assures me it is over soon and I say, "Shoosh!!!!" Even though I may be a bit spread thin, I want to enjoy and savor it. You never know what the future holds so hold on tight to the now.
Sharing with:
Raising Homemakers
One of the most beautiful posts I have read this season. Hold tight anyway because they all grow up. I love the way you have kept your home a sanctuary.
ReplyDeleteNormal isn't boring, it's safe and wonderful!
ReplyDeleteYou have made your home a beautiful, warm refuge, and your children and husband are blessed to have you caring for them with such love. Hugs ~ Mary
ReplyDeleteJust beautiful Elaine. The world needs a refuge and yours is the real deal.
ReplyDeleteI wish more people would enjoy the holiday and this time of year! Your feelings are beautiful and well said!
ReplyDeletehugs, Linda
a beautiful post, I love your decor, especially the village set across the piano. Beautiful. Merry Christmas to you and your family. xo
ReplyDeleteI agree with you about making your home a refuge! It is so important! You are giving your children the very best gift of all!!!
ReplyDeleteLoved your photos. Safety prayers for you husband too.
Hugs,
Kris
Thank you for sharing the sweet joys of normal life - I've turned off the news, too, I just can't bear it right now. There is such pleasure in doing the little things, and just being present in life. Have a wonderful Christmas!
ReplyDeletePatty
You have such a wonderful family and you take such good care of them. I agree, I can't take the news anymore, it just is to hard to hear. I want to create beauty and memories, so I just turn it off. I hope you and your family have a very Blessed Christmas. Hugs, Marty
ReplyDeleteBlessings, my sweet friend!
ReplyDeleteI love reading your posts. They are always edifying. I saw a wonderful saying inscribed on a mantel the other day that said "May the soft winds of heaven blow gently through this home."
I think they are blowing through your home, Elaine.
You are wise to hold onto those who matter most.
Blessings and thank you for your thoughtful comments.
Carolynn xxx
I just loved this post!
ReplyDeleteAs well as your beautifully decorated home. Blessings
for a wonderful
Christmas~Sara
This is such wonderful inspiration. Just looking at your photos, I can feel the peacefulness in your darling home. My mom is about to come to stay, and I'm resisting the urge to stress about the little details. Like you, I want to savor this year, and for us to enjoy each other more than ever before. No news coverage here, either, just gratitude and taking the time to tell everyone how much they mean to us.
ReplyDeleteThis is so beautiful, Elaine. I love how you took time to reflect on the "beautiful normal hum of life." Such a special post. Thanks for sharing :)
ReplyDeleteWhat a sweet post that made me feel all warm and fuzzy inside....exactly how Christmas is suppose to make you feel...Thank you...:)
ReplyDeletesuch a lovely post. really enjoy the glow of you shots. so nice. enjoy your evening. ( :
ReplyDeleteI chose this post as my 'favorite post of the week' feature on the sidebar of my blog!
ReplyDeletehugs, Linda
You home is so beautiful. You husband and children must love coming home to it every day.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful tree and decorations.
ReplyDeleteEveryone needs the simple life your precious words paint. More now than ever. J
ReplyDeleteEnjoying the little bits of the day is a gift. Remembering them and holding them in your heart is an even sweeter gift. I hope you have a blessed Christmas.
ReplyDeleteDanielle
Have a wonderful Christmas with your cute little family. Mimi
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on keeping the news out of your home. Children should be allowed to be just children. They don't need to hear all of the bad things that are happening. Enjoy the season.
ReplyDeleteHugs,
Laura
I love your little window sill in the kitchen! So festive.
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like Princess Q is enjoying her pre-K class. :D
What a great post!
ReplyDeleteIt's nice to have a refuge from the world, and it's clear that it's very important to you.
May you continue to enjoy this wonderful and blessed season.
Warm wishes......
K.
Lovely, lovely post...
ReplyDeleteWhat a sweet family you have and you make your house a home with all of the special touches. It sure is fun when the kids are young. Merry Christmas sweet friend!
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful family and home you have Elaine. I can tell that it is your joy and vocation to make your family happy and feel loved and secure:>)
ReplyDeleteLove how your days are clicking along at a normal pace...that is what we live for.
ReplyDeleteI'm trying not to watch or read the news. In fact, I'm having to surf around some blogs as well.
I'm hoping to have some normalcy now...and enjoy the remainder of the year!
Merry Christmas and thanks for stopping by with your well wishes!
You always make me smile!
Pat