Back to the Holidays

via bliss

In a way, it felt like the big boy's birthday forced us to step out of the holiday season for a few days.  My focus shifted from choosing cookie recipes to party planning.  Instead of working on our paper chain for the tree, we celebrated our gorgeous boy turning 4.  Now that the party is over and the presents are all opened, I feel like I can shift back into holiday mode.  I'm continuing to focus on making that 'holiday mode' as relaxed as possible, but I will admit that I also want to maximize the fun, which requires a bit of work.  It's funny to think about how holidays used to be, when there weren't little kids and I wasn't the one in charge.

That said, I am thoroughly enjoying the season and have so far been able to stay chill about it all.  I've had to let a few things go in order to do this, but that's okay.   My only complaint is the lack of snow.  It seems that everybody everywhere has already had their fill of the white stuff - even south of us - but our grass remains green.  It is bitter cold outside, and yet still no snow.  I keep checking the forecast, waiting for some sign of a storm.  Ah well.  I'll look at the bright side - it'll make everyone's travels easier.  I also know that we will get plenty of snow before the winter is over, and it'll stay a lot longer than I'd like, so I'll try to appreciate the clear sidewalks for now.

Only one more week of work before being able to take a break and enjoy the end of the year at home with family.  I hope you've been able to maintain a peaceful outlook on this busy season.  Here are a few peaceful images to help you on your way...

via apartment therapy

Aren't these the prettiest snowflakes?  Winter - and the holiday season in particular - is magical...

via flickr

Somehow this image reminds me to focus on keeping things simple in this crazy time...

via sunday in bed

And if you can't keep things simple, then plan to spend some time here...

via sunday in bed

Or take a few minutes to turn down the rest of the lights to sit by the tree and snuggle with a loved one, a cup of hot cocoa, a warm blanket... 

via firepretty flickr