Merry Christmas!

It's that time of year when I like to wallow in all the good wishes sent my way and that I send out to people.  That type of "wallowing" just makes my heart swell with happiness.  It truly is "the most wonderful time of the year".  Not because of the presents.  It's such a wonderful time of the year because it usually brings out the very best in people.

I was late getting to the little tree that I decorate up just for me in my Crafting room.  I've already got the big tree in the bay window of the living room but I do enjoy having one set up to light up my little room.  If you thought my tree would be hung thick with all sorts of home-made decorations, you'd be wrong.  I found some decorations that really appealed to me and they grace the branches of my little tree.  They're more rustic, more old-fashioned, and make me feel good.  I don't keep a tidy room but I enjoy making it special this time of year.

Those little craft-store birds were irresistable and I had to have them.  They're made of pinecones and many have little Santa hats on their heads.  I guess what I love about them is that they remind me of 3 Mile Bend, a nature reserve that is also an off-leash dog park.  My daughter and I love to take her giant dog there (he romps like the puppy he isn't any longer) and we usually bring critter food and suet packs for the birds, bunnies and squirrels.  This time of year, especially, we like to share our bounty with the woodland creatures and added another bird feeder to the area yesterday.

My cats, too, are enjoying the changes to the house this time of year.  My long-haired Siamese, Mei Li loves to bed down on the tree skirt in the living room.  Both she and Khali Kho, my tortoise shell rescue, love sitting up on their cat-tree, watching the lights of the Christmas tree.

What I love best about the card-making which I discovered three years ago, is the opportunity I've had to connect with so many people.  I have come to know fellow crafters all over this wonderful world of ours and am so grateful for that.  To all my friends out there, whether you're my customer or a fellow crafter or both, Merry Christmas to you and yours.  I wish I could give each and every one of you a hug but these words will have to do.

I am so grateful for all that I have.  I am so happy that I can share my bounty with others.  I love this time of year and I love you all.  Merry Christmas, everyone.  I hope yours is warm and filled with friends and family.  God bless us---every one!