Resolution Schmesolution

I don’t like resolutions. Ok, that was a little negative - let me try that again. I like having a plan and firmly believe in having goals . . . but I don’t like resolutions. Ok, one more time. I believe that resolutions are for the birds (was that any better?)

I mentioned that this very time last year … it has something to do with those darn Bally’s Chicago Fitness Club commercials that used to air AROUND THE CLOCK when I was younger – reminding viewers to “get in shape” in the New Year. Augh. Whatever. I just ate 2 dozen cookies and drank enough egg nog to last a lifetime – do I need to see 6-pack abs bouncing around my television screen? I think not.

The other thing I dislike is pointing out when I don’t finish my . . . goals. Because, as the late, great, John Lennon once sung, “Life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans.” So, checking your progress is good – but sometimes plans change. And to me, change is good. So, I decided a long time ago that I wouldn’t do the whole “resolutions” thing here.

But, I would have Goals. Dreams. Plans.

And I would call them something else, too. Not a “To Do List”,but a TA-DA List. (I had a TA-DA list last year and found that it was much more fun than resolutions. LOVE the TA-DAS! Especially if you say it out loud - just as you might imagine I would say it . . . 'TA-DA!!!!!' **insert jazz hand here**!)

My TA-DA’s for 2011 are new and old, as some are repeats from last years TA-DA’s. Some will work well, others will not. And . . . it's ok. Because, as I reminded a very good blog friend of mine just yesterday, we are all HUMAN. 

Last year, my list had 10 Ta Da's on it. Since I didn't complete all of my Ta Da's from 2010, I thought I would bring it down a notch this year and only focus on 8 goals. (At this rate, I'll have only 2 goals to work towards in 2014!) Ah, well. It's all about BELIEVING this year, and this is what I BELIEVE in the New Year . . .

My 2011 Ta Da! List!

1. Schedule a little more one on one time with each of the girls, independent of each other. I think it's so important to them, and good for me, too!
2. Finish that Big Picture Scrapbook class that I took in 2010 (yes, I did take a class ... but never finished the project. This year - I'm going to finish it!)
3. Determine, and stick to, some sort of facial skin regimen (totally need this ... the old skin just isn't what it used to be and boy oh boy have I neglected it!!)
4. 2010 Repeat: Remember BIRTHDAYS and SEND CARDS via US Postal Service (had such high expectations to see this one through - but somehow I just missed A LOT of them. Will try, again!)
5. Take better care of my self  (vague, I know, but oh-so-necessary).
6. Learn and do YOGA (not even sure my body can get into some of those positions, but if I start slowly, perhaps I'll conform.)
7. Return to church . . . regularly.
8. Write something, each day. Focus on the words and the message behind them. Inspire, whether here or on paper. Write. Believe. Write.

So, there you have it. My 2011 Ta Da! List. I love the New Year and these moments of clarity and focus . . . it is the best feeling. Feel free to share any of your goals in the comments. I'd love to hear what is motivating YOU in 2011 . . .  and HAPPY NEW YEAR, my dear dear friends!!!

Create, You've done my heart GOOD!

"I want to create art. I want to create stories. I want to create photographs. I want to create wonderful spaces where my children can play and dream and grow and thrive. I want to create paintings that will inspire others. I want to create sentences, one after another, that will make people smile and laugh out loud. I want to create delicious meals and yummy desserts. I want to create adventures and experiences I've never had before. I want to create a home filled with laughter and peace, an environment that welcomes strangers and encourages friendships. I want to create. All year long."

-taken from my blog post on Wednesday, December 30, 2010.

Thank you for a wonderful year.

Let's welcome 2011, shall we?

Share your Word here.

Word of the Year : 2011 Edition

For the past three years, I’ve adopted a Word to help me focus on the year ahead. The idea originates from Scrapbook extraordinaire Ali Edwards, who reminds us that, "One little word can have big meaning in your life if you allow yourself to be open to the possibilities."

In 2008, I wanted Peace. I looked hard for it. I took deep breaths often throughout my days, and I found it. I meditated. I prayed. I tried to live with Peace in my heart, and put peaceful energy into relationships that needed it. It was a wonderful word for that year.

In 2009, I sought Balance. I needed it, bad. With a husband whose job required him to travel more and more, I felt like I was drowning between home and my own work, between being a Mom and being Me. I needed it to stop. I needed to focus. I needed balance. I said “no” to more things, and I said “yes” to things that brought something good to my life. It was a wonderful word for that year.

In 2010, I yearned to Create. The inner artist in me was starving for attention, and it was time I returned to my roots. I photographed, cooked, painted, scrapbooked, baked . . . I even gardened (which is the true sense of ‘creating’, don’t you think?) It was a wonderful word for that year.

Now, as I approach the New Year, I’ve come up with my next journey of discovery . . . and decided on the word that will help me get there.

In 2011, I Believe . . . 

Google Image search for "believe" - original source unknown



be•lieve

verb \ be•lieved be•liev•ing

1 a : to have a firm religious faith

b : to accept something as true, genuine, or real

2: to have a firm conviction as to the goodness, efficacy, or ability of something

3: to hold an opinion : THINK

The past three years have helped me focus on some really important things in my life – from choices I’ve made to living a happy life, to realizing the importance of creating for my spirit and my soul. This whole exercise of choosing a "Word of the Year" has done more for me than I really ever thought it would.

But when deciding on a word that fit for 2011, I struggled. Until . . . I found “believe”.  Here is the thing . . . I’ve spent a lot of time trying to be a better me. I’ve written many blog posts about things in this life I am blessed with, and shared stories when taking a step back from it and reflecting on the true moments as they were. These things are all GOOD. But, if I don’t BELIEVE . . . then what GOOD am I really doing? So, for 2011 . . . I’m focusing on Believe.

Here are some of the things I believe right now:

• I believe that, deep down, there is good in all people
• I believe that my children can do and be anything they put their minds to
• I believe that love is all you need
• I believe that I am an artist
• I believe that someday we will all be united again
• I believe that if you treat people well, you will be treated well
• I believe that we are truly more alike than different
• I believe that people can change
• I believe that laughter is the very best medicine
• I believe that I am a writer
• I believe that everything happens for a reason
• I believe that raising children is the most difficult, but most rewarding job around
• I believe that I can do anything I put my mind to
• I believe that life is good
• I believe that if you put it out there, it will be returned
• I believe that there isn’t a single cheesecake that I wouldn’t like

So, in 2011 . . . I’m focusing on Believe . . . believing in the things that are important. Believing in the dreams. Believing in today. Believing in tomorrow. Believing in You. Believing in Me.

What about you? What is your word?

Join my linky below and let's BELIEVE in the power of the WORD in the New Year. Or, if you still aren't sure that the "Word of the Year" idea is right for you, simply read some other inspirational posts below to find how others are approaching the New Year.

I'd love to see what Word will lead you in 2011. . .

(The linky will be open until 1/31/2011, so come back and add your post whenever you have it completed. Visit some of the great "Word of the Year" posts below and tell them you read about it here!)

My 2010 Blogland Recap

We sure have grown this year, my little blog and me.

We've stretched our wings and flown to new and exciting places.

We've met some amazing people.

We've nurtured our soul many a times.

We've smelled the roses.

We've laughed. We've cried.

And we've learned lots of lessons the past 12 months.

Oh,  how I wouldn't change a thing.

Here are some of the things I learned this year:
(feel free to click to any of the red subjects below - that will bring you to the exact post)

1. WHO I AM - Discovering who I am on a date with PG . . .  
2. PG SETTING ME STRAIGHT - during a trip to DC, I learned that you really can't take a good picture of these hands of mine (although the ring is OH-SO-COOL!)
3. FEEDING THE SOUL - my daily journey is so important to my soul.
4. CRANKVILLE - Just GOTTA LOVE the "Get Out of Crankville" card! One of my favorite things, for sure!
5. PRIDE and PEACE - when Katie swam on the deep side all by herself this summer - oh how proud I was!
6. OH, THE PLACES SHE'LL GO- at the thought of my little Ella growing up . . . she's getting so big.
7. PHOTOGRAPHY - when I really focus, I actually can take a cool picture ...
8. PURE BLISS - during our family trip to Walt Disney World!
9. TOTAL EXCITEMENT- upon receipt of a special unexpected package from my blogfriend, Anna, at Frosted Petunias!
10. LIVING a HAPPY LIFE - when taking in all of the joy and realizing what really makes me happy.
11. THE LADIES OF THE CELLAR - and time well spent during one of my many Scrapbook Cellar days. I love these ladies - they give me more inspiration and strength than they will ever realize.
12. "BE"ING - when stopping long enough to "BE" and noticed a sunflower in a different stage of life. So beautiful.
13. TOP SECRET INGREDIENTS! - how proud I was of all the great guesses when I put my very yummy Chocolate Chip Cookie "Secret Ingredient" question out there to my blogland friends!
14. LETTING GO - as I waited with great anticipation for the leaves to fly away . . . I loved this lesson.
15. GERITOL #1 & 2 - works of art, for sure!
16. CREATING -  my word of the 2010, and what a great word it is!

Yes, it's been a pretty wonderful year. And next year is going to be just as good . . . Did I tell you - I have decided on my 2011 Word of the Year? I can't wait to share it with you . . . it's going to be a GREAT YEAR for ALL OF US, dear friends!

What have YOU learned in 2010? Leave me a comment . . . I'd love to know!

Flip Sledding Trip

While I stayed home doing laundry and cleaning up the house from our Christmas Festivities . . . here is a quick little video of what PG and Ellie did this afternoon. (I don't know if this video thing is going to work . . . I've never done this before, and don't really anticipate doing this very often. This clip was just tooo cute not to share.) Enjoy!

PG bought himself me a Flip Video thingamajiggie for Christmas. He is I am enjoying it very much!

Sometimes . . .

When the party is over and the dishes are washed,

when the presents are opened and boxes are emptied,

when cookie platters are emptied and crumbs are nibbled up,

when the music is off and only the glimmer of twinkle lights remain,

that is when you know that all of the hustle and bustle

and

crowds

and

traffic

and

wrapping

and

cooking

and

baking

was totally worth it.

Every second of it.

And then, you rest.

For a long long time.

Until you have to do it all over again.

Wishing you continued joy this Sunday.

My Wish for You . . .

As I wind down my week of blogging and spend the hours leading up to Christmas in pure family bliss, I wanted to stop by with one last holiday post for you. We've been friends for quite some time now, and I want you each to know how truly blessed I am to have found you in this massive world of blogdome. While life is pretty complicated and chaotic for so many of us, the one thing that I have learned through this experience is that no matter how big this earth may be . . . when it comes down to it, we are all people just doing the same things - trying to live our lives full of happy moments and purpose, and share those moments with those we love.

Whether you celebrate the Christmas holiday or not, I want to send you some good cheer this week. Thank you for reading my stories and being a part of my life. I look forward our continued journeys of joy as we approach another great year of growth, of learning, of accepting and of loving one another.

My Wish for you, my dear dear friends . . .

that you and yours may have a very

See you in a few days!!

It STILL is a Wonderful Life!

PG and I have a little difference of opinions.

But don’t worry . . . he knows nothing about it.

Kind of like that time when I went on strike. You remember, don’t you? The big "Strike of 2010" (when I wasn’t doing laundry and dishes AT ALL, but he had no idea I was on Strike. I wrote about it here.)

Yes, it’s kind of like that.

You see, I like to spend the days and weeks leading up to the holidays surrounded 100% in total holiday joy. Which means; we watch holiday movies, we sing holiday songs, we eat holiday foods, we wear holiday socks.

PG, on the other hand, does it a little differently. PG watches the Alien Trilogy, Modern Family, or outrageously silly Comedy Central shows. Now, while all of these maybe be perfectly fine (Modern Family is a great show), I just can’t seem to bring myself to do it. I cannot spend a single December day or evening watching . . . Alien Trilogy (or any of the others . . . except maybe Modern Family).

I can’t.

It’s just not right.

When there is a Rudolph and a Frosty waiting? And a “Buddy the Elf”? And George Bailey? I mean . . . I’m sorry. . . I can’t. And on the music front . . . listen, I am a Beatles fan. But just because they have a “White Album” . . . it’s NOT a Christmas album – OK? It’s not. And I will NOT do it! (Until January 2nd, 2011.)

So, sweetheart, (this is you, PG), I love you like CRAZY, but I cannot do Alien Trilogy or Real Genius or anything else like that . . . until the New Year, OK? And since I know you don’t regularly follow my blog . . .by the time you read this (which I anticipate will be some time in February, 2011), we’ll be so far past this recent “difference” that you won’t even know what I’m writing about!

Merry Merry Christmas, Friends!! It STILL is a Wonderful Life!

Fa la la la laaaaaa la la la la!

Tidings of Comfort and Joy

sigh.

Four days before Christmas, and things have been going smoothly. Presents have been bought, wrapped, and strategically hidden for Santa's arrival. Cookies have been baked, packaged, and strategically hidden in the freezer for Christmas day. Clothes have been planned. School favors have been prepared. And all is running smoothly in our home.

That is . . . until 1:00 AM.

"MOMMA? . . . "

Ella woke with a fever, followed by a quick little bought of flu like symptoms. But never fear . . . it was quick, and I think more a reaction to some nasty phlegm than really anything more serious. But it made for an interesting night, as she and I sat up on the couch watching Tom & Jerry; The Nutcracker (of course!) This morning, things were as expected . . . lots of snow, getting Katie ready for school, making arrangements for me to stay home from work, as Ella could not go to school. I had presents to drop off at pre-school and lap tops to pick up at my office, all within a calculated time frame to arrive back home before PG had to start work. It was a crazy morning . . . but really no more crazy than usual.

On the way back home from my office, I made one quick unscheduled stop at our local butcher, CP Meat Market. I've written about them before here. I love CP Meat Market. And today, I had to stop there.

Because 8 years ago today, my father was buried. And my father was a butcher. And whenever I need to feel my Dad . . . I stop at CP Meat Market. They don't know that I have put such responsibility on them, but I have. I can't help it. So this morning, in the middle of solving the crisis of our home and coordinating the comings and goings of our little family, in the middle of making sure that everyone got where they needed to go and knowing that everyone was taken care of, I did a little selfish thing . . . and did something to take care of myself. I went to CP Meat Market.

Silly, isn't it? That a meat market can give you peace?

Yes. It is. I know it is. And that's OK.

At 9:10AM the Tuesday before Christmas, it was already crowded with people picking up their orders. A man in front of me in line picked up his order from a local community park district . . . $862.01 of ham. Can you imagine? Out came box after box full of hams being carried like a float in the Macy's Thanksgiving day Parade. Someone is eating good this Christmas.

When it came my turn to order, I asked for the usual, "Four stuffed chicken breasts, a pepperoni pizza set up, and 1/2 lb. of bologna, please."

"Is there anything else I can get you, Ma'am?" he asked, after completing my list of items.

I wanted to ask if he could, just for a few minutes, send me my Dad. Just to tell me that I would make it through the day, and that this too shall pass. But I didn't. I said, "Nope, that's it."  He turned and clicked away at the register keys to figure out my damages. I looked around the store and for a short time, I felt my Dads presence there with me. I felt Comfort. And Joy. And I didn't want to leave.

As I grabbed my bag and headed towards the door, I paused for a few minutes and looked around. My Dad didn't work in a shop like this, but for some reason, I still feel close to him when I am there. It is a good feeling.

I'm wishing you all a wonderful day, full of Comfort and Joy. You never know where you may receive it, once you open your heart to it. Today, I found it at a our butchers shop. And it was wonderful.

My Nutcrackers

I love the ballet The Nutcracker. When I was a young child, I remember my mom taking us to see it at Arie Crown Theater in downtown Chicago. My dear Auntie Alice (my dad's sister) worked at Arie Crown, and many Christmas seasons were spent with us driving into the city to see this wonderful production. I was probably close to the same age Katie is right now (7) and to me, it was the most magical thing we did all season long.

I remember getting all dressed up for the occasion, in our Sundays best. Nowadays, you will find people in all kinds of attire at the theater, from sequin dresses to jeans. But back then, it was most certainly a special occasion. (Contrary to what you might believe, I'm not really the sequins gown sort of girl. I still believe that the theater is meant to be a special occasion, so I will dress "up" - but, no sequins for me!)

Thinking back to those performances, I can imagine walking into the theater finding row after row of plush red velvet seating. As a young child, I felt as if I had stepped into a whole new world, and do believe that this was my first introduction to the theater (something that I became very involved in later in time.) The set design was so beautiful and festive, the dancers were so graceful as if dancing on air, and the music . . . oh, what to say? I had no idea who Tchaikovsky was at the time, but appreciated him just the same and was in complete awe of the festive mood that came over me when listening to the orchestra play. I was lost in this little land of Christmas and nutcrackers coming to life, and felt like the little Clara who receives the beloved nutcracker in the play.

It has been years over 30 years, I'm sure, since I've seen The Nutcracker on stage. But my love for it has expanded to a full blown collection of holiday nutcrackers. Started years ago by a few that PG had from his grandmother, and encouraged by the gifts of many from my sister and brother-in-law through the years, our collection has grown to 20 nutcrackers. As I decorate the house for the holidays each year, and open the bin they are stored in, I immediately smile as I place them ever so gently on display. From a ballerina to a fisherman, from a chef to a snowman, from a mouse, to Joseph, Mary and Baby Jesus, they each make me so happy when I look at them.

Yes, my nutcrackers are special to me. But they are so much more than a Christmas decoration. To me, they are a reminder of a magical time in my childhood. They remind me of the excitement of the season and of getting all dressed up for a special day in the big city. They remind me of plush red velvet chairs and an orchestra warming up. They remind me of a simpler time when I didn't have a care or worry in the world. They remind me of family members passed, and of a true wonderful time in my life.

Any part of your holiday decorations that reminds you of your younger days? Leave me a comment . . . I'd love to know.

SIgned, Sealed and Delivered

Yes, our Christmas wishes are well on their way to the North Pole, as Katie and Ella signed their letters to Santa and dropped them in the mail this week!

I absolutely love letters to Santa . . . it's probably one of the sweetest moments in the weeks leading up to Christmas. The whole "Santa thing" is really so magical, isn't it? Next year, I fear our Katie will be asking some serious questions about the whole Mr. C. and gift exchange routine as she has already been told by a few classmates that Santa isn't real. She came home from school a few weeks ago and said, "Mom, a boy at school told me that Santa wasn't real."  I thought that the time had come ALREADY . . . and cautiously asked for her reply to him. She reenacted the moment word for word, "I told him, 'Yeah, right . . . (role of the eye) . . . like my parents are REALLY going to climb down the chimney to leave me presents. I don't think so.' Boys are so silly, Mom."

I love her.

I decided to help them out a bit and type their letters as they dictated to me verbatim. Ella's letter is a hoot, as she really decided to go off on a bit of a tangent and get into the whole "elf" thing. So funny. . .

The DVD player for the car is something that PG and I spoke about purchasing a month or so ago. Katie remembered that we wanted it and thought she'd help us out by asking Santa for it. (I told her to add the "if you can" into her note, because that really wasn't on her wish list - just mine. I heard that Santa will be bringing that as a big family gift for all of us, since he braved the Black Friday crowds and picked one up at Target!! LOVE that Santa!!!)

Today is Christmas cookie baking, and we have three (possibly four) cookies on the list to complete. I'll share photos with you tomorrow . . . because I have to say, I have brought * * * CRAZY * * * to a whole NEW level today. We're talking, Christmas earrings, socks AND headband. Yep, sometimes we must forego fashion for a little holiday spirit!!

Happy Sunday to all of you, dear friends. I hope you have a little Christmas Magic in your weekend, too.

Best Line of the Week #4

What a fantastically awesome group of blog friends I have. So many of the comments on my post yesterday really hit home . . . but one, in particular, must be repeated. That one is from my dear friend, Mitzi, over at "Daily Reflection" who wrote:

Mitzi, dear dear friend, you hit the nail right on the head . . .I was SO overthinking it! And while "LIVE" may not be the word I'm going with for 2011, the whole idea of "LIVE" (and your comment) brought a big ol'smile to my face and a tear in my eye. It reminds me a line from one of my very favorite movies and plays, "Auntie Mame", where the dear Mame Dennis says, "Live! Life's a banquet and most poor suckers are starving to death!" How true, how true!

So dear Mitzi, thank you so very much for helping me realize that LIVING is what really matters.

And for you, a very special "Best Line of the week" Award!

<center><a href="http://fromchaoscomeshappiness.blogspot.com/2010/10/best-line-of-week-1.html"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gRYhRiXHhrE/TKatW63LrGI/AAAAAAAAB2k/ElECos0IKMk/s200/Bestline.jpg" /></a></center>
Feel free to grab a badge and post it on your blog, dear Mitzi. And thank you for understanding ME and knowing exactly what I need to hear! You are a dear dear friend!

If you don't know Mitzi, take a little visit to her pad. You can find her here (it really is a lovely place to visit! You'll like it so much, you'll wish you could move in!)

My Daily Journey - Part III

I've been thinking a great deal about my Word for 2011,  putting much more time and thought into it than I ever have in previous years. You remember ... this is THE word by which I hope to focus much of my life on during 2011. THE word to help me live an enriched and rewarding year, and will remind me to make good use of this life of mine for the 365 days in 2011.

But somewhere along the search for THE word, I became rather confused. 

So, I called upon my spiritual advisors for some help. I feel quite blessed to have a number of spiritual advisors in my life. One is the Big Man upstairs (and, no ... I'm not talking about Santa. Or PG.) Anyway, I shared a few of my thoughts with the Big Man on my ride to work yesterday. While doing that, I took a photo of that daily journey road that I've shared with you before. Here is my peaceful route as it greeted me yesterday. . .

Crisp. Quiet. Calm. A beautiful moment with plenty of time to reflect and contemplate. Just the Big Man and me.  However, at the end of the road I was no closer to deciding on my Word, than I was at the start of the trip. I felt at peace, but still couldn't make a decision.

You see, I have it narrowed down to two words. One is a plan for the "now", while the other is a plan for the "tomorrow". 

So, last evening, I emailed one of my other spiritual advisors (my dear friend, PK) and asked for her input. Without telling her my words, I asked for any insight she could offer to help me with my decision. And being the dearest friend she is, she replied with exactly what I needed. She said,

"As I read your email, the first thing that came to mind was this expression: “Live for today and tomorrow will take care of itself.” I think living in the now, focusing on the now, gives you a richer life experience. I strongly believe that when you focus on tomorrow, you miss so much of what the Universe (God) is putting in front of you AND you run the risk of putting more on your plate than you need, thereby causing more stress in your life. My vote: Focus on the NOW!"

So there you have it. With a little help from a quiet ride, and an email to a friend, I have decided on my Word for 2011.

Oh, but I can't tell you what it is, yet. We still have much Christmas joy and holiday stories to share.

Come back closer to New Years, and I'll share my word at that time.

But, how about you? Have you decided to give it a go? Have you picked YOUR word? Leave me a comment . . . I'd love to know.

Random Thinking Moments of “Is It Me-isms”

Tuesday I shared some of my very favorite Christmas albums, with the sidebar that I absolutely adore the men listed. While I still stand by my claims of vocal bliss, I was called on the carpet by a dear blogfriend over at A Belle, A Bean & A Chicago Dog.  Yes, Liz down right crushed my first two selections (poor Josh and JT.)  This has me . . . bothered.

You see, I adore Liz. I mean . . . what's not to love about her? An original Chicago girl from my neck of the woods, she is a super funny lady who is raising 2 little girlies just like me, and in the middle of it all has built an amazing blog empire (yes, EMPIRE!). In addition to that, her hubby is one mean cake decorater! Come on! She's the tops.

But, as worries of her un-subscribing have kept me up at night (ok . . . not totally true. . . I threw it in for dramatic effect), I started to think about it further. I mean . . . James Taylor? COME ON!!! How could she NOT adore this man???

So, I began to wonder . . . is it . . . me? Then, in my "Random Thinking Moment" mind (it's been a while since I've done that, hasn't it?), my thoughts traveled from Christmas Carols to other day to day events that have me wondering . . . perhaps it IS me. Perhaps JT is not all that I crack him up to be. Hmmm . . .

So, allow me, if you will, to share some more "Is it Me-isms", in honor of Mr. James Taylor himself.

1. Is it me, or do you sometimes feel like you are the only sane person surrounded by a bunch of nutballs?
2. Is it me, or is snow so much prettier to look at than to drive in?
3. Is it me, or do you wait until the very last minute to use the restroom, too?
4. Is it me, or does it seems that the freight train will ALWAYS come when you are running late for something important (like, picking the kids up from school)?
5. Is it me, or do only my children have a “potty dance” when they really have to go – but don’t want to stop what they are doing?
6. Is it me, or do the winters seem so much colder as you age, than they did when we were kids?
7. Is it me, or does red wine give you hot flashes, too?
8. Is it me, or are the people who smoke AND fill up their gas tanks at the same time completely and totally DUMB??

I have many more of these "Is It Me-Isms", but I'll leave those for another day. If you have any to share - leave me a comment with your very own "Is It Me-ism". I'd love to know.

Day Dreamy Secret . . .

While hard at work today, and listening to some lovely holiday music, I started thinking about my dream Holiday concert. If I could have my favorite musicians come together to sing to me, who would it be? Oh, there are so many to choose from. Hmmm . . . let me see . .

I love this man . . .

I mean, I love him. That's it.

Oh, and this man, too . . .

I mean, what's not to love about him?
Oooo . . .how could I forget? I really really love this man, too . . .

I mean, he's just dreamy!!!

Oh, then this one really can't do any wrong when it comes to Christmas Carols . . .

 I mean . . .he is the originally swooner, isn't he?

Yes, I love these men.

Who are you loving this season and who would play at your dreamy concert?

Any music that warms your heart?

Leave me a message,

I'd love to know.

Brrr um pum pum pum . . .

Here's a bit of what I'll be heading out into in a few short minutes . . .

SERIOUSLY!!!  Poor Santa, he's going to be a big ol'ice cube flying through our skies!

I'm a thinking it's time to relocate!!!

How is the weather by YOU today?

Crazy Sock Lady

When I grow up . . . ;) . . . I think I want to be the crazy sock lady.

I thought good and hard about being the crazy earring lady, or the crazy glasses lady.Then I thought about being the crazy red lipstick lady, or the crazy orange skinned lady and decided they weren't just for me. Ooooo - maybe I can be the crazy slipper lady? Or the crazy scarf lady? No. Not right. And I think I'm way too cool to be the crazy sweater lady.

But the crazy sock lady? Yes, I think that fits me. As you know . . . I've got the "crazy" part down . . . now I need the socks.

So, I bought myself about 6 pairs of crazy holiday socks this year (I stumbled upon a REALLY GREAT black Friday sale, and was suckered into the penguins, snowmen and Santa on globe designs.) Since then, I can't get enough. I want more. MORE CRAZY SOCKS. I don't want to stop with snowmen and dancing penguins. NO! I want leprechauns and pots of gold.  I want chickies and Easter eggs. I want peace signs and monkeys and stripes and polka dots and cow patterns and, and, and . . .  more!

Yes . . . I want to be the crazy sock lady.

What kind of lady do you want to be? Leave me a comment . . . I'd love to know.

Lessons learned on a Saturday Afternoon in December

There is no such thing as a "really quick game of Monopoly."

Playing said "really quick game of Monopoly" with a 3 year old, can turn it into an even LONGER game of Monopoly.

Offering the 3 year old a cup of tea while playing the game can turn it into an even LONGER version of the LONG "really quick game of Monopoly", because she must stop at take a sip of the tea at the exact moment it is her turn to role the dice.

You may find that money just "appears" in front of you, when playing with a 3 year old, because all she really wants to do is give you things she has collected while playing. I mean, who needs these papers anyway?

But there is no other place I would rather be than right here . . . on a cold, blizzardy day . . . than picking up dice and moving spaces with my family.

Yes, Life is Good.

What's Next?

How funny . . .

December 10th. There must be something happening in the universe that pulls me on this very day. Something that calls to me, and has me thinking about tomorrow. Something that has me planning. Re-focusing. For it was one year ago TODAY that I wrote my post on my Word for 2010 (click here to see that post.) One year ago, on this VERY DAY, I sat thinking about the direction I wanted my life to go in the new year. This VERY day.

How funny . . .

Today I woke up with these very same thoughts. As 2010 comes to a close (at record speeds, it feels like), I am thinking about the year that was and the year that will be.  If you've been around at all this past year, you may remember that my word for 2010 was "CREATE". And as I reflect on the journey of the past 12 months, I have to say that I am pleased with where I've been. It's been a great year of CREATING. From art to crafts, from relationships to memories, the thought of my word carried a strong presence in all that I did.

I really love this whole "Word of the Year" idea. It has helped me focus on areas in my life that I really wanted to take notice of. It has helped me be a better me. And the words have carried on, each staying with me long after the New Year. That's a really good thing.

Here is a list of the words I've brought into my life since starting this whole way of thinking:

2008 - Peace

2009 - Balance

2010 - Create

And as usual . . . I'm thinking ahead. Where do I want to go in 2011? Oh, the possibilities . . . have you thought about it at all? Join me. . . where do we want to go in the New Year? What do we hope to accomplish? What do we want to focus on? How to we wish to spend our days? What kind of people do we want to be?

I haven't quite made my selection yet (there are so many great ones out there, don't you think?) But here are just a few of the words I am thinking of (maybe one will work for you):

If you commit to the New Year by way of a simple little WORD, I promise you that you will find yourself going out of your way to live by it. You'll find yourself focusing on it daily, and trying to bring that word more into your life throughout the year. Take some time for yourself, and consider choosing a word for YOUR year. If you care to share in the comments, I'd love to know what your dreams are for 2011 . . .

A Gift Idea that you've just GOT to see!

Just a quick little post today, dear friends, with a simple gift-giving idea for the little girls in your life. Even more important (during these financially challenged days), is that the gift is COMPLETELY and TOTALLY inexpensive! (But the young girls in your life will LOVE it!)

You may remember this past summer when Katie got her ears pierced (for her 7th Birthday). The whole "earring" thing has been quite an exciting addition to her life. I, on the other had, was going crazy trying to help her keep her earrings together in her little drawer jewelry box. After an unsuccessful search trying to find an easy little girl container for her to use (that's the key here), I knew I had to come up with some way to contain Katie's new jewels.

My sister came up with an idea to put holes in some sort of box. I started with that thought . . . and went with it. A little field trip to my handy dandy Michaels Craft Store was all I needed. I found these really cool plastic boxes in different sizes and colors, ranging in price from $1 to $3 dollars.

Then, with a little paper poker scrapbook tool, I poked holes through the cover of the box.

Enter - a little black sharpie marker and some doodles here and there, and you've got a great earring holder. Here is Katie's finished box  . . .

My dear friend, Kathleen (who always supports my million dollar ideas), asked me to make a few of them for her to give as Christmas gifts. So, here is the stack of what I just finished for her . . .

She is going to fill them with little pairs of earrings and lots of other goodies that little girls would LOVE to receive!

So, there you have it friends! A quick and easy little gift idea - from me to you! Enjoy! And if you think you can't do this . . . I'll tell you . . . YOU CAN!!! It was THAT EASY! But don't tell my friend, Kathleen! I don't want her to know that it's so easy she could have done them herself!!! ;)

Top 10 of Happiness Today

1. SNOWMEN!!!
2. Sunny Winter Days
3. Snuggling on the couch while watching "Polar Express"
4. Taking time to breathe . . .
5. Red wine (even though it brings on my hot flashes . . . hot flashes can be convenient on a cold winters day)
6. Keeping up with the laundry
7. Thinking of dear friends
8. Someone else making dinner
9. Really long scarves (so I can wrap them around my neck twice, and feel snug as a bug in a rug)
10. Ella Fitzgerald's voice (that's who my "Ella" was named after, after all!)

What is making YOU happy today? Leave me a comment with your list . . . I'd love to know!

December Daily 2010 . . . here we come!

Yes, it's that time of year, my friends! Time for keeping up with our month of holiday celebrations and fun by way of the December Daily scrapbook. (Non-scrapbook friends, please allow me to indulge in my scrapbook side by sharing my latest and greatest creative project.)

So, last year I made our family's very first "December Daily" album . . . you may remember the posts here or here.  What is a December Daily scrapbook? Well, it's a count down of the days and activities leading up to what I feel is the very best holiday of all, Christmas. The idea, taken from scrapbook extraordinaire Ali Edwards, has been a very favorite of mine. Here is a little glimpse of what I've got for this year, so far:

The cover (above). I decided to go a little more tradition this year, and used an very simple 8 inch x 8 inch American Craft 2-Ring binder/scrapbook. LOVE how it turned out. Very simple. Simple really is the whole idea this year.

The first page on the inside . . . the title page. I found a pack of K&Company paper that "spoke to me" and I will be using it through the whole project. I also decided to hand write all my journaling . . . so it's truly a part of me.

December 1 - most of the pages are 8 x 8, however I did throw a couple 6 x 6 inserts here or there, just to make it a little interesting.

December 2 - Time to make our Christmas cards. Ella and Katie helped me with some really great card kits this year . . . so easy.

December 3 - A shot of Ella's tree, and a reminder of Christmas shopping at Michaels. LOVE Michaels!

Love the little foil numbers I found to use for all 25 days . . . they just scream festive jolly times!!! (Or, maybe that's me singing Christmas songs when using them. I get confused!)

A picture of what's to come . . . lots and lots of pages waiting to capture our holiday adventures and activities!

This has really turned into one of my most fun December Traditions.

Anything you are doing this December on the craft front? Leave me a comment and let me know . . . I'd love to hear about it!

Every once in a while . . . a girl just needs a Dad

They are calling for snow in the Chicagoland area tonight. At approximately 12 o'clock, midnight, we are expected to see a few million white flakes fall from the heavens above. . . and rumor has it they will continue until about 10 am. I've never been one to listen to the weather experts - at least those in Chicago. So I am a bit skeptical.

But others believe we are heading towards the first big snow fall of the season.

Earlier today, I did a little Christmas shopping at one of my favorite places . . . Costco. LOVE my COSTCO! While walking through the store picking up bananas, a bottle of my favorite wine, brand new winter gloves and Christmas tissue paper, I noticed a number of people with new snow shovels in their shopping carts. At first I thought, "Gees . . . worry warts." By the third or forth cart, I thought, "Hmmmm . . . maybe I should check them out. I don't want to miss anything."

So, I headed over to the testosterone aisle full of power washers, packs of 30 shammies and 20 gallon packs of motor oil. There I found two shovels. One, on sale for $19.99, looked like the a good ol'fashioned shovel in a lovely shade of red, just like what I have hanging in my garage at home. The second, for $29.99, looked like some sort of architecture wonder of the world . . . bright yellow in color, with a handle that curved like a pretzel gone terribly wrong.

Of course, I reached for the "pretzel gone wrong" shovel, which was $29.99 . . . because that's what I do. I mean, more expensive obviously means better, right? ;)

I started to act out the whole "shoveling" routine . . . right there in the aisle at Costco. I wanted to get a real good feel for the shovel, and make sure it worked. As I pushed the shovel back and forth, I heard, "You don't need that one. Too expensive. Won't make the job any easier for you." And I turned to see an older gentleman standing there, with a baseball hat on his head and his hands in his coat pockets. "No?" I asked, "You don't think it's worth it?" "No. Not at all," he answered. "Look at it," he said, as he picked up another shovel just like it and started to slide it back and forth on the floor, just as I had done seconds before. "You still have to pick up the snow and drop it, and actually, this design will make it harder to get the snow off," he demonstrated. "Save your money," he said.

"Thanks," I told him, "you're right. I see that now." 

My Dad passed away 8 years ago this month, and not a day goes by that a thought of him doesn't pop into my head. Today, it was at Costco. Because even though I didn't know this man in the shovel aisle . . . I felt for a brief moment like Dad was there with me, telling me to save my money and that this shovel was not what I needed. And that is exactly what I needed right then and there. 

I strongly believe that we are surrounded by angels in life, we just aren't always open to them. Today, I had a visit with one. And for that, I am most grateful.