Many Thanks

I want to say thanks for the kind words y'all said after my opinionated post on the Connecticut shooting.  I hesitated in writing it and I even considered turning off the comments because, let's face it, even though we all have a right to have and share our own opinions we all know a few people who get bent out of shape over opinions.  But that's a whole different issue and one I'd rather not get into *smile*!

It blessed my heart and encouraged me that there are other people that have the same values as I and see the need to get back to the basics of God and family.

I also want to thank those of who you said a prayer for me last Sunday evening.  The cantata went well.  The choir did an outstanding job and made my job of directing pretty easy.

I have to say that I have a whole new respect for those that lead music, whether it be a choir, orchestra or band.  Talk about multi-tasking!  They read the music, follow the words, watch for time changes, listen for missed notes or parts to be worked on later, all while waving their arms or batons around in the air!  Yep, a whole new respect for their talent.

After I cut the choir off on the last note, I breathed a sigh of relief, gave a huge smile and nod of approval to the choir then made those that were seated stand while I stepped aside.

The congregation was on their feet and clapping.  I think they enjoyed it!

All the hard work from the choir, sound tech, lighting tech/Pastor and stage manager paid off.

I received two beautiful bouquets of flowers.  One from my family...

 and one from the church...

Aren't they beautiful?  I think I was as red as some of the flowers!

It was a lovely evening.  I led the congregation in singing a couple of Christmas carols; the children made their handbell choir debut, sang a song with hand motions and recited a poem leaving the choir with a hard act to follow then the Pastor said a few words (OK, a lot of words, but that's what Pastor's do, hahaha!)!

Then, of course, their was food afterwards with a visit from Santa!

Now this week, I can concentrate on everything that needs to be done last minute when moving, fun, fun!

So, thanks again!  Y'all are the best!

Till next time,

Countdowns

As of late, my life has been full of countdowns to various events or happenings.  Some appear to be approaching fast, some slow.

For instance, the first countdown is approaching fast and will be here in less than nine hours... our church's Christmas Cantata at 6:00 p.m. (Eastern).  What, no big deal you say!  Well usually it's not a big deal when I'm singing in it or even have a solo.  I read music which makes it a lot easier and not very stressful.  I also enjoy singing so it's fun.

Then why all the fuss?  Well, this year, I'm directing the cantata, yikes!  This is my first attempt at directing so I'm a tad nervous.  The choir is ready.  Me?  Let's hope I'm ready too!  (Say a prayer for me... I'd appreciate it!)

The next countdown... in six days my CountryBoy flies home, woohoo!  He's flying home to celebrate Christmas and to help finish packing up for our trip out west.

A big countdown after that... is Christmas in nine days!  Nine days, yikes!  I'm not ready.  Are you?  I still have a few handmade gifts to finish up and I still need to purchase a few more.  

Christmas Cactus

And in ten days, the day after Christmas, CountryBoy and I are pulling out and heading west driving the Jeep with two cats, a dog and towing a cargo trailer.  I'm REALLY not ready for that either.

LizzieBelle is ready.  See her checking every thing out?  And all the pink stuff?  For a change it's not mine, hahaha, that's Miss LizzieBelle's new bed, towel and warm jacket for life out west.  Spoiled much?  Naaahh!

So, needless to say, a lot's been going on around here... making gifts, selling chickens, choir practices, changing addresses, vet appointments, meeting with friends to say 'see ya out west sometime' rather than goodbye, purging for garage sales, packing, making lists of last minute stuff to pack, buying a cargo trailer, picking up cargo trailer 3 1/2 hours away, having a fence installed, etc.  My motto right now?  One day at a time!

Do you have any countdowns other than Christmas?

Till next time,

Handmade Holiday

Amid the decision-making, the packing, the planning and prepping, the choir practices, the farm chores, etc., I am in the process of making several handmade goodies for the family for Christmas.

I really enjoy the whole process of a handmade item.

Deciding what to make for a certain individual.

Choosing a color they might like.

And the whole experience of crafting and creating a special gift for the special people in my life.

They may be simple gifts but each are created and crafted with love.

Isn't that what Christmas is all about?

Till next time,

Tis The Season

for

snow,

cold weather,

mulled cider,

shopping,

giving,

cantatas,

eggnog,

and

celebrating.

Pink Christmas Cactus

Living in Florida, there will be some cold days here and there but no snow.  Today, I broke a sweat while out and about doing my errands.  I do have Christmas Cacti, though, that are blooming to remind me that it is December and Christmas is around the corner!

I doubt I will drink any mulled cider this year even though it's good stuff!

Most of my shopping is done.  I have just a few more items to pick up and one more item to make.  The Christmas cards are ordered and on their way then I'll address and send them out.

Choosing the perfect gift can sometimes be stressful but giving them is so much fun.  I have a difficult time waiting until Christmas to give the gifts.  So, I wrap them right away and put them under the tree so that I won't be tempted to give them early!

Lots of Christmas cantatas are being presented by churches.  Go check one out.  Some are major productions while others are small but just as meaningful.  Our cantata is the week before Christmas.  Old-fashioned Christmas carols being sung to various scenes played out by the children and youth.  What is cuter and more simple than that?

I broke down today and bought some eggnog.  Yum!  I know there are lots of calories in eggnog but I don't care.  It's only out once a year so I'm going to enjoy it for the whole month of December!

I can't wait to celebrate the birth of Christ with my family! It's a great time of year.  Yes, it can be busy, hectic and stressful if you let it be.  I am choosing to keep it simple this year.  Simple decorations, simple gifts.  Don't let the busyness of the season take away from the joy and the true meaning of Christmas!  Enjoy the time spent with friends and family this Christmas season!

How 'bout you?  Are you ready for Christmas?

Till next time,