December. Whadaya think? This month is about as wide-open as it gets. Ca-Ray-Zee. For many of us, there’s not a lot of down time. I’m probably not telling you anything you don’t already know.
Do writers honestly have time to write anything in December? I find myself too busy to keep up with writing or reading blogs right now. What can I say? I'm a highly sought-after individual, thus, my attention is divided in many different directions. Like many of you, I'm too dang occupied during the holidays to think straight. But don't feel sorry for me. About 99% of what's going on is good, all good. It's just a lot.
I was amused recently when I checked the calendar app on my phone. My feelings of being slightly overwhelmed were justified when I glanced at the overview of the month of December. Note that a small blue dot indicates that I have an event or appointment of some kind scheduled on that day. Is this month full, or what?

Besides my hectic schedule, we are preparing for a move, and our lives are divided between two different houses. One foot in this house; one foot in that house. Some things are here; some things are there. Don't forget this; don't forget that. What should we do about this; how should we handle that?
Things are very unsettled. I'm trying to keep my wits about me. Planning to celebrate our first Christmas in the new house has required more forethought than I expected. Everything will work out, I have no doubt, but, as one who likes to have a firm handle on every situation, I have been a little discombobulated. Because everything's, well, new and different. Exciting, but different.
Enough about me. How are your holidays going? Are you into the spirit of giving? Any complications or surprises this year? Feeling calm, cool, and collected? Or running a little frazzled? Are you anchored in your beliefs and traditions? Or taking a loosey-goosey approach? I’d really like to know.
Amidst my personal chaos, I am careful to allow myself some Zen moments, where I calm the outside noise, relax, and refill my spirit. Like I said, things are good. I am really looking forward to spending time with family and friends in the coming weeks, celebrating Christmas, and winding down the year. Good ole’ 2025. And, I'll take a blogging break until January.
This week I snapped a few pictures of some happenings. Enjoy....








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I hope you have a marvelous holiday time with your loved ones! Sending Peace and Love to you all!!
The soup looks delicious and that deer super cute. How lucky are you to have such creatures pop in. ( But I guess I have kangaroos pop in at times too) Cheers from Australia.
Thank you. It's nice to hear from your part of the world!
There are not too many Aussie bloggers and some have left the blogosphere so I am glad to be one among a few. Nice to meet you here.
Merry Christmas to you and your family! And I loved the photo of the Golden driving.....
Thanks, and same to you, Ann!
Here's to a very fine 2026!
Yeah, absolutely!
No time to write? I hear you! I'm in the midst of my Caucasus series and all I've been putting out lately are already-written baking and doors posts. I just have no time to write. I expect that will change when we get back from Aruba. Ahhhhh, breathe... things will settle down then.
I don't envy your moving at this time of year, although I'm sure it's exciting (and maybe bittersweet?) to spend the holidays in your new house.
Have a marvelous holiday!
T/A Happy holidays! Aruba? I'm jealous -- that's where we honeymooned 40 years ago! Yall have fun!
Happy to hear you're making the move! We're home for Christmas. Gathering boxes to start our packing. They put the trusses up this week. So many decisions ahead. We're only moving 12 mi, but any move is hard. I hope we can meet up in '26 on the water or land. Happy Holidays! - Tamyra and Scott
Tamyra, we're excited. It's still a little bit of a slow burn, but we hope to be completely moved in 1st quarter. We will definitely reach out when thigs get settled Congrats on your new house!
I had grand notions of dusting off my novel-in-progress and getting back into writing this month, now that there is no yard work to be done, but...yeah. You're right: the holidays are hectic!
By the way, I think the soup, Dot's pretzels, and sliced cutie are pretty much a perfect lunch this time of year. Well done. Hope the rest of your month is less chaotic and your holidays are merry and bright.
Aren't Dot's pretzels the best? Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to yall too!
Yes! We discovered them when we moved to South Dakota, before they were available anywhere else. We used to send bags to all our friends and family in the PNW!
Great photos! I love the Golden Retriever going shopping! And the one of you all out on the town, of course.
You're right - it is crazy! I can't believe you are moving on top of it all. Madness!
Here's to it all working out one way or another! Sending you best wishes for a wonderful Christmas! <3
Much joy and happiness to yall too!