Grandmother's Christmas ornaments

December 18, 2013

With all the homemade cakes, pies, and cookies being made around here, including these delicious cinnamon rolls. . .







. . . and this from-scratch chocolate cake my daughter made her daddy yesterday for his birthday . . .




I decided we better be eating lots of fruits and veggies, too.






Lots of root vegetables and some acorn squash, drizzled with olive oil, RealSalt, freshly ground pepper, and rosemary. Sometimes I add asparagus if I have it, or tomatoes. I roast these in the oven at 400 F for about an hour, stirring occasionally. It is delicious and filling and healthy. Any combination of onion, sweet potatoes, parsnips, turnips, carrots, brussel sprouts, acorn squash, and butternut squash works well.


Christmas time brings with it lots of wonderful memories of people dear to us. My grandmother has been gone for more than 25 years, but I think of her every day. She made these ornaments . . .






Whimsical and fun, they are a treasure to put on the tree every year.




I love to spend time every day sitting by the fire and reading. The lights from the tree, the warmth of the fire, candles flickering on the mantle, and a hot cup of tea all conspire to keep me feeling content and very blessed. A couple books that I enjoy pulling out include . . .










This is a lovely book that I keep on the coffee table, and open to whatever month we're in. The author, Edith Holden, did all the painting and lettering herself. She includes a record of nature observations in the English countryside where she lived, and poems and quotes about each season.



Another book that has inspiring pictures and seasonal inspiration is this . . .


This was especially fun to read through when my children were at home, as it inspired me to work at creating special memories for them. It depicts nostalgic, Victorian traditions for holidays throughout the year, and includes suggestions for soothing everyday rituals as well. The Christmas season is not nearly as busy for me as it was then, but I am grateful for all the memories we built together, and the laughter and joy we have recalling them. They are a bulwark against life's storms and uncertainties.


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