All it took was a look...and I was hooked.

The Burlington Facade of the Royal Academy of Arts, London, England.

Artist: Timothy Richards

I received this beautiful work of art for Christmas. It is one of many arch doorways (the Burlington facade) of the Royal Academy of Arts - London, England. Created by Timothy Richards, it is one of a kind, made in Bath, England.

I could refer to it as a book-end, but would rather define it as a piece of architectural sculpture. It is difficult to capture the detail and beauty of this lovely work of art via digital camera. This particular photo was the one I chose. When I sit in our living room, I find myself staring at this beauty, admiring it. Now, all I have to do is go to the actual Royal Academy of Arts. Until then...I smile.

Peace

Artist: Stephen Lyman

When I started this blog in October 2008, I did not have any specific expectations. However, you in the Blog world have literally swept me off my feet. There is a wonderful sharing of spirits, and I enjoy being a part of it.
My wish for you and your family is to have a joyful Christmas season.
Love is love.
Merry Christmas!
~Kathleen

The little ones

Birds come every morning to the feeders we have for them. It is extremely interesting to watch their habits etc. We love helping them, considering there's not much anymore in the way of berries and other food for them to rustle up. Please don't forget the little ones in our nature world.

Do I ever miss her...

At this time of year, I especially miss my paternal Grandmother. Unfortunately, I was too young to remember much about my maternal Grandmother, other than to hear wonderful stories about a very kind woman. So, you see, I have been blessed twice. And I take blessings very seriously.

My Father's Mother was Mary, and she was energetic, kind and warm to everyone she met. Whether you were a relative, or grandchildren's friends, she welcomed all to her home with a beverage, food, a smile and twinkling blue eyes. Oh, how I miss her!

Christmas was her favorite holiday. She baked and cooked for her large Italian family. And she decorated the tree, bought gifts and told us Santa was to arrive when we were sleeping. How excited were a couple of dozen eager young children we were. My family has such wonderful memories, especially with her in our lives.

I've been thinking about her lately, as I prepare my own Christmas. We share a love for baking and cooking. I'm learning to cook certain foods from my Mom, so the tradition will continue on. I just wish my Grandmother was here to see that she has passed on some of her traditions to me. I know she's smiling from above. I can feel her. It's just that sometimes my heart aches for her.

Merry Christmas Grandma... I love you with all my heart and soul. Thank you for sharing your love.

Christmas in December

The words are simple, and the meaning speaks volumes...take time to enjoy the beauty of the season. I have always loved the month of December. My Mother use to make "Christmas in December" happen all month long, as if it were magical...and it was...and it still is. The warm scents of cookies and candles, listening to Christmas music, and wrapping presents for family and friends. Then decorating the house and our tree, squealing with delight over our favorite ornaments and saying "oh, I remember this ornament"! Actually, I still do that.

Today I was exiting a shop, and a man held the door open for me. When I smiled and said "thank you" his reply was "Seasons Greetings". Those words resonated within me. I believe Christmas is about love and hope. Let us bestow that on one another this season, as we hurry about with our lists in hand. Let us remember, we are all human beings and we all need love...even from people we don't know. I believe it makes us feel part of a larger world. To extend yourself with simple words such as "good morning" or "thank you" can lift the spirits of someone you don't even know, and needs your smile...more than you know.
Season's Greetings!