More than a single word

Dear Laurel,

  Choosing a single word to set a theme and tone for the new year seems to be a popular idea.  I've tried several times and I just haven't been able to make it work.  My visual self needs a picture and I think this a good one.  It was an early spring day in Olympia with a cold, brisk wind, freezing cold rain showers off and on, and the most glorious warm sunbreaks in between. These brilliant windsocks moved with the wind and rain, and danced and sparkled in the sun.  That's what I want to do this year.

All my best,
Kate

Rich

Dear Sonja,

  I hope your winter garden is as full of diamonds as mine is, and I hope you feel as rich as I do.

All my best,

Kate

Winter Sunset



Tulelake Sunset

Dear Cal,

  I have stacks of postcards to write.  I don't know how far I'll get this evening, but the trick is to do the first one then, in theory, the second one should be easier.  A good long Christmas time followed by days and days of mild, barely winter weather has made the early darkness so much easier to bear.  I love this sunset picture--my mother left their dinner cooking on the stove, put on her coat and went outside to capture it.  I think everyone should do that more often; it can change a person's outlook.

All my best,
Kate

Success!

Dear Laurel,

  We did it!  I think everyone is happy, but the grandparents are the happiest of all--in fact they're still flying high.  Just for the record it was not perfect.  After a few days there were the inevitable minor family tensions, I spent Christmas Eve evening at the ER with my mother, I missed the Christmas Eve service, and I didn't count on the ongoing fatigue factor.  But we did have fun, and we have pictures to prove it.  And yes, I would do it again!  Happy New Year to you and yours.

All my best,
Kate

In the thick of it

Dear Laurel,

   This week is like a grand houseparty for my family--a visitor from the other side of the world, two grown up kids back from far away, and the one who has been here all along leaving for England while everyone else is still here.  Even though Christmas Eve is still to come it feels like we must have passed it days ago--with good food, Grandpa's prayers at the table, games, and stories from all the worldwide experiences, everyday has been a high point.    The midnight Christmas Eve service will be the diamond in the crown, though, with songs of joy and quiet thanks for the Unspeakable Gift.  Wishing you the dearest of Christmas blessings~

All my best,
Kate

Christmas is creeping in

Dear Cal,

   I'm in the mode, and Christmas has been quietly creeping into my world--into my office, my house, and my soul.  I've taken the slow but steady approach and am quite happy about it.  Tonight I finished dressing the tree and packed the boxes back into the garage.  While I was working with the ornaments I felt that wonderful, growing excitement that I think everyone wants to feel.  Now from where I sit I can see the nativity figures set out among my books--my statement that Christ came for real people living real lives.  Thanks for the card, I'll be sending mine soon.

All my best,
Kate

I'm not there yet

Dear Sonja,

  Do you feel pushed this year?  I can't believe the feeling of Christmas pressure that caught me by surprise this evening.  The first card of the season arrived in my mailbox today.  The neighbors on both sides have their outdoor lights up and shining brightly. The ads are talking hurry, hurry and won't last long!  Stop. It's only December 1st, I just turned my calendar today. I'm not behind, and I haven't missed anything. I had to take half a second to refocus.  My method of peaceful preparation is simply different than theirs.  If that pressure tries to bite you just tell it no.  See you soon!

All my best,
Kate