Christmas

 It's hard to imagine that Christmas is twelve days away. I've been listening to "Somewhere in my memories" by John Williams from the Home Alone soundtrack and I can't help but feel nostalgic about all the Christmases passed. Thinking about those far away separated by distance, those whose here, and those separated by death. Thinking of the younger me, the younger siblings and the younger versions of my parents. If I could go back, if I can undo, relive, if only I could... I would do so much more for all my loved ones. As each year come to pass and we all get a little older, you would think the holidays become easier. They do not. You end missing these same people year after year. You think about all those moments gone too soon. Somehow in the middle of all this mess, you find what matters and you hold onto them tightly. That's me this holiday season. I'm glad Christmas is quickly approaching! I need some cold weather, some snow and some holiday cheers! Earlier I went to lunch in shorts and a tee and it felt good! Like I said, we really need the cooler weather to come around to help with the Christmas mood. Well, presents are wrapped. Christmas program is planned. Food menu is set. I can't wait until Christmas day. Until then, here's some photo dump for your viewing pleasure. :)

My home does not have a mantle. It's the strangest thing especially for Georgia, so here's a Christmas garland on the bar island. I know you can't see it, but it's actually quite beautiful and festive. 

Christmas with my in-laws will be at our place this year so every week they've been delivering presents. Each present proves to be larger than the boxes before. I can't wait to see what's inside!

Finally, my husband and I had some down time to watch Hawkeye, which I like and enjoyed so far. We still have two more episodes to go. Guess it took us a while because The Falcon and the Winter Soldier was just bleh.

Fun fact: The picture captured Clint bidding his kids good-bye. I didn't realize what he said until I took a closer look at the picture. It triggered a memory I have of when my husband and I was still dating. My parents were super strict so my husband never had the pleasure of picking me up. I was always meeting him at restaurants, movie theatres, stores, etc. Every time we would depart, my husband's last words were always "Call me when you get home. I love you."

I guess a nice glass of wine to wind down the evening is much needed.

The nieces and nephew and I made it to Sugarloaf Mills for some shopping pleasure! Nothing gives me more joy than to be in a bookstore with the smell of fresh brewed coffee. Kloe and I had a blast!

No matter where we are, there's always time for some treasure hunt.

Every evening, the sky is an artwork from God. Even on a cloudy day, the sky is beautiful.

My husband saw this cup and picked it out for me. He thought I would fancy it and of course, it's true. It's the cutest little ornament.

90% of the time, you can almost be certain that we have papaya ingredients in our home. It's a staple in our menu. My husband is getting really good at making it too so there's always good papaya at the table.

A gift for the Ladies' Christmas party White Elephant. I love the wrapping paper!

I decided recently that we need to try the cash envelope system. I know the success rate is slim for us, but I'm still going to give it my best shot. Wish us luck!

Okay, bye.

:)