We’ve been spoiled by very sunny skies lately, but today promises to be cloudy all day long. Ah, well.
Decorating for the holidays is done, I think. I added a few more presents under the tree in Dove Cottage. Now I have to take pictures of everything, but the lack of light means today is not the day.
I’m finishing The Impossible Fortune this morning as I have to get it back to the library. Two books I had reserved have arrived, and I have some books to donate, so I’ll do all of that in one visit. Then a quick trip to the grocery store. Exciting, right?
By the way, if you’re a fan of Richard Osman’s Thursday Murder Club mysteries, this newest in the series does not disappoint. He is such a good writer.
Today is Dick Van Dyke’s 100th birthday! Happy Birthday, Dick!
Gosh, I don’t have a whole lot more to say this morning. We’re doing our best to protect the magic of the holidays here at the cottage. We’re staying away from the news and anything we cannot control. Sending out wishes for peace and the removal of you-know-who. In the meantime, it’s twinkling lights and Christmas music.
Stay safe.
Happy Saturday.
Your Christmas tree is beautiful. Nice day to stay inside and admire it after you go to the library. I’ve been reading the Thursday Murder Club books. So good. Enjoy your weekend. Hugs, Elaine
Thanks so much, Elaine.
Yes, that is a great series.
Stay safe.
I recently finished Louis Penny’s new one and it was very good but don’t read it right now if you are troubled by the crazy politics going on! It raises more worries about what our crazy president could do. Enjoy a peaceful weekend!
I won’t start it until the new year, Ellen. So no worries.
Stay safe.
your decorations are beautiful! “vintage by crystal” pieces are so charming and i might just have to treat myself to one. love the flat painted tree and fern-patterned wood piece behind your santa on a reindeer, too. would like to hear about them; please and thanks!
same self-care plan happening here. plus watching it snow. two more inches so far this morning. don’t like that it causes hardship for those who must be out there, but the snowflakes are beautiful, getting bigger and falling fast and it’s supposed to snow another four hours … i love that!!!
and i love dick van dyke, too. happy 100th to a national treasure, someone who has provided so much entertainment to the world, a man definitely in the right job.
happy, safe weekend to everyone.
kathy
I have no idea where the tree came from. Just found it in a bin. I found the wood piece several years ago. It used to be upstairs in the office.
Enjoy the snow, Kathy!
Stay safe.
thanks, claudia. good finds!
might try to make a little tree like that. just need someone to cut the wood. or tell me that i don’t need another hobby.
and i love watching the snow fall!
xo
kathy
xoxo
I love your “Crystal” character today!
Did you see the American Masters bio of Dick Van Dyke last night? It’s wonderful — now on PBS passport and their regular pbs.org site too. He’s one of my all-time favorites.
Have a wonderful weekend.
We thought it was on tonight – locally. Guess not. Ah well, we’ll see it another time. We were watching Waiting for Guffman and Best in Show on TCM.
Stay safe, Jeanie.
It’s nice to see your touches of the season. The tree, behind On Dasher, On Dancer intrigues me. What is it made out of?
We’ve both been stricken with something this week, that’s taken us out of commission. The tree still isn’t up…hopefully we’ll feel up to it this weekend.
Thanks for the heads up about The Thursday Murder Club…I must get caught up. Enjoy the magic this weekend! ;)
Spun cotton.
I’m so sorry you haven’t been feeling well, Donnamae. Feel better soon!
Thanks so much.
Stay safe.
I read that it is Dick Van Dykes 100th birthday, how wonderful. An amazing man. My tree is up but not decorated yet. I had a rough week with major fatigue but seem to be much better today. I’m like you and Don and avoiding news and just enjoying the simple joys of Christmas. My grandson Tiger has an Orchestra concert on Wed and I’m excited as it’s the first time I’ll get to see him live. He plays the Viola and is quite good. Christmas shopping is done but now to wrap gifts. Wishing you and Don a very relaxing weekend.
The same to you, Linda. Enjoy Tiger’s concert!
Stay safe.
Your tree and living room look lovely.
I was wondering if you know anything about the history of your cottage? Also, how is your neighbors son, who was injured doing ?
I wish you peace and I hope the outside “news” stays away,
Kaye
No, we really don’t know much about the history of the house. And our neighbors keep to themselves, the way most of us around here do. I do know he’s home and that recovery will take a long time.
Thanks so much, Kaye.
Stay safe.
Claudia, I just checked in to see your clever photo arrangement. Getting snow tonight first of the season, about to make some tea and honey, put on my flannels and fuzzy socks and climb into bed. The best part of my day today. Fragile handmade decorations have their own kind of magic, don’t they? Each one is like a time capsule wrapped in tissue, carrying memories of winters past. If we were neighbors, I would say we’d have the makings of a fine little tradition: showing off our quirky decorations. Keeping the lights twinkling against the snow and keeping the chaos outside the sanctuary you have created inside. We get to decide what enters and what stays out. All we can do is to build little rituals of resilience in our winter cocoon. So for me its tea, flannels, lights and snow. Take care, stay warm .
Beautifully said, Maria. Thank you so much.
Stay safe.
I love Dick Van Dyke! What is funny is everyone use to say my Dad reminded them of Dick Van Dyke! He was a great guy. Sounds like keeping away from the news is a great idea. We are watching the Hallmark Channel. Love seeing all the Christmas decorations! Stay warm and enjoy your wonderful cottage!
Thank you so much, Deb.
Stay safe.
I hope to read that series. It’s on my to-do list. I hope you have a merry Christmas.
Thank you, Leslie.
The same to you!
Stay safe.
Happy birthday to dick van dyke. Wow!
Our tree isn’t up yet. I still send oit cards. They’re not done. Christmas baking, you guessed it.. not done!
I’m not sure why I’m waiting, but I think I’ll be busy this week.
You have the cutest ornaments, like that little reindeer.
Thanks so much, Irene.
Stay safe.