Lessons Learned and Things Remembered

It's been an interesting year. As I reflect on 2015, these thoughts come to mind.

The only person that you can really change is yourself.

Things don't always turn out like you planned, or the way you think they should, but they mostly turn out like they are supposed to.

When you focus on what you want, everything else falls into place.

There's a lot of beauty and joy in ordinary things.

Some fools aren't worth the breath needed to cuss them out.

There are people out there who pretend to be nice, honest and compassionate, but ultimately their words and actions prove otherwise.

Surround yourself with the things you love; discard the rest.

It's ok to say no to unnecessary crazy.

Choosing to be happy is good for your health.

Life is better when you're laughing.

In the end, only three things matter:

how much you loved,

how gently you lived, and

how gracefully you let go

of things not meant for you.

--Buddha

Merry Christmas!

Enjoy The little Things

Christmas and the end of the year can be stressful.  There's shopping, wrapping, decorating, and cooking to be done.  Scheduling time with friends and family and meeting other obligations usually makes the holidays more hectic.  

Here's a hint that might help ease your stress.  

Just STOP.  

Now think about what you really love most about Christmas.  Is it cookie baking, or decorating your home, or giving your time?  Visiting with friends?  A quiet evening with your love?  Watching movies in your PJ's? 

Do THAT.  

Whatever makes you smile is what should be pushed to the top of your to do list.  Let the other stuff slide, or get it done quickly and out of the way.  Say no thanks to crowded stores, boring events or people that you don't care to be around.  Say yes to laughter, love, and simple pleasures. 

These little things that you love most are the memories you will always cherish.  Do more of them.  
 

Christmas Cheer

I don't put up a huge Christmas tree or completely redecorate for the holidays. I do add a few decorations to each room to make the season brighter. 

My newest addition for our bedroom is a quilted wreath wall hanging and cute pillows featuring a patchwork ornament and a Santa hat. I didn't have a pattern, so I used EQ7 to lay out the designs. I love how the fabrics add a bright modern touch to the room. The black and white swirled quilt is the back of one I already made.  

Make your space merry with a few well placed items that will make you smile. It doesn't have to be perfect, just festive.  

Twinkling lights around the back door or a special ornament hanging on a cabinet knob give just the right touch of holiday spirit. 

Tiny lightweight ornaments on my Norfolk Island pine make a perfect little Charlie Brown Christmas tree. 

A snowman plate on my kitchen counter adds a simple touch of holiday cheer, especially with those just baked chocolate chip cookies.  

Enjoy the season and have a wonderful, relaxing December.