It’s been practically a year since I’ve written anything on my blog. My good intentions for writing have remained intentions only. But since the new year is almost upon us, I thought my blog needed an update. Also, beauty surrounds us at Christmastime. I need to talk about that a little bit.
A pop of color in a frosty world.
Tonight, Wisconsin has planned to dump a pile of snow on us. About this time last year in one terrific storm we got at least 15 inches of snow. This time around the reports say we’ll experience a measly 9-10 inches. That should be enough for people to hole up inside – hopefully enjoying a cup of hot cocoa and a good book, or maybe a holiday movie. Some people might complain; even born and bred northerners grumble about snow and cold. But despite snow’s bad rap, I love a good winter storm. I take great pleasure in snow blanketing the landscape, muting the colors into soft grays and browns and whites and blending into the overcast sky. It turns the volume down on the world. Have you ever noticed that? Snow muffles sound. And in the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season, it’s nice to have the hush of falling snow surround you.
A blended horizon. Some say this is bleak. I say it’s BEAUTIFUL!
Look at those lovely ice crystals frosting the branches.
One of my favorite Christmas songs is A Marshmallow World. It’s not actually about Christmas at all; it’s just a bouncy song about snow. Some people prefer Dean Martin’s version, but I will always love Bing Crosby’s voice crooning
It’s a marshmallow world in the winter, when the snow comes to cover the ground. It’s the time for play, it’s a whipped cream day, I wait for it the whole year round.
Just listen to Bing sing about a marshmallow world and try not to get excited about snow. Who wouldn’t want to live in a whipped cream world? With friendly marshmallow clouds? And going on sugar dates with your sweetheart? The edible imagery is just so sweet (pun intended)!
It really is a Marshmallow World. Good enough to eat.
I’m also feeling a little bit like a marshmallow these days as I’m 26 weeks pregnant. I’m almost into my third trimester – and I’m starting to feel like it. But I love every time I feel the baby move or kick – a small reminder that there’s new life blossoming. What a blessing.
26 weeks and counting
This is Steve and my last Christmas as a childless couple. We are enjoying the moments of spontaneity that will disappear in about three months. But also looking forward to all the joys that a child will bring, which includes a new season of Christmases. Little ones bring excitement and wonder to Christmastime that grows ever more elusive as an adult.
I needed to include my favorite fat snowman ornament. How cute is he?
As for me tonight, I’m ready to snuggle down under a blanket, watch the snowfall, enjoy our first ever real-live Christmas tree, and read To Kill A Mockingbird.
Our first real Christmas Tree! With a charming crooked star!
May you find beauty and blessing this holiday season. Merry Christmas!
(Also a huge thanks to my friend Britt from Reverie Photography who graciously let me use her lovely winter images that she captured today.)
milk and honey 