drinking life through a fire hose

Good morning, friends!  As usual, we had a weekend that was full to bursting! 

On Friday, we spent the day running Christmas-y errands and got so much accomplished.  We even squeezed in a Panera lunch date by the fireplace (I think all restaurants should have fireplaces), which was a great break in the midst of a busy day. 

Then, we spent the rest of the weekend running from the Vintage Charlotte Holiday Market to a very special first birthday party to a leisurely lunch with friends to a Christmas concert. 

In between all that, we got to deliver meals and ice cream and holiday cheer to several friends who need things like meals and holiday cheer right now.  It is such a blessing to be able to be able to show love to these friends, all of whom have helped us out during times when we were barely holding it together. 

On Saturday night, we were able to relax at home for a bit and start decorating the tree.  We rescued some ornaments from my mom's garage that I have loved since I was a child and it was so much fun to hang them on our own tree this year.  I told Steve about how my very favorite one was always those two people sleeping snug in a nutshell. 

And my second favorite, of course, was these two people, sleeping in a cradle.  Is it any wonder that my favorite thing to do in the winter is cuddle up with Steve under a blanket?  I've always been a cuddler at heart. 

So today is gray and windy and I've got every light in the house on to cheer me while I work.  The washer and dryer are both running and I've got big plans for soup making later on.  I'm also feeling excited because I woke up to a happy surprise today- some of my items are being featured on one of my favorite blogs!  Mara and her husband, Danny, write at A Blog About Love and it is one of the most encouraging things to read.  I just love their story and their desire to help others find joy.  Be sure to click over to Mara's blog and check it out!