Open Windows && Awesome Sunshine

It was so nice to take a little break from computer work earlier today to run a quick errand. There was a nice chill in the air ~ perfect for rolling down the windows and breathing in deep. I joyfully sang along with my cd as I drove along, with the sun shining in and breeze flowing through my pinned up hair. :) I also took notice of little flowers hiding from the cold under my front porch, amongst a variety of green leaves. Sigh.

Back at the computer, Pandora played while I worked. It really does make the work a little less intimidating. Especially when the music has a cheerful tone. Computer work is done for now. Now it's time to prepare dinner, light some candles, and listen to more Pandora. Here's a small selection for your listening ears.

Hello December

Aren't we all so cute? This second day of December welcomed us

with frosty windows and a lovely chill of 28 degrees. So grateful for

a cozy house with many blankets. I bundled up and went outside a

little early to start Tony's truck. I sprayed the windows down with

de-icer. That stuff - that magical stuff - amazes me every time.

Definitely beats standing out in the cold scraping the ice away.

Just a few spritz, and wa la! clear windows. Today also marks my

dad's birthday! I must say that I have the best dad ever! :)

Oh How Lovely

Super lovely things that would add much cheerfulness to my kitchen time.

Izmir Measuring Cups (1), Tea-And-Crumpets Apron (2), 

Tapestry Dishtowels (3), & Sliced Persimmon Dinnerware (4).  

I think the measuring cups are my favorite! :) 

Delish Bean Soup

Place 2 cups of beans in a bowl. Cover with water and let it soak overnight. In the morning, admire the rainbow of colors. Drain your beans and rinse them generously. Pour them into a crockpot. Add 4 cups of chicken broth, 1 can diced tomatoes, sliced carrots, diced onions, salt, pepper, garlic powder, fresh oregano, and whatever else your heart desires. Cook on low for about 8 hours. Your house will smell wonderful and you may have to sample the soup throughout the day. You know, just to make sure it's tasting alright. ;) This served 4 people perfectly. And it tastes marvelous with cheddar cheese biscuits. ENJOY!!   

Christmas Goals

Late Saturday evening, classical Christmas music filled the house as I wrapped our tree in lights and fingermade garland. My house is still in transition between the fall and winter decor, but this one little corner is all Christmas with more to be added. :) My ever growing goal list for this Christmas season:

Read "A Christmas Carol" * Gingerbread Cake, take two * Finish decorating our home * Read these daily advent devotionals with Tony * Gingerbread cookies with family * Homemade cranberry sauce * Make a coffee filter wreath * Find perfect gifts * Make some cinnamon applesauce ornaments * Lots of warm drinks * Reread this pamphlet from JR Miller * Listen to the sermon series "A Son Is Given" throughout the month * Play lots of Christmas music *