Tree Santa

It’s the little things in life that end up being the most meaningful to me. The wonder of a tree that has been decorated lovingly by hands old and young. The scent of an extinguished candle. The wafting aroma of burned incense on special occasions. The colorful glow of twinkling lights strung across branches of green. Ornaments kept through the years, sentimental memories of holidays past.

This little santa has been on every tree each year and the smile he gives to me reaches a place in my heart that I keep secret. May your upcoming holidays be spent with those you cherish and may you feel the warmth of the spirit and give of yourself. I believe when we give something no matter how small, the reward is in knowing we have the ability to share and that we choose to do so without expectation.

December The Twelfth Month

I always look back as much as I look forward during these thirty-one days. December the last month of the year, heralds a holiday promise, a little trepidation, a lot of shopping, adventurous baking, friendly and family gatherings, and for many of us, religious and winter traditions. Many of my friends are born under the astrological sign of  Sagittarius so there are birthdays to recognize, and the clock seems to be ticking down until Old Saint Nicholas takes his ride around the world on his sleigh accompanied by his eight tiny reindeer. It can be a mystical, joyous and fulfilling time. It can also bring on dark days for many who are faced with the dreary prospect of not a happy time, but of just trying to make ends meet, which means sad stress during these impending weeks.