As I try to keep focused on the true meaning of this beautiful season, and not get too “wrapped” up in the pre-holiday rush, I treasure the traditions that make this my favorite time of the year (it helps that I actually like winter weather too – I know – I’m weird ?)
This past week my friend Sharon and I “rang and sang” for the Salvation Army – our 17th year!
A fun way to share the joy of the season through Christmas Carols, and to help a worthwhile charity.
Next came our annual cookie baking time. My mom and I have been doing this all my life and we’ve never missed a year.
Over the years Mike, my dad, our kids and grandkids have all joined in. This year great grandpa Bruce and the kids were on the decorating team.
Sommer made each cookie a work of art!
Trey tired out early with the pre-baking decorating, but he liked the frosting part,
Grandchildren are a great blessing! As are parents! I am so grateful my mom and dad are still a big part of my life. Dad is 89 and mom is 85 and they’re going strong. Praise the Lord!
Last Thursday was a bittersweet day for me. After teaching quilting at WCTC for 23 years, they have discontinued the adult enrichment classes and it was my last day. My dear students threw a party with delicious food, thoughtful gifts, lots of hugs and a few tears. This is an amazing group of women and I thank God for each one of them (and the few who couldn’t attend too)!
What made it a bit easier was knowing that I will begin teaching at Sew Much More in Waukesha, beginning in February. Where God closes a door, He opens a window. Thanks Wendy!
The Christmas concert at church was lovely, the presents are wrapped, and the kids are excited. I have so much to be thankful for, and having all of you continue to follow my blog is one of my blessings!
In the words of Tiny Tim: “God bless us everyone!”
Margit Kagerer says
Merry Christmas and a creative new year. And keep writing the blogs. Margit
Louise M Haddon says
Merry Christmas Chris and the very best to you in the New Year.
Jan Hartwig says
Merry Christmas Chris!
Cynthia Boyd says
WCTC’s loss is our gain at Sew Much More! Looking forward to enjoying some classes with you there!
Barbara Abplanalp says
Merry Christmas and I look forward to seeing you when I move back to Waukesha in February
Jan Mullarkey says
?Merry Christmas?
..I SEW love getting your newsletters?..
Iris says
Merry Christmas Chris. Its a blessing to know you and see your wonderful journey. What will you teach in Sew much more? and how exciting even if its sad that classes are cancelled at WCTC. hope your Christmas and New year is beyond blessed. HUGS iris
Nancy Pederson says
Christmas Blessings to you and your family, Chris. And a productive and creative 2020!!!!!?❤️?
Karen Moe says
Merry Christmas and have a wonderful trip to Japan next month!!
Vanessa M Stevens says
I enjoy reading your post. I too did and do still make the cut out cookies like my mom made. When I was young. Thank you for ringing for the salvation army that money that is collected helps the salvation army and also the community with many ways of helping these in need all year. I hope to take a classes from you. The true meaning of Christmas is Jesus and love. You and your family have a merry Christmas and Happy New Year. From vanessa stevens quilting buddy.
Dorothy Livernash says
Merry Christmas to you and your family. How blessed you are to be able to still share the holidays with your mom and dad.
Judy Funk says
First time on your blog, enjoyed it. So sad the adult enrichment class at WITC have been discontinued, but all tech colleges have done this. Congratulations on starting a new class at Sew Much More in Waukesha. A very Merry Christmas to you – your family & much success & happiness in the new year..
Annette Navarre says
A Blessed Christmas is wished for you as well. I enjoyed your Christ centered greeting! I know you will do well at Sew Much More. 2020 will be a new adventure!