Views of Sequim, the Olympic Peninsula. . .and beyond
I always try to reflect on the passing year. And I always try to count my blessings. This year I’m very grateful for having the opportunity to post on the Sequim Daily Photo, for the other blogger’s I’ve “met” and whose work I admire, and for the people near and far who visit and who comment here. Thank you, one and all! May you have a joyous and blessed new year!
May you have a day filled with love, warmth, and meaning, whatever your faith.
I read recently that local donations to Toys for Tots are down on the Olympic Peninsula this year, and requests for toys are up at least 25% over last year. And yesterday I heard that they are down nationwide. This friendly bear that I donated didn’t have much company in that big, hopeful box. I hope you’ll donate if you can.
Do you have causes or charities that you donate to? Have you had to cut back on giving?
Our friends Gene and Miriam brightened our day yesterday when they showed up at our front door with this treat — homemade sticky buns. Sticky, gooey, and especially delicious with tea or coffee. I was on the phone — yet again — with tech support to reestablish our Internet connection. Otherwise I would have included these fine bakers in the picture.
Is there anything you especially like with your coffee or tea?
The first year our beloved dog Nyla was part of the family she had no gifts. Family gathered around, tearing into gift wrap, oohing and aahing over presents. As the wrap and ribbon settled and the excitement quieted, we turned to see Nyla lying with her head nestled between her front paws. The only word for the sad eyed expression on her face was “forlorn.”
This is Chord above. He is a cheerful soul, though here he’s saying, “Come on, not this hat again!” You should see the expression on his face when we unwrap a toy for him at Christmas.
Do you have companion animals in your life? If so, do they get presents when your human family exchanges gifts?
This is the time of year when many of us roll out things that give us warm fuzzy feelings. Or a seasonal goodie. And, of course, as Tevya sings in “Fiddler on the Roof,” there’s Tradition.
I realized as I bought a supply of candy canes recently that these are one of the treats that brighten this time of year for me. It’s a cheap thrill, probably started as I snatched them off a Christmas tree.
Eggnog lattes are another seasonal treat. And I like to acknowledge Solstice, the first day of winter, because it marks the day when the sun will soon begin its return to longer days.
What about you? Is there something you really love at this time of year? Do you celebrate Christmas? Hanukkah? Some other holiday?
May your day be filled with much gratitude, and much for which you can be grateful.