Hello, friends, good morning!

How are you doing this mid-July? In my etsy shop I am well into my Christmas in July sale, with lots of items flying out to near and far (thank you!) but I’ve still got plenty to share! It’s been fun to get a bit in the Christmas spirit (such a wonderful time of year) in the heat of the summer. I’ve been really trying to get in the Christmas state of mind as our air conditioning in the main part of the house was out for 5 days (Nooooooo). Thank goodness it is back on and I am so thankful! I do love my old timey things, but always sign me up for air conditioning, especially in the middle of July in Oklahoma!

Today I thought I’d share with you some Christmasy art and photos to help you get in a festive mood as well! What I love most about the Advent and Christmas season is that its the one time of year when the community at large turns its focus to peace, joy and hope for the future. I love Christmas carols (yes, all year ’round!) , and hearing them when I’m out and about always makes me happy. Candlelight, mittens, hearty foods and time to think about those we love are also things that I so enjoy about the season. How about you?

Growing up, my mom always decorated all-out for Christmas, as did both my grandmothers. After Thanksgiving, it would be time to bring all the boxes of ornaments and decorations down from the attic, and I particularly loved going through the box of Christmas tree decorations. I’d unwrap them all carefully, inspecting each one, and decide which one was the prettiest. I honestly don’t remember which ornaments it was that I’d choose, I just remember the process and the enjoyment of seeing all the little things again that I’d forgotten about since the last Christmas. It’s still fun, isn’t it, to see beloved pieces that only come out once a year?

I still love the thrill of getting out all the holiday items that I set back for the Christmas season. From Tasha Tudor Advent calendars to Swedish Christmas ornaments to special things I’ve been given by friends and family. Some of those ornaments I loved as a child are now mine to display in my own home, bridging Christmases past and present.

And best of all, is that night before Christmas— filled with magic and anticipation as we await the joy of Christmas morning. I know I am very much looking forward to the coming Advent and Christmas season– it is my hope that we can once again be with friends and family and celebrate together with music, good food, love and hope for the future.

As Fra Giovanni wrote, and Tasha Tudor often quoted– “The gloom of the world is but a shadow, behind it, yet, within our reach is joy. Take Joy!”

Wishing you peace and joy this July and all year round–

H