feeling:: a sorting and a settling, I'm slowly learning to embrace this season; nature's perfect pattern of quiet, stillness, introspection, hibernation, and deep rest. Leaning into and coming to appreciate what winter has to give and teach me. Intrigued with the idea of "hygge" (recently finished reading The Cozy Life: Rediscover the Joy of Simple Things Through the Danish Concept of Hygge (Edberg), I've recently come up with a plan and list of ideas to make this winter a happier and cozier one. There are times, though, when it's hard not to slip into meloncholy ("What now??") or those dreaded and dreary doldrums, especially with the lack of sunshine, blue sky, and warmth. 

thanking:: that our hero Keith was able to repair yesterday's broken water pipe. That it wasn't worse than it was.

longing:: I really am missing my morning runs and walks, I loath the treadmill.

viewing:: While You Were Sleeping was darling. Can't believe I missed that one until now.

reading:: I've decided that I want to focus much of my attention on the classics this year. That timeless literature, both novels and poetry, that I didn't get to in own education/reading, as well as those that we missed during the homeschooling years. Trying to be on the lookout when I visit the local thrift store for new titles/copies I don't already have in our home library. (I've scored a few good ones, so far.) Keith gifted me a beautiful copy of some Louisa May Alcott that I hadn't yet read, including Eight Cousins and Rose in Bloom which I'm currently reading. He also gave me a copy of Alessandro Manzoni's The Betrothed. Already in 265 pages of the 719, and not sure if I can hold out 'til the end. A lovely collection/commentary of Robert Frost's poetry was happily received last night from my dear friend, and I'm very much enjoying these. Excited for all that's in store this year.

cooking:: I've had fun trying out some recipes from of another Christmas book I was given: The Superfun Times Vegan Holiday Cookbook (Moskowitz). Already, I've made some vegan cheezy sauce to top my pizza, potato latkes (a December/Hanukkah tradition for our family.), challah loaves (pictured above. Interesting take on this bread normally made with eggs and milk.), some Buffalo Caulifower "wings" on New Year's Eve, and a delicious pistachio lentil biryani (Persian inspired rice dish).  Each yum-o.

eating:: just now, a slice of Jane's scrumptious (GF) banana bread. We sure are eating GOOD with her around! (They'll depart for Virginia next Monday.)

enjoying:: time with the kids home these last few weeks, especially those one-on-one times and talks we've shared. Eliza and I had fun shopping for her first-ever oil painting supplies last week, as well as chowing down on the best Ban Minh sandwiches. Enjoying seeing them having their own special times with each other, too. 

creating:: With the birthday gift cards/money I received from my kids + an awesome 40% discount coupon, I was able to purchase a new easel for my little art studio. It was needed as Eliza decided it was time to take hers (the one I'd been using) back to the dorms. I'm sure grateful to have this new one for its size and stability. I spent a couple hours at it on Friday, but the resulting drawing was only fit for the trash. "It's all practice though, and not precious,"  I need to keep reminding myself. I'll slowly get back into gear one of these days... hopefully soon!.