The Sweetest Joy

It is evening here in Salem, Oregon. The house is filled with candlelight as Christmas carols play softly in the background. I am here on the computer, my family is gathered inches away playing a board game.

Shouts of laughter or consternation burst forth as each is either successful or not in their gaming pursuits. One of our three cats bats playfully at a Christmas stocking hanging from our loft railings, the other two nap contentedly. We have shared several pizzas, eaten pretzels and chips, apples and oranges, candies and cookies. It feels lovely and I am filled with gratitudes.

Today, my daughter baked me some birthday cupcakes for tomorrow and tried her version of Rachael Ray's 5 Minute Fudge. Some dear friends stopped by unexpectedly for a nice, long visit and I happily finished the last of the gift wrapping. It was a day of sweet things, of friendship, of the comforts of heart and home, family and fun.

As my Kathy Schmitz Christmas fabric for Moda proclaims "Follow Your Heart", "The Sweetest Joy", and Peace Abides". That is how it feels here in Salem, the city of Peace, tonight. I wish you all the sweetest joys, the most heartfelt of blessings, and the hope that peace fill your hearts and homes during this holiday season.