Our traditional Christmas eve dinner was prepared by my talented husband. John loves nothing more than to cook and feed people resulting in the need for a serious after-dinner walk. What a treat to step out our front door and discover it had begun to snow! Seeing our little grandsons' excitement was priceless, a perfect weather report for Santa's arrival! My son, Michael and his wife Jenni, visiting from LA had their wish for snow, especially on Christmas Eve, come true. Our puppy, Bentley, couldn't get enough of romping in all the feathery white flakes falling around him. As I write, in the wee hours of Christmas Day, before more of our children come to visit, special holiday meals served, gifts exchanged, I enjoy the gift of solitude to reflect on and be thankful for the simple gifts I receive every day. My wish for all is to cherish these moments for years to come! Wishing you all the merriest, magical, Christmas!

Bentley has arrived!

Two weeks ago we were surprised with the gift of a labradoodle puppy from our children. Bentley has joined our family and life will never be the same. He's a bundle of energy, full of love and happiness. If his little wagging tail is an indication of his mood, he's quite a jolly fellow! While his schedule is demanding and takes precedence over anything I want to or have to do...I'm constantly reminded that his little life and well-being is dependent on me 100%. Bentley's love of the outdoors keeps me in touch with nature, allowing time to reflect on the quiet of an early December morning before the rest of our world awakes. Evening playtime provides opportunities to look up at the stars and appreciate the brilliance of the night sky. I hear the world through his puppy ears; a distant train whistle, the barking dog several houses down the road, a bird in the neighbor's tree, catch his attention as if he's hearing these sounds for the first time. This is my favorite time of year, not so much for the merriment and bright lights, the hustle and bustle of the holiday season but for the solitude that being in touch with nature affords. Seeing Bentley discover this world for the first time brings me much joy and contentment. I am so grateful for the gift of this little pup.

Recently recovering from a 24 hour virus, I decided it was a good idea to take an "Extra Day". Growing up in the early '60's, the "Extra Day" was a luxury afforded those of us with mom's who stayed home. I didn't enjoy being sick and away from my friends at school but staying home was a comforting, unhurried experience. The nature of the illness dictated what my mom would serve up for nourishment. The traditional jello, ginger ale and saltine crackers were a staple for intestinal bugs, followed by toast with jelly (never butter!). Mashed carrots and potatoes were great once an upset stomach calmed down. Sore throats and stuffy noses were treated with salt water gargling, chicken soup with dumplings and tea with lots of honey. If one had the misfortune of a "chest cold" (which I seemed to have an affinity for) there was the dreaded Vicks Vapo-Rub slathered on one's chest and covered with a warm towel. Believed to reduce congestion it was (and in some households still is) considered the treatment of choice for coughs and stuffy noses. Activities for recuperating included television for little patients willing to sit through endless episodes of "I Love Lucy", "The Little Rascals" and an array of cartoons. I for one, had no use for such entertainment, so listening to my transistor radio and coloring while sitting in bed was lovely. Surrounding myself with a collection of story books to peruse and dolls to play with was another favorite pastime. We ALWAYS wore our pajamas, no getting dressed when you are "sick in bed". The "Extra Day" occurred on the day you were probably fine to return to school. Our mother's bought that extra time so we could spend the day dressed in our regular clothes and moving about the house getting ready for our return to the real world. It served as good preparation both physically and mentally for heading back to school which was fine with me! I think back to those days and still relish the "Extra Day" when I take one and I feel my mom's knowing smile that I'm doing the right thing.

Last weekend, my daughter and I decided to try out the Chobani Bar in Soho, NYC. It was fantastic, with selections ranging from Cucumber and Olive Oil to Pistachio and Dark Chocolate and an amazing variety in between! A trip to Chobani will prove that choosing a yummy yogurt combination has never been more unique. There's definitely something for every yogurt lover here. Following a walk around the neighborhood we were ready for a late afternoon snack. We stopped at Kaffe 1668 on Greenwich St. We were both quite happy with the mozzarella/basil sandwich we split. My daughter's iced coffee was great and my hot green tea delightful. The atmosphere is relaxed and cozy. A great way to spend some quiet time on an autumn afternoon.

Another weekend is upon us, pumpkin and apple picking, readying the house for cooler nights, decorating for Halloween...its arrived. A knitting class at The Lion Brand Shop is on my calendar for tomorrow afternoon, and with that more projects to plan for long winter nights. Enjoy!

Don't forget to vote!

Wittches's Submission in Converse 3 Artists 1 Song - "Warrior" Remix Contest

Goodbye Summer, Hello Fall!

What a terrific summer with so many little trips and projects scattered throughout. We began our summer immediately traveling to South Carolina to celebrate my mother in law's 90th birthday! So much fun.

Another fun trip followed to Washington D.C., it was amazing seeing all the monuments and memorials. Each has a unique story to tell.

Back in NY, I took classes in amigurumi crochet making miniature animals...so cute! Golf lessons, walking, meeting up with friends rounded out the days until we left for LA.

Descanso gardens, The Museum of Contemporary Art(MOCA),Los Angeles County Museum of Art(LACMA), baco mercat Restaurant, hiking, eating lots of healthy foods and a wonderful 10 days with my west coast children...what a treat! Back home to NY again for our granddaughter's christening...such a sweet baby, and a lovely day.

We met up with our daughter in law, Jenni, on tour with Christina Perri and Jason Mraz. She and some band mates joined us for a barbecue at the beach. What better way to end the day then with a beautiful night and wonderful show at the Jones Beach Theatre.

Now its back to school, work and enjoying the glorious autumn days. We're planning our biscotti for Christmas, thinking about gifts, dinner parties and baking days! What's your favorite part of this time of year?

Please vote!

Happy Fall! This is my favorite time of year. Perhaps its the sounds of the crickets slowly fading away, the evening's hint of crispness or the squirrels mad frenzy harvesting their "finds". I love watching the geese gather and fly south from my top deck that overlooks the Long Island Sound.

I find it enticing to create a fall "to do" list encompassing indoor baking, knitting and all things meant for cozy days to outdoor get-the-garden-ready-for-winter projects. I've tucked my herbs that thrived outdoors in my summer garden into pots that now keep me company at work.

Contributing to my blog more frequently is a must on my fall list and introducing new topics, photography, recipes and projects a must. With that in mind, please see the link below.

Wittches's Submission in Converse 3 Artists 1 Song - "Warrior" Remix Contest

My son Michael, has put in countless hours getting his career as a music engineer off the ground. He's worked on several projects for many artists. Please listen and vote for his work at the link above.

Enjoy the golden days that lie ahead, the autumn air and changing light....