We made it, and I feel like this week absolutely flew by. I have one more project I’m trying to get done today, so it can be a relatively quiet week next week. I’m also looking forward to some time off the week after Christmas. I’m really going to try to unplug, not check email and just have some quiet time before the New Year. I can’t wait. Obviously, I’m counting down the days until I can see my family next week. It’s been more than a year since I’ve seen my parents and nearly two years since I’ve seen my extended family. It’s going to be great fun!
I’ve had some favorite moments and things this week!
Spuds
These dogs are such hot messes. They have made more appearances on my Zoom calls this week than necessary, and they are always right next to me. I love them so much! This Was Tex one night giving me some snuggles on the couch.
Speaking of Spuds, here they are by my Christmas tree. They kind of like it – at least I like to think they do. They have been pretty good with the presents – and have left them alone for the most part.
I received the most thoughtful gift this week. One of my friends drew this picture of Sawyer. I can’t believe how thoughtful it was. It looks just like my beautiful boy, and it’s a picture that I’ll treasure forever. It will always have a special place in my house.
Sometimes I still have moments that will hit me hard that he’s not here anymore. And this first Christmas without him is one of those times. Sawyer and I just had such a special bond, and his presence is deeply missed. People have told me that you will always have a special heart and soul dog – and Sawyer was mine. And so, these beautiful, thoughtful photos that people have taken time out of their day to do – are so meaningful. He was such a sweet soul.
See? The drawings look just like him!
Self-care
It’s the holidays, so I’ve been having a few extra adult beverages here and there. My skin is feeling a tad dehydrated, so I needed to refresh her. I picked up some Japanese face masks when I was in Japan, so I decided to try them out this week. They felt fabulous after a shower and right before bed.
Gearing up for 2022
I’m mentally gearing up for 2022. And for me, that means physically writing out some goals, plans and milestones. My 2022 Erin Condren Life Planner came in the mail this week, and I can feel the potential of the year ahead. I know some of ya’ll prefer digital planners, but I like the thrill of writing everything out. It helps me mentally prepare for each next step.
Christmas Cards
I finally got my Christmas cards out in the mail. Some addressed needed to be tracked down and added to my online address book. If I’m being honest, I was putting that off. But, I knew they needed to go out this week – so they could actually arrive in my friend’s mailboxes before Christmas. I always like to add a cute piece of flair to my cards, and this year, I used some Washi tape to spice things up a bit.
Holiday snacks
My work schedule has been wild this week. I’ve been in meeting after meeting. Project after project. So, lunch has been happening when it can – and as quickly as it can. I am a sucker for a seasonal snack, and I love a good pork rind. Southern Recipe is one of my favorite brands, so when I saw they came out with a seasonal flavor, you know I snagged a bag. These are delicious. They have a hint of sweet, but they aren’t overwhelming. I’m going to grab several more bags at the store this weekend!
In case you missed it, I shared my holiday house tour on the blog yesterday. My house at Christmas is one of the best things. I don’t ever want to leave.
I also shared some of my favorite holiday baking recipes this week.
I hope that whatever you have planned this weekend, that you find some time to enjoy the holidays at home. I really want to stay in on Sunday and relax, read a book, watch a Christmas movie….. We’ve got a holiday party on Saturday night, a holiday happy hour this evening – and our neighborhood has their holiday get together tonight.
Enjoy your weekend – I’ll be back next week sharing some of my favorite Christmas traditions!
