December 2024

Last week, my oldest daughter asked me for a Christmas list because, in her words, “You are so hard to buy for.”  I have to admit that I can see her point; there really isn’t much in the way of “stuff” that I either need or want. There is one thing however, that always tops my list  –  high quality bird seed to fill the feeders that are scattered throughout my yard.  

Each of my children has a fiercely competitive streak that seems to reach its absolute zenith  at Christmas time. They good-naturedly battle over who has the best decorated tree, the most beautifully wrapped gift, the tastiest appetizer at Christmas Eve dinner. This year they added outdoor decorations – specifically winter themed pots  –  to the competition. Since they all consider themselves to be the “winner,”  they decided they needed an impartial judge – so they chose me because, in their words, “I write about that stuff.”  While it’s true that I do periodically feature design aspects in these blogs, the truth is that I do not have one artistic bone in my body! What appears to be expertise in design is simply a recitation of what Jo Ann Prieto, Embassy’s seasonal color specialist, has taught me over the years.

The shopping season is in full swing here. Like so many of you, I have been immersed in finding perfect gift choices – mainly though, for the grandkids. I’ve spent hours upon hours combing through all sorts of catalogs and websites and stores trying to come up with gifts that they not only like, but will also spark their imagination, curiosity and creativity long past Christmas morning. More than once, I’ve wished I could find  lists of great ideas all in one place!