For the Winter Solstice we try very hard to do something that centers around nature. This year we decided to take the kids to Longwood Garden in PA. We usually make the trip once a year but normally in warmer weather. The garden was done up beautifully for the holiday season. This is a photo taken not very far from the meadow. The size of the trees that grow here are awesome. As you can see all three of my children fit on a limb. The fountain show is a sight to see but to get the full effect you need to wait until the sun goes down. Then you can see the wonderful lighting that dances to the organ music. We also walked through the conservatory. It was also decorate with gigantic trees dressed in holiday decorations using living plants. The new children’s garden is nothing less than enchanting with its fountains that are guarded by mythical creatures and its wishing wells that mist rolls from. The spiral staircase holds many secrets. Throughout all of Longwood Gardens you have to really pay attention so as not to miss anything that has been so artistically and lovingly created. We always walk away with the desire to go home and create our own wonderland.
This is my fur baby. My children have dubbed her this. She is my little side kick and brings alot of joy to my life. She loves to go anywhere we are willing to let her as long as her family is with her. My children are all teenagers now and she fills that need for the pitter patter of little feet. She is non stop action when she is awake but prefers to curl up under the blankets between my husband and I. The moment i spotted her little half face through the bars of her kennel at the SPCA I was hooked. Soon she reeled in the rest of the family. Now we couldn’t imagine life without her.
We spent a very busy day shopping for the season. I have to say that it was a very fun filled day. The kids are at an age that a full day in busy stores is not as much of a chore. This is a picture of them in front of our solstice tree. We celebrate the change of each season. This year we may spend it mining for semi precious stones in Virginia. That is if I can get us a hotel room. We found this great place right outside of Richmond were you can spend the day digging for your own gems. It is called Morefield mines. It is like being on a treasure hunt. Great fun!!!
Last night I was lucky enough to get this shot of the moon. We purchased a new digital camera not to long ago and I have to say that it is impressive. Some of the pictures that I have been able to shoot I would never have even attempted with my old one. Nature is a passion of mine. My family and I hike the local parks and trails as often as we can. But some of the prettiest sights have been right in my back yard which is where this picture was taken. I love to take photos of places that I have been knowing that no one will ever have a shot exactly like mine for nature is ever changing. The seasons, the lighting, the weather is always changing. I guess the same is true with people too. I like to use the pictures in decorating my home. It is like taking a piece of our adventure back with us. Freezing a moment in time.
Another family Thanksgiving has come and gone. It almost seem that as one holiday is over the next on its way. I remember when I was little it took forever for them to get here. Now as an adult they are here and gone in the blink of an eye. In the hustle and bustle I sometimes wonder why I put myself through this. For me something always reminds me why. I have been blessed with a great family and equally great friends. This is a picture of my niece enjoying the turkey that I prepared. The look of relish on her face as she devours the leg makes all the work worth it. We had a house full of very satisfied people. There are more out there who could not make it home for the feast. You know who you are!! We all missed you guys and love you much. Maybe the next. But just know that I am thankful for each and every person who has, does and will touch my life.