Hello, Monday.

Got this out a little late this weekend, and I’m writing from 30,000 feet as I fly to SF for a quick there and back, cheering on my Bills as they play on the Lions in the meantime.

Let’s Go Buffalo.

My trip meant that yesterday was crammed with all the usual weekend adult to-do: laundry, some meal prep, a good workout and catching up with my favorites.  An early bedtime meant that screen time was not in the cards.

We are a little more than a week out from Christmas, and I have a few more low key things to get. My fam and I really don’t do a big to-do with gifs, and I’m happy for it. My love language is quality time, and I’d rather do something fun with everyone than just accumulate more stuff. Though I do always love a new pair of PJ bottoms.

Anyhoo, I hope the season is treating you well and you are also treating yourself well. Remember to carve out some me-time…it’s really the gift that keeps giving. And as I used to have to remind my mom all the time, you can’t care for others if first you don’t care for yourself.

The week’s links, for your entertainment:

Hot debate- should you pay grandparents for babysitting? In Sweden, it’s the law. (Also, I’m currently reading The Nordic Theory of Everything – thanks Katie– and how much do I want to pick up and move to Finland?)

Heading to some holiday parties? Here’s how to turn on the charm.

A moment for Sri Lankan rich cake – and my recipe in case you’re interested! (Note- it’s SO good- not your ordinary fruit cake)

Some good news tonight– a modern-day take on the Polar Express.

Is it possible to make a Pillsbury cinnamon roll better?? It appears so!

Why do we need these things?

I mean, it’s funny in theory but…let’s not vandalize public art. But…googlie eyes was a pretty good move.

When Harry Met Sally is such a classic. But 35 years later, we still ask…can men and women be just friends?

How’s this for a Christmas story- Christmas on Ellis Island.

Hello, Sunday.

Hello, December!

Well, we made it through 2024 didn’t we? Just barely it seems though, doesn’t it. Anyway, let’s close out the year the best we can, taking joy in the little things, cozy blankets, flickering candles and togetherness with those whom we deem worthy.

Because life is too hard for anything less.

I’m in Florida for my annual Disney pilgrimage, shockingly trying to stay warm. Still, I’ll take this over a Florida December heat wave any day.

Here’s what I’ve been up to lately, and to what I look forward this month:

wishing: our country wasn’t so divided. 

hoping: we can figure it out.

thinking: of christmas lists

praying: for safe travels for all this season.

planning: goals for 2025.

dreaming: of a better world. season of hope, right?

traveling: to san francisco, for a hot second, in a few weeks.

wearing: these, all day, every day.

buying: a new car. boo.

reading: thursday murder club, book 2.

watching: brooklyn 99; will & harper; nobody wants this.  and obviously the christmas movies.

eating: at disney- so all the things. when i get home, all the cookies. 

drinking: hot chocolate, duh.  but make it gingerbread.

cuddling: with my Crawley, always.

Let’s finish 2024 out with a bang, shall we?

Hello, Sunday.

Well, this week was better than last, and I have worked to ensure that I have future joy in my life by putting up my Christmas decorations this week. Yes, it’s early but with Thanksgiving being so late this year and me being out of town for it, I wanted to ensure that I had more than a few weeks to enjoy the holiday merriment.

And let me tell you…oh, the joy the season brings.

I have no regrets. Maybe one- it’ll be even harder to drag me from the confines of my cozy abode.

I hope you are finding little ways to bring you joy. With the whole world being so large and messy, it has to start at home.

Let’s get to it. This week got me like…

Screw it, it’s Christmas now.

Related: the perfect Christmas getaway does exist.

Giant rats wearing mini vests? It’s not just for the sci-fi lovers.

Have you joined Bluesky yet? I mean, sigh, another one?  I haven’t been on Twitter for years, so I don’t feel compelled to jump on the latest social. However, if you’re thinking about it- here’s what you need to know.

ICYMI, there’s a new season of GBBO on and while I’m an avid watcher, I can’t say I know much about Prue. She’s winning in my book when she gives us the green light to take some shortcuts when creating our own showstoppers.

Exercise really does a body good. Let’s recommit to fitness!

I daydream about this weekly.

Um, what? The human body is a weird and wonderful thing.

Now that’s amazing.

ICYMI, this gingerbread bostock will get you in the season. Pro tip? Use leftover frangipane to fill crepes– like I did this morning.

Let’s have a good week, eh?