Author: Cynthia

Tolerations

by Cynthia, posted in Taking Care of Business

One of the most efficient “tools” I learned while making my way through coaching school was the act of dealing with Tolerations.  Admit it. There are some things that we just “put up with.” Most of the time those things are minute – they would not take much effort if we would just take the time to deal with them. Yet, we prefer to let them sit while we do other things that are more interesting, more enjoyable, or that we consider more pressing.

The challenge with Tolerations is that the longer we ignore them, the worse they become. Mary Ann once gave me a magnet that simply states “A year from now, what will you wish you had done today?”  While the probable thought behind this statement is goal setting, I interpret it as dealing with the little things, too.

Tolerations can be anything that sits in the back of your mind. It may be a stack of papers on your desk, a letter that needs to be written, a closet that needs to have clothes weeded out, a plant with dying leaves, a picture waiting to be hung, a phone call yet to be made, a spot on the carpet, a ….

You get the idea.

Take a moment to think about a few things that silently urge you to attend to them. You know you have some! What are they?  And how do you move forward? Let me share a few of my strategies.

Make a game of it. Do you remember the 1950s television show “Beat the Clock?” Contestants were challenged to complete a task within a specified time frame to win prizes. The show actually began as a radio show in 1948 and was called Time’s A-Wastin’.  Isn’t that what we are doing by procrastinating? Estimate the amount of time it will take to complete the task at hand; figure out some kind of reward for yourself if you complete the task within your given time; and begin. You may find challenging yourself to compete with the clock is a fun way to deal with your Toleration.

Solicit help. Sometimes it is more fun to work alongside a friend or family member. Talk to someone about what you need to accomplish. Ask the person if s/he has a task that s/he is putting off. Agree to help each other complete the respective tasks. In this way you are somewhat holding each other accountable while enjoying each other’s company AND completing your tasks.

List it. Personally, I am a list maker. Yep!  Sometimes I enjoy checking things off my list so much, that I will add the task to my list if it doesn’t appear there, just so I can check it off! Crazy, I know. But often when I tell people I do this, they nod and admit they do it too! Check.

Deadlines – real or created. Nothing is more motivating for me to deal with things around the house than when I am hosting a dinner or event. Sometimes things must be completed before a certain date (taxes, for instance. Ugh). At other times you may just give yourself a deadline – get the car serviced before winter kicks in; or vacuum the baseboards before the pest control people come to spray.

Given these suggestions, you may have other strategies for motivating yourself to deal with those things that are eating at you. Regardless of the method you use, I would bet completing those tasks and eliminating your tolerations will give you a feeling of accomplishment and relief. Now, I have to go deal with a few things …

A Volunteering Spirit; a Hand Up

by Cynthia, posted in Lifestyle

My parents instilled in me the value of volunteering. Although they never really talked about the act of volunteerism nor commented on why they did it, they were always involved in some event. Mom worked frequently at her church. She donated time to the Red Cross, St. Jude’s fund raisers, her local Chamber of Commerce, and the backpack food program. Daddy was always building or making things, hauling supplies, donating and serving food, and so on.  They taught by example.

One of the most impactful actions I will never forget was the year my parents’ Sunday school class were to adopt a family at Thanksgiving … or was it for Christmas? Mom and I (at a young age) visited the mother of the family at her home. The home was very small. The lady offered us coffee and mom accepted. As we watched her from our seats in her kitchen, she took the cups from the cupboard and began washing them, prior to pouring our drinks. Later mom said she did that to show us she was clean, just poor. I asked why some people have to be poor, some rich, and others – as us – just somewhere in between. Mom said it was because the poor had not always had the same opportunities as the more fortunate.

In America, that didn’t make sense to me. Everyone should have the same opportunities, I pondered. Mom thought about it too.  The next Sunday she proposed to her Sunday school class that instead of adopting the family for the holiday, they should adopt the family for a year. They needed to get to know the family and their needs, wants, and desires.  Then, mom met again with the lady. Mom asked if she could iron. The lady said she could, but her iron was not very fancy.

Mom’s class purchased the lady an ironing board and a nice iron, some distilled water, and spray starch. Mom delivered the equipment, along with a stack of clothing to iron. The lady did a beautiful job and was paid per piece, as was the custom in those days.  She asked if she could take on more. The lady was so excited to have the extra money she enthusiastically said “yes!”

Over time, this lady made so much money ironing that she was able to buy a new car and a house. She and mom became friends. Whenever her family needed something, she would call mom and ask what she could do to obtain it. Sometimes her husband was able to work for items; sometimes they paid the cost price; and at times they items were simply donations.

The story was so inspiring to me as a young person that I learned the importance of offering a hand up. People want to maintain their dignity while needing help. Isn’t that why were are all on this earth – to be a good neighbor?  Let us remember the joy we receive when helping others, especially when we can help them with a hand up.

Monsters in Your Closet

by Cynthia, posted in Friends and Family

Last October, my sister invited me to spend the day delving into the Monsters in my Closet at her small, local church.  The conference was designed and presented by the women’s group of which she is a member. I was impressed to witness the camaraderie of women spanning young to mature and the way each and every lady in attendance supported and interacted with the others. This is a testament to the caring spirit of their character. The entire day (and the day before while setting up and decorating) demonstrated that women can and do support each other surrounding a common goal.

One of the organizers carried the theme through her creative and vibrant decorations, pulling together the colorful cute monsters from table decorations to wall décor, to serving table and beyond. My sister’s paper clip ornaments were perfect favors, and one lady’s ice breaker gave us an opportunity to “meet and greet” a variety of participants, setting the stage for an interactive retreat.

The chairwoman’s overall retreat leadership was evidenced in both her comments and the consistency of speakers and their handouts. Planning and executing such an event are tasks not for the faint of heart. Well done!

Each presenter gave us food for thought –on Pride, on Anger, on Selfishness, and on Jealousy. The presentations were informative, interesting, and fun. Another lady energized the group with her after-lunch game, offering an opportunity to re-engage minds and bodies for the afternoon.

They chose a charity to support – Refuge for Women – whose director served as a keynote speaker. Her talk was eye-opening and the support of the organization in bringing items needed and financial support was admirable.  I found it fascinating to learn of an organization that shepherds lost souls back to mainstream life, if such an opportunity truly exists for victims of sex trafficking. So sad to have these types of monsters in closets.  I was saddened to learn of the slavery that exists in 2024 and that family members are most of the perpetrators. The speaker gave us an awareness – a wakeup call, if you will.

To lighten spirits after the heartbreaking stories, a craft provided participants with a creative, hands-on outlet to carry us through the afternoon. The woman coordinating the craft had components already gathered making the exercise efficient and satisfying.

Discussion group leaders encouraged deep reflection on the ideas from earlier in the day. And the food! Oh my, these ladies were wonderful cooks and bakers! Everything was (or looked) delicious!

All-in-all the ladies – individually and collectively made an impact on everyone who attended.  I congratulate them on a successful event.  Conferences are not easy to pull off. A lot of planning before execution is required, as is strong and trustworthy leadership.

At our age we can lead, to mentor, and/or to participate in meetings and conferences. Hopefully, we will be reminded of the time and effort required by the planners and speakers and remember to compliment and thank them for a job well done.

These Are a Few of Our Favorite Things (2025 edition – part 2)

by Cynthia, posted in Lifestyle, Reviews

Last Thursday, Mary Ann shared some of her favorite products. Today, Cynthia is sharing some of hers.

Gel Pens – Not just any gel pens.  My favorites are Jotter gel pens. Usually sold separately, Jotter pens have a rubber-like soft touch barrel that is easy to hold and doesn’t slip. The barrel color matches the fine point ink color so there is never a question when reaching for a writing utensil. These pens are well worth the price as they write smoothly. And let’s face it, colored ink makes us happy!

For an extra fine point writing, I reach for the Le Pen which as with Jotter pens, sports a barrel color that matches the ink color. Le Pens are very thin and “slick” so for me, with mild arthritis, they are a bit hard to hold for long periods of writing.

Chic Wrap – Game changer! If you ever watch cooking shows you will see Chic Wrap in use. These are brilliant little cardboard dispensers designed for plastic wrap, foil, and parchment paper. They come in a couple of sizes. What’s so great, you ask?  Using the dispenser and built-in cutter is a no mess, no fuss way to cover dishes, line baking sheets, etc. I buy mine online at chicwrap.com; however, I am beginning to see them in upscale kitchen stores. The high-quality refills are available, but you can use the rolls you have been buying at your local stores.

Keurig – Okay. I know you are thinking this is a little old school. Yet, Keurig is the way to go unless you are die-hard coffee drinker. Why? Because everyone wants something a little different. I auto ship from the company to ensure I don’t run out of the flavors I use most often. My beverage bar has a drawer full of various teas and another drawer full of various coffees. As the weather cools, I add three types of hot chocolate K-cups. My pantry has an entire shelf devoted to open boxes of items so refilling the bar drawers is easy. When friends and family show up, they know to help themselves to whatever drink they fancy.  Some even go for cold drinks such as Snapple or sweet iced tea. No more pots of regular, decaf, and hot water lined up. Each person simply picks his or her favorite.

Chukar Cherries – Mary Ann actually got me started with Chukar Cherries out of Washington. They are expensive, but the health benefits (so I am told) make the cost worth the expenditure. For fun you can order chocolate covered cherries, but for me I lean towards to cherry and nut combinations.  The energy packs are individually wrapped so I can throw one or two in my purse or bag and take them with me. If I need a quick pick-me-up I have a healthy snack at hand. Of course you can purchase tins in a variety of combinations and gift items are always available. Dried cherries seemingly have antioxidant properties and nuts are full of protein, so these no-sugar added bites are a great go to. You can order these at chukar.com .

Ecos Plant Powered Laundry Sheets – No more challenges with lifting heavy containers of laundry soap. No more worries about spilling. Just grab a sheet, throw it in the washing machine, start the load and know your clothes are getting as clean as they can. The cardboard box the sheets come in is recyclable with your paper. My clothes seem brighter with much less effort and I feel good about helping out the planet.

doTerra – For people who enjoy trying alternative methods before popping pills, this essential oil company may have the answer for you. I especially love the Breathe products. I keep the Breathe drops in my car and in a candy dish in the kitchen. At the first sign of a scratchy throat, stuffy nose, or cough, we just pop one of these lozenges in our mouths, knowing that it is soothing without harsh chemicals. And the Breathe roller ball delivers the blend wherever you like to use it will no measuring and no spills. Having arthritis I also use the Deep Blue rub on my wrist, neck, and back when discomfort arises. Finally, I keep a spray bottle on hand (pardon the pun) of OnGuard Sanitizing Mist. The bottles are in most rooms in my home and in my car for a quick pump and a huge peace of mind.

Mary Ann – Okay. Maybe I am cheating a little here. Mary Ann isn’t a product, but she is one of my favorite “things.” Mary Ann inspires me to be a better person. She is my biggest cheerleader. Mary Ann is creative and caring, always thinking of ways to make others’ lives richer. So here’s to our favorite things … and to my co-blogger, Mary Ann!

So there you have it! Twelve products we enjoy using. And who knows? Maybe this blog will become an annual event.  It is always fun to discover new and interesting products, and it is fun to share them with you.  Give some of them a try!  

These Are a Few of Our Favorite Things – 2025 edition

by Cynthia, posted in Lifestyle, Reviews

Every year Oprah Winfrey launches her list of Favorite Things.  All wonderful, but they can be a bit pricey. If you are a billionaire, it really doesn’t matter what it costs, does it?  My friend, Susie, for many years at Christmas would share a list of her favorite 12 things that she had discovered during the past year. It was fun to see what new salad dressing she had found and on and on.  I looked forward to seeing her list each year, and it was disappointing when she stopped.  So, this year for the New Year, Cynthia and Mary Ann are going to share some of their favorite things in a joint blog.

Mary Ann’s Favorite Things

Sabon Rich Foot Cream – If you ever get a chance to walk into a Sabon store, you will find their iconic vanilla, patchouli, and lavender signature fragrance surround you. It is unforgettable!  Sabon is a French company (originally Israeli} and has four stores in NYC – that is where I discovered their luscious products.  All the lotions are divine, and my all-time favorite is their foot cream.  It smells wonderful, it is so silky as you apply it, and I haven’t had a callus since I began using it. All their products are online – us.sabon.com.  It is a bit pricey, but they run sales all the time.  That is when I stock up on the Rich Foot Cream.  Their products make great gifts for a special person.  I gave my daughter an advent calendar from them that was full of samples to try each day.  You can also get the products at Ulta.

Hinza Swedish Totes – I discovered these at a Scandinavian Festival and have been in love with them ever since.  They are made of eco-friendly plastic and have a multitude of uses – grocery baskets, craft storage, and you can carry ice and drinks in them – they are that sturdy!  I have four large totes in a variety of colors that I use to carry my school materials for the classes I teach, and a small one as my upstairs-downstairs tote to carry around my daily necessities.  Large totes run around $60.00, and the small totes are $42.00 – a bit pricey but remember you will only buy them once.  You can find them at hinza.com and on Amazon, but there are many vendors listed online. 

Walker Bags – I found these durable plastic mesh bags and cases at CO Bigelow’s Apothecary in NYC (fun store to visit).  The cases come in a rainbow of colors and variety of sizes.  I use them everywhere, and they are my go-to bags for travel.  With all the colors, I can color code their uses and find them quickly in my suitcase.  Blue bags for toiletries, orange case for first aid supplies, and red bags for my upstairs-downstairs tote. The Walker website, walkerbag.com, has everything you could possibly need. I have never had the mesh or a zipper fail.  The price is worth it!

Ganz Charms – This company makes tiny treasures that highlight a variety of events and holidays.  I have a thing for miniatures, so I buy these to put on my desk and give them as gifts. I often gave them to my teachers for inspiration.  Each little treasure comes with a card that explains what the item represents. It could be a little lighthouse, a miniature blue bird for happiness, a prayer box, or a tiny bucket list that can be carried in your pocket or in your purse.  All of them are under $10.  They are cute and meaningful.  Many gift shops or bookstores carry them, or you can go to the website, ganz.com, which has a large selection.    

Acropodia Boots – I have been wearing Acropodia shoes from Portugal for years.  I found them in a travel products catalog.  They are comfortable (soft uppers for your toes), supportive, and last forever. Then I found their boots.  L19 is the style I really like. They come in a wide range of colors and textures.  They fit like gloves, have excellent arch support, and fit snuggly around the ankles.  They are made of vegan leather, so they clean up easily and are waterproof.  I always get compliments on them – maybe people are surprised that an old lady can have cool boots!   You can get them at their website, acropedicousa.com, on Amazon, or at magellans.com.  They are pricey, nearly $150.  I look at them as an investment for my feet. 

Holiday Jam – This discovery came in a random catalog from American Spoon during the Christmas season a few years ago.  I ordered the Holiday Jam for me, and Christmas Cherries filling for my brother as a Christmas present. The website, spoon.com, has all kinds of jellies and jams.  They have wonderful recipes to make with their products.  The Holiday Jam and Brie Pull-Apart Bread is scrumptious. Holiday Jam is a seasonal product, and I stock up to use throughout the year. Bon Appetite!

These are a few of my favorite things. On the next post, you will read about some of Cynthia’s favorites.

My Favorite New Year’s Eve

by Cynthia, posted in Lifestyle

Okay. I admit it. I am a nerd. I am an introvert. I enjoy my own company. Don’t get me wrong. I like people. I like being with people. I also like holidays and if you have been reading all year, you know I like a good theme party. But the one thing I don’t really care about is the too loud, crowded, drunken New Year’s Eve celebrations to which so many people do look forward.

Maybe this perspective began 25 years ago when I was single and had my first grandbaby (who is now 6’4”!) and I volunteered to keep him so my daughter and her husband could have a proper date night celebration. Or maybe that was an excuse. Regardless, I enjoy a quiet evening at home.

New Year’s Eve is a time of reflection. I revel in my thoughts as another year winds down and the possibility presents itself to begin anew. I realize the timing is somewhat arbitrary. Maybe I could have the same sense of completion and renewal another time – for instance, a birthday.  But there is just something peaceful about curling up on a cool winter evening with a cup of fragrant hot tea, sitting in comfy loungers with a blankie over my body and simply relaxing.

New Year’s Eve is the perfect time to look over the passing year’s goals and task lists to celebrate the accomplishments – large and small. I perpend the whys of those items left undone and revel in the satisfaction of completing the others. Looking over the list is a fascinating reminder of what was important a year ago compared to current priorities. It is humbling to see how far – or not – I have come as a person and to think about others I may have touched along the way.

Upon reflection I turn the page to the new year with renewed determination. I cogitate the direction I want my life to follow in the coming year and the milestones to achieve that vision. Knowing that much of my life is directed by me and my actions, I set intentions, define goals, and list tasks that seem perfect on this night for achieving my dreams for the new year.

While in most years when I have experienced the rarity of time alone, I realize goals are modified, intentions are solidified, tasks are worked (or not). I develop a thoughtful plan on which to build in the next 365 days. I speak of goals rather than resolutions. New Year’s resolutions conjur a negative connotation of unfulfilled dreams. Developing goals gives me an opportunity to stretch myself. Having an evening dedicated to being alone with my thoughts sets the stage for a healthy and productive year to come.

You may have a different perspective of how to spend New Year’s Eve. I trust you will determine what best serves you to usher Father Time out and welcome the New Year’s baby in. Please celebrate in a way that best serves your soul.

Now as 2024 comes to a close, Mary Ann and I wish you and yours Peace, Love, and Light. And a wonderful 2025.

Brain Works

by Cynthia, posted in Uncategorized

As we enter our retirement years, many of us are dealing with aches and pains. To counter, we begin physical therapy, mild exercise, and general movement. Movement keeps our joints supple and activates endorphins to keep spirits light.  We are encouraged to socialize, eat a healthy diet, and get plenty of sleep. The one thing we often forget – or at least slack off – is continuing to challenge our brains.

Suggestions abound when it comes to maintaining a healthy brain in retirement. Strategies may include activities such as puzzles, brain games, and brain teasers.  Reading books, magazines, news feeds and newspapers are typical choices. Engaging in creative endeavors, hobbies, and learning new skills such as playing an instrument or painting may entice some.

Recently one of my girlfriends mentioned she is “reading maps.” The ability to follow a road map is becoming a lost art in and of itself with the advent of GPS systems that tell us when and where to turn, the distance we are going, and how long it should take to get “there.” Delving into her map exercise, I learned that what she is really doing is learning about countries.

Karen purchased a large world map book.  Each week, she opens the book at random pages and begins studying the country she finds there. Since she is in an atlas, she first looks for the capitol city. She finds the terrain, population and other information provided.  Then she begins to research that country.  She learns about their commerce, industry, and agriculture. She reads about their major religions, politics, and health care systems. She finds interesting facts and figures regarding demographics. She delights in determining as much as she can about the country of the week. In effect, she travels to the country without leaving her home. Her exploration has delighted her.

Yet, Karen takes it a step further. Not only does she read about the country, but she also compiles notes on the information she finds. She compares one country to the next, especially when considering bordering countries.

I love this creative way of learning about differing countries and cultures. As a foodie, I would then develop a meal or a gathering with the selected country as a theme. When inviting guests, I would challenge them to bring one little-known fact about the themed country. This would serve as an interesting conversation starter. If people have traveled to the country de jour, they may bring pictures or artifacts to use as table decorations.

I like road trips, so Karen’s idea inspired me to consider studying USA states or cities. Of course, one could use this model to study anything. When in conversation, many of us nod and move on. But why not jot a note to learn more about the topic? Studying a topic of interest will heighten our awareness and maybe help reconsider our perspective, all while expanding our brain power, enriching our lives along the way.

We are retired. That doesn’t mean we stop learning and growing. Virtual travel is one of many ways to keep our brains active. And it gives us something to talk about and helps keep us interesting!

Giving Spirit: Charitable Donations

by Cynthia, posted in Taking Care of Business

Why do people make charitable contributions in December?  To lessen the tax burden, the time of year makes no difference. If your cash donations are significant enough to count as an income tax deduction, they are reported for the year, thus January through December.  Still, Nonprofit Source reports that one-third of all cash contributions to non-profit organizations are received in December. Ten percent of all giving comes in the last three days of the year. According to Bloomerang, nearly half of not-for-profit revenue arrives from October through December.

One reason people wait may be due to a heightened awareness of need as the days become shorter (at least in terms of daylight) and the weather is cooler. Holidays lighten our spirits, and we become more thoughtful of the needs of others. We reflect on the bounties we enjoyed during the year and want to “give back.”  And for high-income earners, their net pay may be higher due to caps on annual federal payments or year-end bonuses.

Many people who make charitable contributions have specific organizations they like to support. If you wonder how the not-for-profit uses your donation, several organizations monitor nonprofit organizations and their financial well-being.  I have used GuideStar to review nonprofits’ financial health and other data.  GuideStar houses data for almost three million nonprofits. Doing your research gives you peace of mind, knowing how charities rank based on effectiveness or efficiency.
They review donors, volunteers, and administration of these organizations.  In most cases, the nonprofit organizations self-report but in some cases the reviewing organization does its own research. GuideStar, Charity Navigator, Givewell, and Great Nonprofits are a few.

Remember local charities, also. There are groups to which I donate lightly used items throughout the year, but often forget they also need cash to support their missions.

Importantly, one should know about the health, status, and focus of the organization to which you are donating.  Don’t go strictly by the name of the organization, assuming their work focuses only on the needs in their name. Personify WildApricot states that two-thirds of donors do not do their research!

I have recently joined a nonprofit organization whose sole purpose is to donate large sums to other nonprofits.  The idea is that I can make a donation which of course is appreciated; however, when several of us pool our money, we can make larger donations ($100,000) to a few nonprofits.  With that kind of money, their agendas are better supported, and their dreams get a huge kick start. The impact of each large donation makes a huge difference in our community. Of course a nonprofit must apply for the grant and rise to the top of a well-designed vetting and evaluation process.

People and organizations are stretched thin financially. As we consider our hard-earned dollars going to help others, we want to feel confident that the money truly helps make a difference. With a little research and a big heart, even a few dollars will make a difference. So large or small, carefully give as you are moved to do so, knowing your contribution is sincerely appreciated.

Finding Christmas Cheer

by Cynthia, posted in Reviews

One of the most popular storytellers of current times is James Patterson. My aunt loves to read his novels about the Women’s Murder Club, Alex Cross, Maximum Ride and others. Several people enjoy his biographies – stories about well-known figures in politics, entertainment, and even military, police and medical service heroes. Why would I write about violent mysteries smack dab in the middle of holidays season. [Yes, lots of traditions celebrate various holidays this time of year.]

Mr. Patterson has collaborated with writers such as Michael Crichton, Dolly Parton, and even Bill Clinton.  Recently, Mr. Patterson has paired with Tad Safran who writes for TV, film, podcasts, newspapers and books.

This season the gentlemen have produced a timely fantasy centered on the traditional carol of gifts for one’s true love. Many parodies are based on this 1780s song and this story may be considered one such parody, although …. Well, I don’t want to spoil the punch line. Or the story line for that matter. Suffice it to say, the 276-page paperback The Twelve Topsy-Turvy, Very Messy Days of Christmas is a delightful and easy read. It’s just what we need this time of year.

Take a break from decorating, grab a cup of hot tea, cocoa, or coffee with rich cream from the cows in your back yard, put your feet up (if you can find a place to sit) and enjoy the story of Henry, the professorial father who has lost Christmas after the passing of his beloved wife, and Will and Ella, their disappointed children who wish for happiness, good food, and laughter – and Christmas – in their home once again.

Enjoy the antics resulting in gifts from Ms. TrueLove as observed by Dean Grumpf, Dr. Fringe, and Marianna, not to mention the neighbors. If the finale doesn’t delight you, beware.  I may just send you gifts for twelve days.

Annual All Girls’ Movie Night

by Cynthia, posted in Lifestyle

Several years ago I was searching for festivities that would replace Christmas parties so mom could celebrate the season in style, while staying home. I came upon the idea of an all-girls’ Christmas Movie Night. My daughter and granddaughter are local. My sister and her daughter live a little more than three hours away.  So we made it a weekend – celebrating the first annual Christmas season kickoff for mom’s benefit several years ago.

My sister and I love a good theme to direct our gatherings and the Annual Girls’ Christmas Movie Weekend is no exception. The first year was “Let it Snow” – everyone received a Christmas or winter-theme throw as a favor. Our goodies included snowflake cookies, along with other yummy snacks. Glitter was everywhere. And we watched White Christmas.

Another year’s theme was Slumber Party. Each lady received pajamas. One year was Breakfast at Tiffany’s and the favors became robes, sleeping masks, lip gloss and fake jewelry.   There were a few others up until last year when we went full-on Grinch! Green everywhere, including the punch. And of course we watched How the Grinch Stole Christmas. My sister got mom an animated Grinch doll. Mom laughed every time it danced across the floor. She showed every hospice visitor and anyone else who stopped in to say hello.

Sadly, mom will not be with us this year. To continue the tradition but in an attempt to lighten our spirits, the weekend has been moved to my sister’s home. My daughter, granddaughter, and I will travel on a Friday morning, arriving in time for lunch and some Christmas shopping.  Afterwards we will build gingerbread houses (from kits!) and watch a movie.  You may guess our theme is Gingerbread this year.

My favors will be glass “cans” with metal reusable straws from 1Canoe2 which are adorned with gingerbread houses. Staying in that vein, I have included gingerbread shaped and flavored marshmallow from Walmart (the only place I could find them!); gingerbread men hot cocoa bombs from Target; gingerbread themed cupcake papers; and a gingerbread figure ornament.  Items fit neatly into cute gingerbread house bags I found at Hallmark. Gift tags are miniature gingerbread ornaments on which I wrote each person’s name.

Each of us bring some kind of favor – a small gift that accompanies the theme. How fun it is to discover our creativity in selecting our respective favors.

Of course the best part is to have some girl time with sisters, daughters, nieces, aunts.  Sorry, guys. You are on your own for the weekend. My grandson will house sit and my son-in-law will keep their fur babies company. Admittedly, I leave a special little “something” for them, too. And we will raise a glass – of gingerbread cocoa – to our mom who is now an angel, looking down on us and laughing.