Happy Holidays!

I have been very sad the past few days because the holidays just aren't the same without my Mami around. I keep coming across mementos and things that remind me of her... What has definitely helped some is that it's been an eventful few weeks, so keeping my mind occupied is good therapy. Here's a recap of the past couple of weeks.

First of all, I did go back and visit Demetrio at his home. He has some bruises from the fall, but he went to his doctor and is being cared for... He was out and about last week so he seems to be okay. God bless him.

This holiday season, I have actually baked a couple of times. I hate to cook, but baking is fun. I made these "Magic Blondies" from MarthaStewart.com on Thanksgiving and again for my friend Barb's birthday. They are yummy, but they're actually more like breakfast muffins.



I started my second December Daily album because I gave the first one to my mother-in-law (I knew she would really appreciate it!). It's a beautiful album that I made in Ohio when I visited Trish. The second acrylic album isn't even close to being finished yet, but here's a sneak peek at the cover...



My company celebrated this year's successes (and challenges) with a holiday party at Garry's house (he's the publisher). We planned to recognize a few folks and hand out trophies and I was happy to honor a couple of my top employees. BUT the big surprise came toward the end, when Garry announced the Employee of the Year and it was little old ME!!!! What a great surprise. It's been a tough year so it made this even sweeter!



We gathered at Barb's house to celebrate her 30th birthday (give or take... LOL!) and we had lots of fun scrapping, eating and opening presents. I made a 2009 calendar project inspired by Jenny Bowlin... (photos to come). Isn't Barb just lovely?





Then, on Dec. 19th, we all exchanged scrappy kits we made ourselves. It was Lou's idea to put together kits using items from our stash and then we picked numbers so it was a complete surprise. I love the kit I got with Esther's Stampin' Up! goodies. Whoohoo! Barb set up the table beautifully. We were in awe. I felt like we were at a romantic bed and breakfast (minus the husband... LOL!). We each brought a plate to share and we ate some delicious food. It was great!







Richard and I took a stroll down Miracle Mile to browse the shops and enjoy the lights and splendor all around us. This is a photo we took at the Christmas Village they have every year.



That's all for now... I have so many more photos, but those will have to come later. I took lots of photos on Christmas, I finally did get around to decorating my home for the holidays, and I've been working on my scrap room... Plus, I was a very good girl this year because Santa was VERY good to me. I received a new camera, a beautiful vintage typewriter, my one-of-a-kind chandelier from Ohio (thanks to my BFF and to Trish for helping make it possible!), bedding, a suitcase, and more!!!

May you have a safe and happy New Year filled with many wonderful blessings! Thank you so much for stopping by (even though I haven't been blogging as much lately). Your comments make me smile and I truly appreciate each and every one of you...

Peace and happy scrapping,
Vanessa