Relaxing........and civilized

I would like to think I could enjoy a lovely New Year's Eve dinner all bundled up on our covered veranda as it does look romantic, but after flying into the Oklahoma blizzard on Christmas Eve and cancelled flights on the return home to Canada via Detroit, I think we are really in the mood for a quiet fireside dinner. Something relaxing and civilized........ something air travel is not these days. It sets the mood for New Year's Day, my "reflection" day as my husband does his annual and uninterupted sportsfest on TV and I make lists for the year ahead. This year I am going to approach it in a more organized fashion with a flow chart of what I personally and professionally want to accomplish this year, blog included. Sounds daunting doesn't it? It's not as serious as it sounds, I will be wearing my pajamas all day long. I love that part.

Holiday clean-up is ahead for most of you and I hope you saved all of your gift ribbon because you have a bit of ironing to do. Ribbon, tissue paper, and most gift wrap can be ironed on low settings and re-used. For gift wrap cut out the gift wrap sections that aren't covered in tape (the center) and re-use for smaller gifts throughout the year. One of the reasons I believe in all season gift wrap. I was so taken with this holiday wreath from the blog My Notting Hill, I asked Michele if I could share her beautiful Beacon Hill photo with you as an idea for using a varied collection of leftover ribbon lengths. I love the simple but festive look of this fresh boxwood wreath, especially the bright ribbons adding colour and movement on a gray winter day.

Another idea for leftover ribbon? Save it for upcoming occasions where you can ribbon embellish the chair for the guest of honour. A bridal shower, a wedding or birthday party, any time you want someone to feel special. Lovely isn't it?

Have a safe and sound New Year's Eve and wishing each of you the most fabulous 2010.

May your next year be beautifully wrapped in love, happiness and good health.

A most special Thank You to all my readers, followers and fellow bloggers.

You are truly the most talented and inspiring group of women

and I am honoured to be heard and included in this

amazing community of support and creativity.

Meeting each and every one of you has made 2009 one of my best years yet.

I can't wait to meet more of you in 2010.

Top photo by Laurence Pasquier ~ Sarah Kaye/2nd photo by blog My Notting Hill/3rd photo by Mario Villa via blog A Room Somewhere/Bottom photo by Chris Everard ~ Sarah Kaye