Thursday, December 8, 2011

Seeing Red

blue

via

via

source unknown

or even 

yellow

purple

and green

for that matter

via


is a question of taking 

notice

of what has always been

in front of you 


via
 
but seeing it 

AGAIN

with new eyes.

via


The world takes longer to 

adapt

or may never even evolve 

AT ALL.


But how we see it

can change

in an instant


if we just stop to 


see red

via

or any other arresting moment 

of 

fleeting wonder


source unknown


in order to create from our 

REBIRTH



a work of art

a poem


or a new life

source unknown

that CAN alter how 

we

see the world.

Bundle up this season


via


and look out your window 


source unknown
 
and watch

a miracle unfold.




source unknown


147 comments:

Hearts Turned said...

Beautiful, beautiful, BEAUTIFUL, sweet Anita! Color does make the world so very wonderful, doesn't it?! Always a miracle or a wonder to behold if only we look...thank-you for the reminder, dear friend...

Off to see the colors...

Julie

Martina said...

Ha, Anita, i wasn't expecting your new post so early but here it is and, congrats dear, everything looks so good! I want to take it out of the screen, esoecially the hot chocolate - to share it with you of course! Thank you for cooking up such a delicious post of miracle and wonder! Bonne nuit! xx

Simplement ... said...

De la même manière que j'ai eu tant de plaisir à commencer l'année avec toi, je suis enchantée d'égrener les jours qui nous séparent de Noël en venant sur ton blog où tout n'est que beauté et espérance.
Merci chère Anita.
Je t'embrasse tendrement
Marie-Ange

Sacha said...

Comme toujours il est très agréable de plonger dans ton blog tes billets y sont toujours , beaux , tendres et invitent toujours à une délicieuse rêverie et toujours j'ai plaisir plaisir d'admirer tes photos ....
Merci Anita
Grosse bise
Bonne fin de semaine
A++Sacha

RDA Pony Tales said...

Oh Anita, what a joyous post!! It is like finding the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow coming to visit you! Wonderful words as always, and pictures to brighten my day.... but that white horse is just adorable! If only Spotty would stay that clean!! I hope you are having a good week. Much love, Abby xx

BonjourRomance said...

Beautiful Anita! The red velvet hot choclate has me heading to the kitchen, and of course, the images of Paris are lovely.
Looking out my curtain now!
Bisous,
Mimi

Cottage and Broome said...

Pretty picture, hard to decide which I like best. Laura

Peeters Liliane said...

Hello my friend,
I can not believe how you do this, you always use such lovely words and find matching pictures!!!
Can you tell me your secret???
Again I love this post!!!
I'm sorry that I not responded on your last post, it was a very busy week for me.
Big hug,
Liliane

Sylvia said...

Simply enchanting ! Dear Anita, every single picture together with your beautiful words speak directly to my heart ...I have learned my lesson : miracles happen every day and we can see them all around us as long as our hearts and eyes are wide open . Thank you for the pure delight !
I wish you a warm and gentle season !

Pam @ over50feeling40 said...

I saw your post, picked up my lab top and ran down to show it to my friend GIGI...we sat and salivated over each picture together..Fabulous..I think my personal goal in the last few years has been to start each day with joy!!

Wendi @ Classic Chic Home said...

Thank you, Anita, for the reminder to view the world through a kaleidescope of color, rather than a tunnel of black and white.
As our perception of life changes, so our lives will change...
Have a lovely day, Anita!
~ Wendi ~

BirgitW. said...

ma chère Anita,


Merci bien pour ton commentaire sur mon blog... je suis très heureuse!!!

Aujourd `hui j`aime mieux deux photos - Les Mains( directement dans mon coeur ) et le Tour d `Eiffel... avec les parapluies rouge - (mon rêve francais)!

Tu as des idées romantique - Merci beaucoup!

Et --- je te souhaîte un très bon week-end... et bonne chance á Minnesota....

Amitiés ta Birgit - allemande

Kathysue said...

Anita, beautiful beautiful words and images. Always a delight for the eyes and the mind and spirit when I visit your blog. Merry Merry Christmas,
Kathysue♥

Fete et Fleur said...

BEAUTIFUL! Anita, you have a a great gift of telling a beautiful story with gorgeous photos and words. That white horse photo took my breath away!

Love you and Ruben!
Nancy

RobinfromCA said...

So beautiful, as always. Such a great message! Love those shoes and the red umbrellas especially! It's like a mini vacation to stop by and see what lovelies you have to share.
((Hugs))
Robin

Anne said...

bright and beautiful! love love the newest banner too...

YONKS said...

Beautiful my dear friend!
Di
xoxo

helen tilston said...

Dear Anita

I love the music that accompanies this brilliant post.

The horse captured my heart

Thank you for this beautiful surprising post.

Helenxx

It's me said...

That choclate looks like a dream......so nice......love your new post !!!...great !!!...enjoy a happy weekend my dear friend.....love love from me....xxx..

BirgitW. said...

je suis, je pense...en francais: une femme au foyer???

Bonne nuit et Merci!!!

ta Birgit

Crystal Rose Cottage said...

You are early this week! A new change from the beautiful aquas...red is the color of the season. That Hot chocolate looks so decadent! Cream cheese in the whip cream too! Hope you are taking time to enjoy this busy time of year!~Hugs, Patti

Ivy Clad said...

Oh, my eyes are prickling again!! ::sniff:: This is beautiful. I absolutely love red.

I am enjoying this Christmas season so much, and the reason is so simple. Nothing is over-the-top spectacular, but everyday I'm looking for something beautiful, or humorous, or sweet. And you know what? I'm finding it! There is so much to see and feel and smile about just as soon as I opened my eyes wide enough to notice them, just like you've said!

Love to you at Christmastime from someone who is seeing the season with new eyes.

Keri

Deana Sidney said...

Never were truer words spoken. If you have eyes to see, every day can be filled with magic. I was trying to remember a quote the other day ... I think it was from Adolf Loos ... it goes something like 'to the artist all materials are of equal value'. I love that idea. A feather and a diamond in the hand and heart of an artist are the same... they are food for their imagination.
Do you know Joseph Cornell? You would love his work I think. Keep finding your magic, lovely Anita... and share it with us all!

C'est moi Claudette said...

You know those grandmother's hands and baby's hands tugged at my heart. But the red velvet cake, omg. My aunty Anne, my godmother, would make me one for my birthday every year. She's still alive at 94. Your pictures sure have that "pretty" punch today dear friend... but then they always do.
It's a beautiful sunny day for a change, but it's cold. I was going to go out and get my hair cut and nails done, but I'm cozy here in the cottage.
I received my purchases from Violet today, LOVE them all.
Sending you warm hot coco hugs.
xoxoxoxoxoxo

Mapi said...

Yes I do see a lot of miracles around me and one of them is You !!
Love and a big hug
Mapi

Nicolina said...

Wow ;)

~*~ saskia ~*~ said...

Joy to the world! YOU bring you to the world, and not only the blog world.
Have a magical time gearing up to the Holiday Season, ma chere. I bet you are running running and running at school these days.
My days are way to filled too. Let's not forget to smile with everything we do. Much love to you Anita xxooxx

desde my ventana said...

Anita,
Thank you for your wonderful post, it's tru...very important to see the shades of our life, everything looks different.

HAve a happy weekend

Muchos besos

Cecilia

Unknown said...

HI sweetpie I could REALLY drink the hot chocolate !! with the red velvet enjoying your colours too
just back from a meeting re another show for my artist in Florence ! weeeeeeeeeeee thanks for your visit today sleep well xxxFay

Wicked Faerie Queen said...

Anita, your post has brought a smile to my face that I have not been able to do for a few days. Thank you for bringing some light into a dark time in my week.

Have a very happy Christmas,
Sue

The enchanted home said...

Anita, even after a full long exhausting day of "life" your posts never ever fail to have the power to ressurect every one of my senses and I do not say that lightly. You truly have the gift to awaken, inspire and exhilarate! Thank you, this was way better of a pick up than any coffee I could have had:) It gave me the second burst of energy, vigor and hope I need to get through the next part of my day!!! XO

Queen Of The Armchair aka Dzintra Stitcheries said...

Oh Anita today I will notice the colour around me...at the moment a lot of green and a beautiful sunny day...perhaps the start of the swimming season is coming...it has been cool here for a while...not like it this time of year...though your red velvet chocolate sounds delicious, even at this time of year...Have a wonderful weekend...and of course with a cheers...Dzintra xo

Queen Of The Armchair aka Dzintra Stitcheries said...

Very tempting...as are the macarons...and the blue shoes!!!

Queen Of The Armchair aka Dzintra Stitcheries said...

ha ha, okay you have them and I will have some flip flops for the beach...

lisa Moran, Bilancia Designs said...

I want a piece of that cake.
Right now. :)
Another beautiful post, of course...and an added treat that it came a day early.
I like it much better when you take the day off. :) :)
Huge hugs to you xoxo

Elizabeth@ Pine Cones and Acorns said...

Oh my friend, I have missed you and our chats! I am so happy that this was the first post I read upon my return from PAris! I could not agree more...simply opening your eyes each day allows one to see even the worst day in a new light.

I hope you are feeling better!! I cannot wait to tell you about my adventures.

xoxo Elizabeth

Unknown said...

Anita,
I loved this post. The world seems to spinning out of control and yet, if we chose JOY, and look for the glimmers of miracles around us, we can be more than happy. We can be on purpose.

Tomorrow is my Birthday, and I am driving up north to see my Mom. This Christmas I have built a little cocoon around my family and trying to keep my priorities simple and thankful.

Wishing you a lovely weekend. There's just enough snow in Vermont to look pretty.

Karen

Arabella said...

Miracles happen every day - what a lovely post today. Thank you for the beauty you share with the world.

Happy Holidays & hugs,
Marie

hi-d said...

Hello Anita,

Oh, what a beautiful post! Yes...we need to STOP, LOOK & LISTEN. There is so much in this life to be thankful for and appreciate. I hope you are getting a day off tomorrow? :)

I got the cards today! SOOO pretty! Those images are just precious. Thank you so much! The packaging was great!! And to answer your question, yes...I do see what you're talking about with the paper curling slightly. It's nothing major, but I understand what you're talking about. I wonder if a heavier weight or different type would help?

I've already written in 2 of the cards and they are going in the mail tomorrow. Also, I'm going to get a picture frame and put one of the cards in that. That way I can look at it all the time and I will always be reminded of your sweetness.

Have a blessed evening!
Heidi

Red Rose Alley said...

Dear Anita,
BE STILL MY HEART!!

In all it's REDNESS! I love your post today. God has so many bright and beautiful colors in His world, and red is a favorite of mine. It is definately a color for Christmas. The red velvet cake on your HEADER - can you believe that? Oh, and I do love torqoise too. The picture of the old and the young hands holding eachother was so sweet.

Thank you, Anita, for bringing love to my day. What a glorious color.

Sheri at Red Rose Alley

Draffin Bears said...

Dear Anita,

Always a delight to come and visit you dear friend and thank you for sharing such a lovely post.
The love and joy you share here with us is much appreciated.
Wishing you a wonderful weekend and enjoy your day off.

Sending hugs
Carolyn

French Girl in Seattle said...

Bonsoir Anita. Superbe billet, et "de saison" comme on dit ;-) J'aime toutes les photos, mais avec une petite préférence pour la dernière, avec la silhouette de la Tour Eiffel. Merci Anita et bon weekend, Veronique (French Girl in Seattle)

Jeanine (Wayfaring Girl) said...

What a lovely glimpse into wonder and beauty. Love your posts :))

Jeanine

Calico Child said...

Ooh Anita you just post so exquisite I love the red cake & swirly frosting I wish I could just take a bite hee & that chocolate mug :) it reminded me of when I lived in Milano we used to have hot chocolates & swirl our mars bars in them naughty but nice!!! :)))

Apple Blossom Barn said...

Oh Anita, I really look forward to your posts, your selection this week is so gorgeous, I love the header pictures, that cottage looks like some on the lake near me.
Your words are so thought provoking
the two sets of hands together has pulled on my heart strings this morning and I have a teary face, best fix my make up and face the world,

All my love
xxxxx
Denise

The Dutchess said...

Aaahh...a surprise post..how lucky I was to look through my computer window...

Sending big hugs and kisses..my computer died..so did my phone..but I'm working on both problems....

Donna in Potomac said...

It is no wonder you are a teacher! As the Little Prince would say, "It is only with the HEART that one can see rightly" and I say...there's a lotta LOVE in this room! I enjoyed every photo and every comment.

Cheryl said...

Anita,
Your words, music and images truly sooth my heart. Thank you for such beauty to begin my day.

La Petite Gallery said...

This is so beautiful. Now we can see the world as you do.
You have a beautiful mind.
Love Yvonne

Unknown said...

I see life in red colored glasses, forget the color rose, red is the season and it's about to unfold!

I took my Christmas looking glass out and what should appear?

1099 red gnome hats...
everywhere!

Love the magic of it all and sharing it with you. Delightful post, my favorite pic is the old and the new photo of hands held in love.

"Create Beauty" said...

Oh this is GLORIOUS!!!!!

Knowing you has brought such beauty and joy to my days Anita!

You have that special 'God Spark' that lights up a room (and a blog!)

I've so enjoyed the beauty and elegance here this morning and the peaceful music, what a lovely way to begin my day.....

Bless you dear girl,
Violet

Angelsdoor * Penny said...

BEAUTIFUL Anita! Thank you for another year of magic and wonder... I wish we were next door so we could sit and slice that red velvet cake and enjoy together...
BISOUS!
Penny

DolceDreams said...

A-M-A-Z-I-N-G dear Anita!!! Have a colourful weekend...
xo, nathalie

Palomasea said...

There is so much love here, my darling friend...
I am here too, sending my love your way, and tight hugs.
You have managed to make me cry once again ;))), as I take in your beautiful message and creation. MAGICAL...that is what you are!!!!
Peace and beauty and joy to you, dear one..a gifted poet you are. :)
LOVE YOU!!!
- Irina

Style Diary Of A Fashion Fanatic said...

Hi dearest Anita!!!
What a heart warming post!!!!
I adore the Tiffany blue shoes & red umbrellas at the Eiffel Tower!!! :-)
We had snow flurries here last night. I love snow; it's so pretty on the tree branches & rooftops....
I have been watching Christmas specials on TV...
"A Christmas Carol" from 1938 was on TCM the other night. I love the older version :-)
Have you been Christmas shopping?
I'm almost done!!!!
Hope you have a wonderful weekend!!!!
Talk to you soon!!!
Hugs!!!!
Shannon :-)

Unknown said...

Anita, so nice to see your blue post! I want to thank you, dear, for all the sweet words we exchanged this year. Incentivation is one of the most precious fuel to keep our work shine. Thanks!
LOve, Bela

trump said...

A very dream like post Anita, and your hot chocolate images reminds me to buy some and have it handy for the cold weather now making its way to me. Your easing into Christmas with some subtle holiday picture's i see. Richard from Amish Stories

Debi said...

Dear Anita,
I have been away too long. Coming back to visit your blog made me realize how much I have missed. It is beauitful in every way.
Thank you for such a wonderful post!
xo
Debi

wendy said...

What a neat post...touched so many of my senses. I could taste that AMAZING hot chocolate, feel the crispness and chilliness of the snow, see the possiblities you speak of.......if we take notice.
I wonder how many of lifes little miracles we miss, because we are not PRESENT...and don't take the time to beathe in all the wonders around us.
I need to reflect on that for sure. I don't want to miss stuff.

Merry Christmas to you my dear creative friend. I am headed to Utah on the 14th, so won't be back to you until the end of Dec.

I am sure there is much magic awaiting all of us these next few weeks.

Jacqueline said...

Tonight after friends left I decided to just sit in front of the fire and enjoy it and the Christmas music in the background. We do need to take more time to be still!

Jade said...

Oh, Anita, my dear friend..........your wonderful posts always make my heart sing!!!! What a great joy to visit you in your world full of love and beauty!!!! The chocolate looks soooooo delicious and i loooooooooove the picture with the white horse and everything.........sooooooo beautiful!!! And your HEADER!!!!!!!!!! I love love love it!!!!! Thank you for all and have a wonderful weekend!!!

Warm Hugs Jade & Sheila
PS: Now it is snowing here........looks sooooo beautiful!

~*~ saskia ~*~ said...

Good good Saturday morning ma chere. Your images always succeed in bringing me peace and calmness inside to sit back and relax for a little while. I love coming over here for my doses of sweetness and words to think about.
Have a most lovely time gearing up for Christmas, Anita. Let's keep Francis in our minds a little more.
Love xxx

~*~ saskia ~*~ said...

Smiles and Smooches to YOU *~*

Unknown said...

Hi Anita,

Did you get my email? I am not sure what your email is now?
You know I'm on Facebook with you and Pinterest. That is a fabulous place and so creative!

I totally understand about being so busy your teacup is spinning and won't stop. Some days we can manage it all without the tea spilling and other days it seems like tea is everywhere but, in the safe little teacup.

Me too, I feel the same way. Little Tazmo has been ill and I was so scared. My work is full and busy but happy. The thrift store has it's own special sparkle and I love doing the displays and now I'm out marketing 3 days a week too. We are for profit but we support several places with huge needs. We are helping a youth group get to Mexico to build homes, we are helping the Women's Care Shelter, The Humane Society, food banks and many churches. It's good to be a part of work that gives back and it's not just about money and saving it to retire!

Take time to sip tea,
Love you my friend.

Karena said...

Anita wonderful images!! have a bright and colorful weekend!

The 12 Days of Holiday Giveaways!! The French Basketeer has a special offering right now and there are more gifts open to enter!

xoxo
Karena

Art by Karena

koralee said...

Such beauty my sweet friend....I adore all these images..just my colours...red and turquoise pure joy...now for a cup of that hot red velvet cocoa...I think that is something they must serve in HEAVEN! Off we go on our weekend..hugs to you for a special day...just had to pop in before we head off to say you are the BEST! xoxoxoxo

Kerri said...

Yes, I love red at Christmastime! As much as I love pink, it has to be red for me!

My eyes focused on that red velvet cake you have up there.lol

YUMMY :)

Have a wonderful weekend!

xoxo
Kerri

Dawne Boynton Polis said...

Red lips, Red hearts, Red shoes, I love all Red!! And yellow, burnt orange, lavender, aqua, puce, blue... and YOU!! A beautiful post, taking me by surprise on this Christmasy morning, as I dash around fluffing my nest in preparation for 100 people to come through all my rooms on the Christmas House Tour!!!! So please forgive me if I have been absent of late. I shall return! And I shall return to THIS lovely post several times, I think. Which rhymes with ...PINK!!!
[You bring out the poet in us!]
XXOO

LuLu Kellogg said...

These images are making me smile :)

I hope your holiday season is full of love and magic dearest Anita!

Love,
LuLu~*xoxo

hi-d said...

Hello Anita,

Thanks for stopping by and for your sweet comment. It has been such a whirlwind of a year. I so appreciate your friendship and that skype chat was a lot a fun. We will have to do that again one of these days.

I hope you have a restful weekend...

xoxo
Heidi

mati said...

Bonsoir,
I am Français & American !
Je suis arrivée en France il y a 6 ans!
It is not a surprise that you teach French - you seem french in your senisiblities!
Thanks for visiting my blog

Anonymous said...

Beautiful. That hot chocolate sounds like Heaven!! xo

jerilanders said...

So I am scrolling down your fine photos and enjoying your words when all of the sudden... OH! How did ANita find a photograph of MY hands!!! Well, okay, maybe mine aren't THAT old looking... but I hope they someday will be.
CHEERS!

A Magical Whimsy said...

Dearest Anita,
I adore your banner with the crocheted dress, the hot chocolate, the Scottish Moors (or maybe France?).
I do crochet and have made countless fine thread doilies and a few tablecloths...tedious work but the pieces are richly rewarding when finished. Kind of like life...tedious work...but richly rewarded when finished. To think that we will be richly rewarded for doing mundane hum drum daily chores and work, will more than be joyous for us when life is done here on Earth.
Oh, the brother and sister dolls are so, very, very charming...they look like they have come out of a vintage Victorian children's nursery room. Cheryl Foster of Pie Cake Primitives who made the dolls, was just featured in PRIMS by Stampington publications. I fell in love with her style over a year ago and have five of her sweet creations. Yes, I am selling the brother and sister as a set and they are $150 total which the shipping and handling is included in that price, sent priority mail and insured. And I can only accept U.S. Postal Money orders as they are the most secure form of payment (I don't have Pay Pal). Yes! Please email me to let me know what you think. And I can take layaway too...say $50 a week. That is how I have purchased many of my more expensive dolls with a layaway plan too. Most doll makers are thrilled to sell their dolls and make exceptions for their customers.
Hope you are feeling more rested, but you will probably be extending yourself until the last day of this school Holiday Season.
Here is my email address again:
tscat@sbcglobal.net
It has been fun collecting dolls!
Merci~
love and hugs,
Teresa
http://amagicalwhimsy.blogspot.com/

Aurelia said...

A great collection of photos. Great blog, your an inspiration!!
pls take a look at my blog, I am of course your follower.
http://aprettylife13.blogspot.com/

RDA Pony Tales said...

Hello dearest Anita
Thank you for your visit and lovely comments. Nothing is more magical than being on a horses back, other than a visit to your blog of course! I hope you are having a lovely weekend.
Much love and warm hugs,
Abby and Spotty xx

Julie Taylor and Danni Greenwalt said...

Just beautiful. You should gather all your post and put it in a book and publish it. Its always so inspiring.

Marqueta (Mar-kee-ta) G. said...

Dear Anita,

Another beautiful, COLORFULL post! Thank you for the reminder to stop and look around.

I hope you're getting all ready for the holidays.

Love,

Marqueta

hi-d said...

I forgot to mention how much I LOVE that photo of the hands - young and old. So precious!

Mariette VandenMunckhof-Vedder said...

Dearest Anita,

Sorry for being late... Such a lovely post with great poem again, and you found such perfectly matching photos.
Our daughter Liz was with us and she flew back on Friday, to Rotterdam in The Netherlands. Did a post about her yesterday...
Love to you,

Mariette

Barbara said...

Anita, your photos today are so special.
The old and young hands together nearly brought a tear to my eye.
Beauty is everywhere and I am so envious of those artistic minds that can focus on something that will result in a perfect photo that moves us.
Thank you for finding these to share....

Maria said...

Good morning, Anita!
Your words ring so true! No day can ever be just like the day before. Each moment is an original! Just as you are! So glad to know one of God's beautiful creations. YOU!
Have a wonderful Sunday mon amie!
Maria

Palomasea said...

Coming by for another dose of magic dearest!!! Oh, you know how to create an otherworldly experience...
Indeed to see with new eyes what has been in front of us all along, what a beautiful lesson and GIFT!
You are such a gift, my dear friend..
I'm so glad you liked the sweet Kermit song, you are going to love this witty and wacky group of Muppets, I just know it!!
Love you,
- Irina

Sandra van Doorn said...

what a the feast for the eyes and the soul...
adn teh new banner... Anita everything you do is always so beautiful. xo sandra

karen - Simply Inspired said...

anita... so divinely inspirational as always... i adore the red umbrellas with the eiffel tower (you are always so lovely with your dedication to giving photo credit!). most of all, your friendship blesses me.
continued season's joys to you...
-xok.

Vær våken said...

Dear Anita, I have missed you, too, and I'm SO glad to be back!!! How inspiring to visit your beautiful blog again and breathtaking post. I got lost in those photos so all I want to do now is making me a cup of cocoa with whipped cream and marshmallows :) AND those last three photos are so filled with magic! Love that Eiffel tower photo! I hope you have an absolutely wonderful Sunday and I'm looking forward to celebrating December together with you!

Hugs, Kristin

Celestina Marie said...

Hi Anita,
What a beautiful post that is the spirit of the season and brings such JOY. I love red at Christmas and those red umbrellas just look gorgeous.
I hope your Christmas is special in every way and you make memories that inspire.

Blessings, Celestina Marie

Victoria Sayer said...

Ahhh... the Queen of blogging has done it again!
Nice one, Anita!
Love that photo of those very old and very young hands.
Colours bring us such delight.
I love it when while out and about, I see something that catches my attention with its artisic 'cleverness'...like seeing a Jacaranda in full bloom with all of its purple splendor, and just nearby, there is something of the exact same colour...say, a coat or umbrella that someone is wearing. The matching colours delighting me with the chance combination of these two things. Beautiful serendipity moments!

Blessings to you, 'Royal One', as Christmas also catches our hearts and minds.

:^)

Privet and Holly said...

Like the Good Witch
said, "You had the power,
all along!" It's the same
way with noticing the
beauty around us and
you do it so well, Anita.
Hope these last weeks
of school before break
are filled with wonders
for you....

xx Suzanne

Denise said...

Oh yes!Fleeting wonder's and miracle's unfolding.I've always been about those but the older I get the stronger and brighter they become.I pray the same thing happens to you,I think it will.

Draffin Bears said...

Dear Anita,

Just dropped by to wish you a happy new week as we are counting down the days until Christmas.
Hope school is going well and won't be long now, until the holidays.

Sending hugs
Carolyn

Rosie said...

Ahhhh....I'm slipping on my glittery
R E D slippers...clicking my heels "THREE" times and taking a WONDERfilled journey into your world to "watch a miracle unfold".
Oh how the MAGIC floats in the air here...breath taking.
The days are running together...I can't hardly believe that the holidays are ALMOST upon us. Still have a few tasks to check off before Thursday, when Ryan will come through the front door. Must shop tomorrow and hopefully, do one last batch of "tigerbutter"...(white chocolate, milk chocolate and peanut butter all swirled together in a melt in your mouth morsel)But we'll see what the day brings.
Thank you for that delicious cuppa you left on my counter this morning....ahhhh....perfect.
Sweet Dreams dear girl...hugs Rosie

Martina said...

Dearest Anita, sorry i come so late, but - i had^such computer problems this weekend - the keyboard wan't working and than everything was so painfully slow, so - i just unplugged. I'm better today, but still coughing and must be careful- What about you? We had a cozy advent-weekend - do you still have snow? Hugs for a sweet day!

michelle said...

Oh Dearest i so enjoy your posts and your insight, they inspire me, make me think, dream and aspire to be something better. I hope you are enjoying your holiday season and seeing it in a beautiful light.
Much love.
xoxoxo

koralee said...

Monday morning love to you dear one...we are off and running. Our last week before the HOLIDAYS. It will be busy but sooooo much FUN! I am off to visit your shop to see what fun treasures you have been creating. love to you.

Maya Kuzman said...

Oh Anita, this has really made the start of the week!
Incredibly joyous and sweet post!

fashion-meets-art said...

hello my lovely friend anita!
what for wonderful pictures. my favourites are the horse at the floor, the child hands and the old hands and of course the macarons .D it's christmas time so i only think for eating :D
but it's normal for me..till new years eve!
how are you dear? hope fine!
lovely greets from germany to you and
i wish you a wonderful week!

maren anita

www.fashion-meets-art.com

Style Diary Of A Fashion Fanatic said...

Dearest Anita!!!
How was your weekend? It was very cold here but no snow yet! We've had flurries on a off; even a dusting of snow on the ground but not a real snowfall.
We went to a antique shop on Saturday; I found a really cool vintage fur capelet!!! It had the monogrammed initials GHR... It was from a Pittsburgh Furrier... I think it will look great with jeans!!! :-)
It was fun to look at all the antique books and they had lots of vintage Christmas decor. They were playing Bing Crosby holiday music and serving egg nog and cookies!!!
I'm always on the search for Edgar Allan Poe antique books. He's one of my favorite authors; my college senior thesis was a biographical and psychological analysis of Poe. I really love his poetry!!!
Over time I have found amazing antique copies of Wuthering Heights and Little Women...
I hope you are having a fabulous Monday!!!!
Hugs!!! Shannon :-)

Elizabeth Rose Stanton said...

Spectacular photo of the big and little hands--a picture is worth a thousand words. You are a master of communicating through these images and sentiments.
I love visiting your blog, Anita.

Kirsten Steen said...

So true, Anita! And thank you for always showing us a new and exciting perspective! I'm looking forward to some fun photo opportunities this holiday season. Always so much fun to capture art in the everyday world! Many blessings in the holiday preparations!
Kirsten

Maria said...

Hi Anita...
I'm smiling over here because I saw this in Pinterest and thought of you right away... Of course, your Marie Antoinette's are for admiring...
These are for the bake shop!
I'm so silly today*
thought I'd pass the smiles on to you too!
~Maria

highheeledlife said...

Mon Ami thank you for always sharing such wonderful words with beautiful images that help to make the mind open and dream and give back. XO HHL

hi-d said...

It's hard to imagine Maximus in the 4th grade, but it will be here before you know it!

I hope your week is off to a good start. When does Christmas vacation start for you? I bet you're soooo excited!

Much love,
Heidi

Woolytales Miniatures said...

so beautiful Nita!!! I never heard of "red velvet Hot chocolate with cream cheese whipped cream'!!! wow that sounds .... yummy!!!hahha
Nita... my favorite picture is the hands of the old and young... so beautiful and of course... your words and heart! love you!!

Tiff said...

Once again, I visit you from my quiet little corner of the world and my heart begins to SING! Those images make me feel anything is possible!!!! I am uplifted with ideas and possibilites! New projects have been inspired!!! x

A Tale of Two Cities said...

I'm in NY this weekend where the city is sparkling. I'm soaking it up and taking in the wonder of it: red and all.

May each day of the Christmas season bring you new wonders!

designchic said...

I am always inspired and feel so rejuvenated after reading your lovely posts. The picture of the hands can almost bring tears to my eyes...beautiful!!

Unknown said...

buongiorno encore sweetpie glad you visited today grazie. I thought of you as I drank the hot chocolate !!and the wee raspberry dolce !Have a good day hugs to you too fay

koralee said...

Happy morning to you dear one....may you find joy among the craziness of school today. Four more days for me..and counting. I think I am worse than the students. So much to do....will it ever get done? Off to have a cup of tea and get on with my day....hugs to you.

Nezzy (Cow Patty Surprise) said...

What a lovely post, as usual darlin'!!!

I am quite curious about the red velvet hot chocolate...inquiring' minds want to know!

Oh that pic with those precious wise hands holdin' those chubby little cherub hands just melts my heart!

In this time of hurried bustle and hustle to get~er~done, let's not forget the greatest gift of all! Woohoo!!!

God bless ya and have a marvelous day my sweet friend! :o)

Decor de Provence said...

So simple, sweet and inspiring! Your words and images bring peace, joy and happiness always! Thanks again for sharing your gifts and spirit. You're a true talent!

Much love,
Desiree

trump said...

Anita i finally did it, because of this post i went out and bought some hot chocolate . So your post's is changing lives with reminding a guy like myself to keep some coco in his kitchen cabinet for the cold days ahead! Richard

Not Just a Waitress said...

We CAN alter how we see the world. Thank you as always for reminding us all, as your readers, to be better people. You are an inspiration.
BLESSINGS

koralee said...

You are sick?? That is not good my friend..sending you a warm hug and a cup of hot tea...lots of bed rest today for you. Your kiddlets will do just fine without you.
Today will be one of my busiest days...soooo much to do and so much to do after work once again....I think I must go find some good dark chocolate to get me through my day. Love to you and please feel better soon. xoxoxoxox

Martina said...

Awwwww, dearest sweet Anita, you are sick again? OMG, this winter is a bit rough on us and i'm sending you lots of inner sunshine to recover quickly! Take a rest and treat yourself very well - i think we've all had too much stress and we need some peace and quiet. I'm working again but still coughing and feeling very tired, i hardly find the energy to do all my things but hope to get my strength back over the weekend. Feel hugged dear one, am thinking of you! xox

Apple Blossom Barn said...

Anita you have a gift of always saying the right thing, do you know how young you look in your profile photo? Amazing!

I love hearing from you

All my best

Denise

Betty Jo said...

What a beautiful post and your blog is beautiful. I saw your comment at Claudies. I've had the sniffles too and don't feel much like Christmas yet. Hope you're feeling better soon!

Sandra van Doorn said...

bonjour ma petite Anita! just dropping by to send you some happy cheers , a healing hug and warm cup of tea!! hope you get better soon xo sandra

Burlap Luxe said...

Chers Anita, mon cher ami si gentil à vous de visite, vos paroles d'encouragement à mon art est sincère. Je serais heureux de voir votre arbre de branches et de sa beauté.
Bisous à mon ami
xoxo
Dore

I am always inspired by all you create over here, I have a little something I am sending you in the mail :)
lots of hugs.

Burlap Luxe said...

Pas besoin d'envoyer un cadeau ... Tu es notre CADEAU!

xoxo
Dore

hi-d said...

Hello Anita,

Thanks for stopping by! I hope you're having a good day. The photo with the red umbrellas is stunning...I just wanted to mention that.

Well, little Maximus is taking a nap, so I am having some fun reading blogs and wanted to come by for a quick visit. Now, I should probably think of something for dinner...ugh...any ideas? haha...

Heidi

Ivy and Elephants said...

My Dear Anita,
Are you as giddy as I am?! Only two more days until vacation. The kids are beside themselves, I hope we can survive! Enjoy and pamper yourself.
Thanks for your sweet words. I found a way to link your lovely theatre box, so you are now featured there and Dore, too.
Hugs and happiness,
Patti

June said...

I imagine you are looking forward to the Christmas break Anita. I hope your Christmas is a glorious as these photos.
hugs from here...

Christel said...

Dear Anita, do you see how very many messages you receive? Of course you do, that's a silly question, my point is, so many people love, and admire you, and love following your journey here through your words, and the beautiful images you pair with them. I am definitely a huge fan of your words Anita, and of you! I hope you are feeling better, and were able to get some rest. I visited Jackie earlier, and read that you had yet another bout with illness..we gotta stop this crap! Vitamin C is natures cure all..I am a strong believer in it's powers. My best to you always sweetie, get well soon. Much Love, Christel

Rosie said...

Oh that R E D header is just decadent!...Yum!
You must be counting down the days until you will be KICKING UP your heals with happy celebrations of OUR Saviors birth... Oh I am like a little kid, full of excitement and anticipating the J O Y my babies will bring home with them....YIPPPPPEEE!
YUP RY COMES HOME TOMORROW!!!!!!!!
I am not even close to being ready (one of my dear ladies has been bombarded by a VERY nasty flu bug...so I have been taking her shifts)I will scurry around EARLY tomorrow morning and get things together....I CAN'T WAIT!...just one more sleep...giggle.
OH Anita, you have been such a precious friend these last couple of years...I so cherish our friendship and someday WE WILL sit and have tea in person. Until then I will continue to pop into your kitchen and leave you a treat or two on your counter. Thank you dearest friend...love to you...Rosie

Unknown said...

You are a miracle, the way you see the world!
Thank you for making my days brighter!

Love!
Victoria

Christie Jones Ray said...

This was just fantastically beautiful, dearest!! Such a way you have with words...painting a picture with them....from your creative spirit. I am wide awake, crafty ideas racing around in my head and bumping into each other...tis the season;)) I wandered through some of my favorite little shops in town today, and thought of you as I saw a hint of aqua here and there...chandeliers...Paris....French sayings...you were there with me today, did you know?
Hoping your Christmas vacation will come soon, so you might enjoy, inhale...all that is blessed and all that is bliss;))
Bisous mon amie,
Christie

Mapi said...

Hello dear Anita,
Just stopping by to say hello.
Your comments always make me smile.
Liefs
Mapi

francis said...

My dearest .....
i love words but there seem to be less these days ....
But I love you my friend........ is always here ...so you know !

fashion-meets-art said...

hello my dear and thanks so much for your super sweet words- i rally appreciate it- it means so much for me. thanks so much that i had inspired you with my look. it means a lot for me! thank you my lovely friend! i wish you a wonderful "before" christmas time!
love
maren anita

www.fashion-meets-art.com

The Shade Shop, Inc. said...

Thank you, thank you, thank you for that sweet and gentle reminder at this hectic time of year! The Happiest of Holidays to you!

Grace said...

ahh a breath of sweet fresh air during this very busy Holiday Season. I just love visiting your blog. The pictures are so vivid so beautiful. Thank you for peace and joy. I hope you are enjoying this beautiful Season. Grace xoox

Martina said...

Dear sweet Anita, i hope you can stay home and look after yourself really well and use December as a creative break. I feel like doing the same and only keep to the very necessary at work - organizing all the christmas stuff takes time and energy too, although i love to do it. Thank god the weekend is near - time to breathe out and let go! Have a lovely evening! xx

Unknown said...

You bring all to a gentle gasp! with your breathtaking creative shares, Anita.

Just popping by as we haven't seen one another for a good while.

Merry Christmas
TTFN ~
Hugs,
Marydon

PS Please say a prayer for my Sherry-sis. TY

Such a Wondrous Place this Faery Space said...

I don't know if my comment got saved. I just said, You touched my heart. I am so glad to know your light. You are amazing! Blessings.

Seawashed said...

I am guessing you are ready for Christmas break! I hope you are able to relax and enjoy your time retreating in your dream room. Thank you for all of your faithful comments on my blog. I am not as good about commenting as you! I don't know how you find the time. I do not work outside the home and I can't find the time. Your kind words always mean so much to me. Merry Christmas my friend. ox

Anonymous said...

oh my goodness...
you mustn't...not ever give up.
everything must start from somewhere
and from there it can go anywhere...
anywhere you want it to.
i aspire toward images.
toward their beauty.
you do too.
it is evident on your blog.
keep drawing.
keep painting.
keep dreaming up those line.
one day, it will all come together
in a beautifully tied with a bow package.
you'll see.
xoxo Eden

koralee said...

Oh how are you feeling my friend? I was thinking of you through all the candy canes, performances, excited children, gingerbread houses, Christmas crafts, little angels with feathered wings, a Greek lunch...yes greek!, cheese balls, special coffees, crazy parents, math and bible lessons, ...etc
One more day for me! Yahoooo...it is going to be a busy weekend...2 Christmas parties to go to.
Take care dear one. xoxoxoxoxo

Maria said...

Hi Anita!
How has your week been going? Are you finished until the New Year?
I still have one more FULL WEEK to go... all the way until Friday!
{afternoon!}
I'm looking forward to Christmas though... in its FULL GLORY!
Il est né, le divin Enfant,
Jouez, hautbois, resonnez, musettes;
Il est né, le divin Enfant;
Chantons tous son avenement!
Have a wonderful weekend ♥
xoxo*
~Maria

Unknown said...

fantastic!!! I love the Eiffel tower with red umbrellas--- lost a designer one that I just loooved. I still think about it. And, the holding of hands---timeless beauty. Wishing you a lovely Christmas holiday---but I'll be back. Have been missing this space! :)
xo

Bren
B So Chic!™
http://www.bsochic.blogspot.com

*Chic Provence* said...

Dear Anita as always your post left me breathless! the images are gorgeous, but it's your words that go to the heart!

Much love this Christmas and always

Kit

koralee said...

Oh dear one...you must go see the Dr. as you do not want to be sick for next week...I am worried about you. Make sure your weekend is very restful...lots of sleep always helps me. Sending you ooodles of love ....wish I lived closer...I would pop over with a bowl of soup! xoxoxoxo

Stacey said...

Anita!
What a luscious post and i ADORE the header!! It's been so long since i last visited... I love the music in the background too. I always leave your blog feeling calmer and with a smile on my face:-). Schools are officially out for Christmas here and I hope you're also enjoying time off. I've been on maternity leave and will be until March:-). Have a grand weekend my lovely friend. XX

Style Diary Of A Fashion Fanatic said...

Hi dearest Anita!!!
How has your week been?
My husband & I have a couple holiday parties this weekend; Christmas is right around the corner. It's very cold here but no snow yet!!! I was hoping for a Christmas snowfall but I don't think we'll be getting any....
My dog Aidan was sick this week with colitis; he's doing much better now! Our other dog Isabelle injured her leg so I had a sick dog and a injured dog! When it rains it pours!!!
I hope you are having a wonderful day and have a fantastic weekend!!!
Sending lots of hugs and love,
Shannon :-)

trump said...

Anita i like to re-pop on to your blog to see if i may have missed something, and i think that i did because it looks like in one image that you have i may be looking at some whoopie pies. And when i mention whoopie pies on my own site the readers seem to respond in a big way. Will you be posting any recipes for your readers Anita, as I'm sure they would love something like that from you. Richard

~CC Catherine said...

Another inspiring post my friend! The pic of the ladie's aged hands with the child's is my favorite...how lovely and timely! It makes me think of Mary & Baby Jesus - The babie's hands reflect Christ as the babe to me. And the aged hands represent what Mary's hands could have looked like when he left this earth... A pic that represents a span of time ~ but no matter how old a mother gets...to her, her child is still a babe...just like these little hands represent. Thanks for this lovely post Anita~ xoxo

art nouveau said...

I'm so so happy that i found you!!!I'm in love with your blog!!!xoxo