matthiessen moments

Spent about 3 1/2 hours hiking at beautiful Matthiessen State Park, in Utica IL. Winter here has been a bit strange: lots of unusually warm days, and not much snow. The park was especially beautiful, with a mix of winter, and a way too early for Spring vibe. The park is named for Frederick William Matthiessen. This was his estate and private park!

my happy place

Just love visiting my elderly parents in New York and, going to my happy place…

ransom sunset

A bitter, cold sunset (we have been spoiled with warm weather lately) helps bring Thursday to an end. I am pretty sure there are more wind turbines than people in Ransom, Illinois.

chilly rise

A still, chilly, beautiful first sunrise in 2020.

favorites from 2019

Just did a quick don’t-think-about-it-to-much look at 2019 and chose some favorites. Many thanks to my WordPress family for stopping by and for all your encouraging comments. Have a safe, prosperous New Year! Happy 2020 everyone!

the lights at lincoln park zoo

And finished an impromptu overnight stay in Chicago taking in the lights at Lincoln Park Zoo!

and so it begins

Traditionally, the family Christmas tree is set up the day after Thanksgiving, accompanied by a massive Christmas playlist. This year, with our kids gone to see in-laws, one living far away, and and one visiting his girlfriend’s families, it got done a day early. However, the one tradition that will happen today is that moment when all the day’s work is done (outside lights today), and we sit on the couch, turn off all the lights so that only the warm glow of the tree washes over us, and listen to Silent Night ( https://youtu.be/hTSkS0Abas4 ) by Mannheim Steamroller, arguably, the finest arrangement of that beloved hymn. May this season be filled with light and peace for you and yours.

goodbye sunday

Sorry for the lack of posts… new granddaughter (yay!), lots of rehearsals in preparation for our Christmas performances and, your general, everyday, crazy busy life. So… after taking care of some long over due yardwork, decided to slow down and say goodbye to Sunday. Hope you have a wonderful week, and a Happy Thanksgiving.