frosted treasures

"How silently they tumble down

And come to rest upon the ground.

To lay a carpet rich and rare,

Beneath the trees without a care."

"Content to sleep, their work well done,

Colors gleaming in the sun."

"Other times they wildly fly

Until they nearly reach the sky.

Twisting turning through the air

Till all the trees stand stark and bare."

"Exhausted, drop to earth below

To wait like children for the snow."

Leaves by Elsie N. Brady

Yesterday was one of our first really cold days. Frost still covered the rooftops and grass when I took my son to school in the morning. I found these amazing frosted treasures in my backyard and had to take a few pictures. On this last day of November I just want to take a deep breathe and savor the last quiet days of Autumn. It's hard not to think of Christmas and Winter when all the shops are trying their hardest to convince you that Autumn ended right after Halloween. I have neighbors that put up their Christmas lights the day after Halloween!

My mom and I had a great time shopping at Michael's this weekend. I found this beautiful silver frosted garland which will be perfect for my chandelier. Winter is an endless wonderland for a frost and glitter addict like me! I finally cleared out the last of the Autumn decorations yesterday, except for the pumpkins. They stick around a little bit longer. One or two even find their way under my tree.

There is something about December that remains bittersweet for me. Joyous occasions like my mom's birthday, our wedding anniversarry and Christmas are happy times. But ever since my dad passed away the holidays will always have a touch of sadness and it breaks my heart to see my mom without him. Every day I'm in constant awe of her courage and tenacity. This December also marks one year since I lost my kitty Kushka and the memories have been especially hard. So much of the season reminds me of the last moments I had with her. I still miss her very much. This is partly why I've been absent most of November, along with also giving my arm a rest. But there is much beauty and joy to look forward to. These lovely  papers are ready for my next project and I have boxes of garland and shiny ornaments waiting to come out and play.

Have you taken your decorations out of hiding yet? What's your favorite way to welcome the season? I have a very simple little tradition. I love hot chocolate. I drink it like most people drink coffee. As soon as the first frosty morning arrives I run to the store and buy whipped cream and all Winter I top my cocoa with a HUGE dollop  of it! Yum!