For Your Soul
A flute plays notes long and high, a cello, deep and low,
The forte of the holidays descends to pianissimo.
The kettle gives a steaming whistle
Cocoa stirred and slurped
The fire sends a popping crackle
before slowly ebbing away.
Some engage in a practice
of Reflection on the Past
While other grand schemes
in Anticipation of the Future.
And some will just Be for the Present.
What has been done this year is done
What has not will remain undone.
Whether you clink a glass of cheer
or drink a cup of sorrowful tears
Your lot will change from year to year.
So count your blessings,
Forgive your mistakes,
Let dreams and disappointments
mingle in a harmony of contentment.
~Caitlin Mallery
For Your Eyes
Recently I organized some office libraries in the rainbow scheme, which I think works in spaces where the books are not frequently used. My personal shelves are organized by genre, author, and in historical timelines, among other methods that probably only make sense to me.
Some books I am looking forward to in 2024.
I have already preordered Emily P. Freeman’s new book, How to Walk Into a Room: The Art of Knowing When to Stay and When to Walk Away
Emily Henry has become a summertime staple, this year’s title is Funny Story.
Sarah Bessey also has a new book, Field Notes for the Wilderness: Practices for an Evolving Faith coming out in February.
In 2023 I managed to immerse myself in some book series that have sequels, conclusions, or continuations releasing this year.
Ruthless Vows (the sequel to Divine Rivals) - fantasy, romance, vaguely World War 2 type of world.
The Perils of Lady Catherine De Bourgh (book 3 in the Mr. Darcy & Miss Tilney mystery series) - descendants of the familiar Austen characters with mystery thrown in for good measure.
Boy of Chaotic Making (book 3 in the Whimbrel House series) - New England magic and mystery
For Your Ears
Since I held off on listening to Christmas music until after Thanksgiving I am not yet sick of it entirely. Are you still listening to Christmas music or have you moved on?
For Your Taste Buds
During the twelve days of Christmas (New Year’s Day is the 8th day), I take my kids to buy discount gingerbread house kits and go nuts. It’s also a good time to stock up on chocolate if you are so inclined.
For Your Nose
Teaching my children about personal hygiene as they enter puberty has been a revelation in the vast array of scents available. Choosing a personal scent is a journey in identity. For instance, Elizabeth Taylor’s White Diamonds will forever remind me of my grandmother. Notes of vanilla remind me of my mother, Old Spice of my father. Many of my products are lavender, so I would not be surprised if that is a scent my children associate with me.
I wonder what scents my children will be drawn to for themselves. It took me many years of trying different things to realize I was consistently drawn to the scent of lavender. The subtle floral yet grassy scent is known for its soothing quality. What is your signature scent?
For Your Body
A checklist for the year:
Make annual checkups (see if I am due for a mammogram or pap smear)
Remember kid's sports physicals before the new school year
Regular dental care for all of us
Annual visit with eye doctor for the ones who need it
Appointments with various specialists as needed
I loved the poem today and would like to share it on my blog today with credit and your permission. Would you believe that White Diamonds is my signature fragrance. My granddaughters tell me after a visit with them, that they love the lingering smell of Bibby. Happy New Year to you, and I may also not be finished with Christmas music.