Twas the Saturday before Christmas and all through the web, not a creature was stirring, and nothings been said….
It's quiet here in cyberspace as we all prepare for the big week of festivities, celebration, family and fun. I think this past week is the first all year that I have not seen a granddaughter. All the moms are busy, I'm busy. This was friend week. I had 3 lunch dates with 3 dear friends. Next week is family week, from the boisterous Riley family part for oh, 60+ Rileys, age 80+ to 8 months, to the intimate Christmas morning gathering here at home for just the 5 of us. Christmas Eve will be at my sisters, Chrismas dinner here. I always make sure I receive something to read on Christmas so that I can curl up in bed early and relax after the whirlwind. When I say I make sure, I mean I gift myself with something juicy to read. To paraphrase Meg in Little Women, "Christmas won't be Christmas without any books."
Busboys & Poets in DC on Monday with Claudine
What a year this has been. What an exciting year to look forward too – but I'll save that for the New Year post that we bloggers write as the year draws to a close. But I must share with you the achievement of another daughter – Samantha, Riley's mother. She has graduated from college! A year ago she was 8 months pregnant and today she is a college graduate. She never missed a beat (thanks to online classes). I could not be prouder. I was her cheerleader all semester as she tackled 4 online classes, classroom observation, papers, exams and yes, a 6-10 month old baby. I flowed a ton of positive energy and "You can do its" her way, listened to her when she was overwhelmed, celebrated with her for each and every A. But honestly, I marveled at her persistance and attitude. Doing anything with a baby is hard enough. Concentrating on 4 courses…amazing. This is a big Christmas for Sam. She will turn 22 next Saturday, degree and baby in hand. Merry Christmas to you Samfor an amazing year!
Merry Christmas, Happy Chanukah, Kwanza and Festivas to ALL.
I’ve had great success with TAP. It seems foolproof. Hoping Lutradur will expand my repertoire. Hoping to too to find it locally but so far, no luck. Thanks, Lesley, for all that you share.
I had not heard of Lutradur until today. I am very anxious to try it. I hope I win one of your books the photo’s are marvelous. I’m sure that I can learn a lot using your techniques and suggestions. Thanks for the opportunity.
I love sammy!!!! I’m so proud of her!!!!
Congrats to Sam! What a great accomplishment.
I love the photo of the little Christmas village. Is this yours? It’s lovely.
Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a wonderful 2009!
You have a wonderful family and lots of good friends. That’s Christmas all year! Just the same I’ll wish you a Merry one.
oh, honey, has it BEEN THAT LONG?! it seems like just yesterday that you shared her good baby news with me. congratulations, sam! congratulations lesley! sending love to the riley household – and lesley, i will be calling you christmas day. let’s start a tradition. xo
Yes, a book at Christmas is essential! Thanks for the reminder — I think I’ll make a trip to the bookstore today. And *look* at that mom and baby photo!!! Oh my, such beauty in your life. Merry, merry Christmas to you and yours, Lesley.