Just right

 

I scaled back somewhat on the decorations this year. It still looks pretty, but not so claustrophobic in our small house. A perfect size tree, decorated in record time. Four big tubs went right back in the attic. I miss seeing a few things, like my old Mexican nativity set, but can enjoy it all the more next year.

These clean and easy battery candles are sure nice.

The funny elves I bought in Cripple Creek to cheer myself up after a sad winter visit to the nursing home. Memories are made of this. The creepy "antique" Santa face from Walmart, no less.

And a true family heirloom, Dad's old toy camel. Camel has survived a century of countless sticky little hands, cross-country moves and house dogs. 

Not cuddly, he's made of scratchy wool and sawdust. His tail and neck yarns were loved off long ago, but he retains his dignity. Now retired and living under a cozy Christmas tree. I don't like thinking about what happens to our treasures after we're gone. 

As John would say, "then don't think about it."

What weather. Snow and ice on the ground all weekend. A week of cold rain ahead, and shaping up to be a dozzy of a winter on both sides of the mountains. 

It wasn't easy, but I found a new snow-plower in Twisp. Get this, he charges by the MINUTE like a taxi cab! That sounds outrageous, but his estimate for our driveway (20 minutes) was about the same as the flat rate our old neighbor charged. Hopefully it works out for both of us. I heard he's a single dad with young kids. Plowing is a short window of supplementary income for these local guys. 

Onward into the heart of winter...