These are a few of my favorite things....

Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens

Bright copper kettles and warm woolen mittens

Brown paper packages tied up with strings

These are a few of my favorite things

Cream colored ponies and crisp apple streudels

Doorbells and sleigh bells and schnitzel with noodles

Wild geese that fly with the moon on their wings

These are a few of my favorite things

Girls in white dresses with blue satin sashes

Snowflakes that stay on my nose and eyelashes

Silver white winters that melt into springs

These are a few of my favorite things

When the dog bites

When the bee stings

When I'm feeling sad

I simply remember my favorite things

And then I don't feel so bad

One of my favorite movies growing up was The Sound of Music. I would watch it even though my brothers would go around making gagging sounds. (They did the same thing when I watched Days of Our Lives later in life.) I have often wondered throughout the years why one of the songs from The Sound of Music was and is a popular Christmas song. I haven't ever complained because it brings back fond memories. I have often used the tune to sing about my favorite things to my children and about their favorite things as well. This Christmas I am thankful for these favorite things...

Free ballet tickets from a wonderful friend!

A beautiful sister that was willing to go with me and spend the day together.

Having a crazy bout of insanity and getting a dog that will eventually probably be bigger than me. She is a german shepherd, boxer mix. We love her!

Getting a huge snowstorm, and going out shopping during it.

My sweet Noah boy. This child keeps me happy.

Mister Zane. His smile melts me.

Ceci and Stevie and their tongues. Both of these girls give me great joy.

Baxter, my helper and enforcer. It's not easy having a child taller than you!

My Mom and Dad. I am so glad that they live close to us and share in our lives.

My sister again. I look up to her example in all areas of her life. She is SUPER!

My lovely husband Steve and my brother-in-law Lincoln. They are both silly and serious and seriously .......

The kids all having fun with McKay.

I have loved my holiday season. Spending time with family and friends, cleaning, cooking, eating and vegging has been wonderful and has definitely kept me from getting sad!!!