This Perfectly Imperfect Life

That I am now a writer for The #gardenchat Blog and I've just posted my first Adventures In Gardening column! (Click here to go directly to the post). Again, I'd like to extend my thanks to Brenda of BGgarden and #gardenchat guru extraordinaire for this exciting opportunity and for her friendship & support. I will continue to provide the links for each post on Diggin' Around so be sure to follow me over there! A safe & happy New Year's Eve to all!

(Click on photo for larger view). Beautiful Orchids at a local store. I see now why they're so addicting! Sent on the Sprint Network via my Blackberry Style.

Head on over to New Jersey Through My Eyes for a slideshow of Christmas At History House by clicking here . I hope everyone had a lovely day yesterday!

Sandy Hook/Fort Hancock is just about my favorite place to go, especially off season when The Hook is returned to the locals and we can explore to our heart's content in the quiet of nature by the sea. An annual favorite is going to Christmas At History House (aka Christmas In The 40s) when History House is decked out with World War II era Christmas decorations and reinactors throughout the house dress in WWII era Army Officers uniforms and civilian dress. Depending on what weekend you attend, there's often hot spiced cider and musicians playing Carols in the foyer. I think Hubbs has bored of it by now, but I love going every year. Hard to explain beyond finding it magical. I can't help but wonder if all of this activity stirs up the houses' memories of the past. If you're interested: For the NPS description of the event, click here and scroll to "History House" and "Christmas at History House." For information on Sandy Hook and Fort Hanc...

(Our tree - click on pic for larger view). The last of the gifts are wrapped, the last of the cards we received are hung on the mantle, Santa's riding fire trucks in the neighboring town, the kitties are snoring under the tree, Doctor Who on one tele, A Christmas Story on another. And on the 11th day of Christmas, as true loves we gave to thee, clogged ears & possible sinus infections! Plus Hubbs has a fever. (Ah well, it's inevitable in our household really!) All in all, it's been a bittersweet day. After filling the bird feeders & watching Little Women on TCM this morning, the blues set in. As of tomorrow, my favorite time of year is officially over until October rolls around again. Some years it hits me harder than others. With December feeling more like Spring for the most part, it hasn't felt like Christmas-time for either of us. (At least cold air arrived today!) Annual get-togethers with two of the bff's have been postponed until after Christmas t...