December Brings Change

When December comes to an end, many of us use that time to reflect on what's past, and what's ahead. You see, 2024 was a pretty dramatic year for us, and it's going to end with a bang when my husband retires on the 31st. Our plans are still uncertain, but regardless, we're looking forward to more time together. You see, my husband was a heavy business traveler, and we've been apart for much of the last 10-15 years. But now it's finally time for us to do life together again! 

As for December itself, I used the first part of it to finish my holiday prep. The decorations were put up, and gifts were purchased, then wrapped. Goodies were baked and placed into the freezer for future use. Cards were sent, and menus were prepared for holiday gathering. And some small gifts were made by hand, mostly scarves and earrings.  

After the holiday prep was complete, we packed up the car and drove south to spend Christmas with my parents in Florida. We hadn't spent Christmas together since they moved away from Michigan back in the 90's. It was a quiet time together, but we had plenty of good food and lots of visiting. No, it wasn't actually warm, even though we were in Florida. But it sure wasn't as frigid as the north can be, that's for sure. And it was definitely a green Christmas, a first for us. 

Now that we're back home, it's time to prepare for our late family celebration. The gifts have long been wrapped, so all we need to do now is shop for groceries and do some cooking. I'll leave the decorations up late this year, since the fam isn't coming until just after New Year's. Trying to remain festive! I didn't put up a tree though, since weren't home to water it. But all the other decorations are still in place. 

As for the garden, it's asleep. There isn't anything to see outside except the bones of the place. I miss the flowers, but I do enjoy resting during winter. I kept my display of Christmas greens simple this year, no bows or baubles, just the greenery itself. I like to keep these on display until March, and remove them when everything starts coming back to life for the spring. Below, you'll see the extent of our snowfall. It was just a dusting, and quickly melted. I did like to see the Sweetgum tree wearing its baubles, and the euphorbia Ascot Rainbow looking so well despite the cold it's been through. 

The gray skies of December in Ohio don't allow many sunsets to peek out. When there is a sunset, the best view is usually from my upstairs windows. I'm sure I'll get down to the local pond soon, since the sun sets over the water at this time of year. Meanwhile, it's quick and easy to watch out back at home. 

Thanks for stopping by to see what's happening in the Nest. I have to look beyond the garden at this time of year, while I keep hoping for snow. January should be fairly quiet, but with hubby actually at home, who knows what we'll get up to! Until then.