Botanical Gardens

While in Denver, my family took me to see the Christmas lights at the Botanical Gardens.  It was an eye-popper. Magical. I can't imagine the number of lights it took and the amount of hours spent stringing lights on nearly every tree and bush. It was a winter wonder to see, and many folks were bundled up as we were, walking through all the garden displays.  Simply.....beautiful.  The photos were taken on my iPhone...            
                                                              HAPPY  NEW YEAR!

Sunday Brunch at the Broadmoor

I was in Colorado for Christmas, and what a treat to go to the Broadmoor Hotel for Sunday brunch! I loved the holiday music played on the grand piano as we dined.  The selection of food and the service was outstanding, but I found the festive decorations and displays equally as wonderful.

In one of the rooms was displayed a little western town, all made of gingerbread.  So clever.

 

See the Pirouline wafers supporting the porch roof?

It thought it was very clever to use vanilla wafers for the plywood on the saw horses.

Let's be jolly...

No coal in the stocking this year... but plenty of cheer, good food, good company.

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas!  
May all who need comfort, peace, safety, and love, 
find it in the promise of 
God's infinite love 
for all Her children.

Two blooms preparing to open...

I am amazed at the rapid growth of the Amaryllis in the past few days.  I'm told that it takes a while for those blooms to be ready to open.  Well, I wait in anticipation of beautiful red flowers.  Maybe New Years??? 

Christmas Programs

Every elementary student was in every Christmas program at the school I attended, so I had a few performances under my belt by the time I reached Jr. High. The community loved and supported every program.

I don't remember many specifics, but  one picture, probably taken by my parents, sticks in my mind; it was a big production! The picture revealed a colorful  and somewhat elaborate western background on the stage, which was filled with little students in colorful frocks.

Thinking back, I now realize that as a grade school student preparing for these programs, I was learning traditional  Christmas literature, learning to sing in large group, learning to hear and sing harmony, and learning concert etiquette. That music background led to my learning to play clarinet and to not only continue piano lessons, but also learn to accompany.  So by the time I was in high school, I had many opportunities to sing in a choir, to accompany soloists, and to play in a band.

I think what's remarkable about it all is that this was a small, rural community. Most classes had only 20-30 students.  But, somehow we were blessed with some top-notch teachers, and they gave me the opportunity to find my passion in the arts, nurture it, and give it expression.    I am so thankful that this was the case.

 My involvement in the arts has continued to this day in one way or another. When I hear of schools cutting back on instruction in the arts, I stand aghast.

Progress of the Amaryllis

Check it out!! The Amaryllis has suddenly taken off.  It may even bloom by Christmas!  Or by New Years, for sure!  It's like it got a peak at the calendar and decided to kick it into high gear.  I can hardly wait!