Merry and Bright. I really didn't plan on disappearing from the blog world again this December, but it appears I've made it a tradition. The past few weeks of school were particularly stressful, not so much because of assignments (although those weren't a stroll in the park) but because of about-to-graduate hassles and what-are-you-doing-with-the-rest-of-your-life discussions with advisors, trying to figure out how I'm going to cram an internship into my already jam packed schedule, working a lot, and of course:
Christmas knitting. I had to give up on three projects (Kellen's sweater, my brother's second sock, and my grandmother's lap blanket) but all will be finished eventually. I'm also been baking, drinking tea and coffee, and sewing a bit. I really love the holidays but especially with my family's traditions evolving (divorce, new significant others, and all the kids, myself included, growing up) I find myself putting a lot of pressure on myself to make it merry for everyone. And it's not really something I can control, you know? I will not bring about world and family peace if only I can knit everyone a pair of socks. What I can do, is relax, breathe, knit what makes me happy, and leave the stress and expectations out of my celebrations.

Amanda, Stephanie, and Velma all posted things I really needed to read as the clock ticked closer to Christmas. Maybe you'll enjoy them too.

If you're celebrating this week, I hope you find yourself peaceful, cozy, and grateful. That's my goal. I'll be back soon with a post-holiday knitting wrap-up!  ¶ 10:53 AM