January 01, 2014

And So it Begins


2014. I always like an even numbered year. This last year was good to me and mine and I'm very appreciative of that. Fingers crossed that the next one will be even better. Right now I'm curled up on the sofa, surrounded by love, listening to ham and beans simmer on the stove, waiting for an impending snow storm and feeling thankful for all 2013 gave me.


There are still a few little holiday touches around here including the tree, which is devoid of ornaments, but which is still twinkling in the corner. Although, truth be told it probably won't make it through the day which is making me a tiny bit sad even as I know I'll enjoy the fresh, clean slate its removal will give me. This entire season zinged right past me and I'm a little annoyed about it. I wanted, tried to savor it, and yet it passed me by anyway.


I'm always excited by a new year and this year is no exception. There is no long list of resolutions or goals here. Just a desire to make the most of life: procrastinating less, playing more, loving better and savoring the moments.


I plan to make this my most creative year yet and I look forward to seeing all the ways that will show up in my every day life. So long 2013, old friend! I welcome 2014 with a hopeful, happy heart.

24 comments:

  1. Happy New Year to you as well! I hope that it's your best.

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  2. Yay for 2014! We took our tree down today. Our tradition. The bowl games help us get thru the massive chore...LOL That's what I get for having over 300 ornies, but I just love them all. Even added 6 more this year! I think I have a problem...LOL Have a wonderful day! Kit

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  3. Happy New Year, JJ! Can't wait to see what's in store for you this year.

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  4. here's to a creative 2014, friend!!!

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  5. Happy New Year, Jen. Our 2013 was not so good so I am happy to have a fresh new start to the year/life. God bless you and your sweet family in the upcoming year- xo Diana

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  6. new years day is my very favorite of the holiday season!

    christmas, and the giddy, glittery build up to it is great fun, but a teeny bit exhausting & stress inducing. new year's day around here consists of naps, old movies, football, t.v. parades, cornbread & collard greens, blackeyed peas & pork slow roasted on the grill. late day p.j. wearing is encouraged. there is no gift giving, shopping, running around or anything that resembles a schedule. although, i usually cave by the end of the day and have been to the gym and cleaned out/organized at least a couple of disaster zones (i do not know why i think this is preferable to taking down the christmas decorations...).

    many happy returns to you, jen! can't wait to see what exciting, yet cozy cottage adventures you have planned for 2014!!

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  7. Our new year began with a family 20 mile bicycle ride, up the hill to Ojai and then a walk on the beach to view the lowest tide of the year. We stood on sand where we normally are kayaking - a marvel of nature.

    I wish you a creative 2014.

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  8. Happy New Year Jen and welcome 2014. I look forward to seeing what the year has in store for you creatively and in your home. I know it will be filled with color and joy.

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  9. Love an even-numbered year too -- even though big things (marriage and kids) all happened in odd-numbered years! Hope your 2014 is fabulous! Love your decorating!

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  10. happy new year to you and the family and thanks for all your fun creative blog posts through the year

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  11. Happy New Year Jen! Love your garland. I always feel a bit sad to take everything down too, but it feels so fresh and new to have it packed away:>)

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  12. Happy New Year and may 21014 be full of creativity!

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  13. Happy New Year!

    I am so happy I found you beautiful blog this year....I always look forward to new posts for you.

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  14. Happy New Year to you and yours! All the way from Texas with love, julia

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  15. Happy New Years....hope your year is filled with oodles of blessings. I love your wall above your fireplace...I have that print of the streets of Paris as well. xo

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  16. Happy 2014 sweet Jen! I hope that this is a year of blessing for your family! (And I concur: Christmas passed by much too quickly for me too!)

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  17. Happy New Year..was wondering if the bells were something you made? Would love to hear about it. Dianntha

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  18. A tad late in getting back to you with a Happy New Year! I'm with ya, gal, for making this the most creative of years!!!!!

    Dawn

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  19. I always feel the same as you when Christmas is over. I feel like I didn't get a chance to just sit and soak in all the sights and sounds and smells of Christmas. Next year will be different! I've already started knitting gifts, so I won't be rushed at the last minute. It's a good start and I hope I can keep it up. Your mantel looks so festive and I love the banner strung across your green chalkboard! So cute!

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