Nice to see you smiling and decorating for the holidays. We had a lot of snow here in Switzerland last week and, for the low-lying areas like where I live, that was unseasonably early. However, it’s warmed up now, so, as the New Englanders say, it’s “Mud Season” at least until the next snows. Px❤️
This post brought two big smiles for me: Sister Sundays and a charming tiny village of holiday-dressed houses. A favorite childhood memory is going to the "Olde Christmas Village" at the Lit Brothers store on Market Street in Philadelphia during the holidays, to wander through the tiny town that had been set up with snow-covered rooftops and lots of glittery lights and decorations and music in the air. My big sister and I looked forward to that trip to the city (which was close to our suburban home) every year because it signaled the start to the holiday season. Sharon (Big Sis) loved Christmas almost as much as she loved birthdays. Also anything in miniature. Her energy is always with me (she died in 2013) but is especially strong at this time of year. Allison, if you read this, please share where you found those charming house kits. I'd like to set up a display here in our log cabin for the holidays. Sharon's grandchildren will be visiting in December and would swoon to the sight. Wishing you a wonderful All-New Thanksgiving.
I love the picture of you & your best friend Ashley. Also great idea with the tiny cardboard houses .. will look especially nice with what you have planned. I’m not sure if you have a wood burning fireplace, but if you do you might want to check amazon for pinion wood. It’s from Mexico and has a lovely scent. I used to buy a burlap bag full when I had a wood burning FP. Now it’s gas, pretty but loses something in translation.
I checked out Flamingo estate. How beautiful. I wish I had thought of things/ farms like this years ago. Enjoyed reading about the tomatoes, fresh pressed olive oil. Curious of what an heirloom tomato candle would smell like?
Love the big budda and all of your artwork and things behind it. A great space ❤️
Lots of things in common with relation to the holidays. Looking for good things to come.
Your home is cozy, warm and filled with love. And Sam’s first holiday season. Much to enjoy.
It took me three evenings to finish the first ep of the Leonardo doc. That’s ok though - it’s important for me to savor art especially during weeks like last when work ground me to a nub.
I normally do not get all crazy with Christmas decor, but I’ve been down wreath making video rabbit holes & brought supplies with me to my Mom’s home to assemble a fresh magnolia wreath. I’m also very into the Scandinavian decor & hygge methods of embracing the winter months as a nesting season. Candles, fuzzy socks & chai are my totems for a cozy season. It’s also calming self care which I’m going to need as we enter the chaos of what’s coming to the US. I’m keeping my head down & going inward - maybe it’s age too, I’ve got a half century birthday in a few months. What’s important is already taking a big shift toward the simpler.
All the holiday hype is rather stressful, but I'll be busy with Nutcracker season at the ballet. Your little houses are adorable and will make lovely decorations with your creative touch.
Da Vinci was a genius, and I'm looking forward to the remainder of the episodes.
Have a lovely Thanksgiving with lots of gravy and gratitude!
P.S. If I come to Nashville, I'll be sure to check out that "Alice" boutique, since it has my namesake,
Allison, I’m probably not in your target market. I’m a 73 year old man, music fan and have been to your shows, Shelby’s, Steve’s, and everyone’s. I read your letter every week and always get something from it. I’ve quoted “cut wood, carry water” so many times since November 5th. Just wanted to say that I hope the season goes well for you. I was divorced over twenty years ago, and while I am very happily remarried, the holidays are still hard for me. Breathe in peace and breathe out love, dear.
I think it’s wonderful that you follow Allison. You’re not too old. Allison writes for all of us, and is a great inspiration no matter our age. I’m 64 btw. She’s a good and kind soul, and no better writer in my opinion.
I frequently remind myself of things she’s said, and hold them dear.
Please don’t fail to write again when so inspired. We’re lucky to have her.
Nice to see you smiling and decorating for the holidays. We had a lot of snow here in Switzerland last week and, for the low-lying areas like where I live, that was unseasonably early. However, it’s warmed up now, so, as the New Englanders say, it’s “Mud Season” at least until the next snows. Px❤️
I think I had that blouse in 1985.
A salad bar in the fridge is brilliant!
This post brought two big smiles for me: Sister Sundays and a charming tiny village of holiday-dressed houses. A favorite childhood memory is going to the "Olde Christmas Village" at the Lit Brothers store on Market Street in Philadelphia during the holidays, to wander through the tiny town that had been set up with snow-covered rooftops and lots of glittery lights and decorations and music in the air. My big sister and I looked forward to that trip to the city (which was close to our suburban home) every year because it signaled the start to the holiday season. Sharon (Big Sis) loved Christmas almost as much as she loved birthdays. Also anything in miniature. Her energy is always with me (she died in 2013) but is especially strong at this time of year. Allison, if you read this, please share where you found those charming house kits. I'd like to set up a display here in our log cabin for the holidays. Sharon's grandchildren will be visiting in December and would swoon to the sight. Wishing you a wonderful All-New Thanksgiving.
Good morning Allison
I love the picture of you & your best friend Ashley. Also great idea with the tiny cardboard houses .. will look especially nice with what you have planned. I’m not sure if you have a wood burning fireplace, but if you do you might want to check amazon for pinion wood. It’s from Mexico and has a lovely scent. I used to buy a burlap bag full when I had a wood burning FP. Now it’s gas, pretty but loses something in translation.
I checked out Flamingo estate. How beautiful. I wish I had thought of things/ farms like this years ago. Enjoyed reading about the tomatoes, fresh pressed olive oil. Curious of what an heirloom tomato candle would smell like?
Love the big budda and all of your artwork and things behind it. A great space ❤️
Lots of things in common with relation to the holidays. Looking for good things to come.
Your home is cozy, warm and filled with love. And Sam’s first holiday season. Much to enjoy.
xo
I love how your Sunday list so often lights the path I wish to be on, but so often get pulled away from. I’m grateful for that wee spark. ❤️
It took me three evenings to finish the first ep of the Leonardo doc. That’s ok though - it’s important for me to savor art especially during weeks like last when work ground me to a nub.
I normally do not get all crazy with Christmas decor, but I’ve been down wreath making video rabbit holes & brought supplies with me to my Mom’s home to assemble a fresh magnolia wreath. I’m also very into the Scandinavian decor & hygge methods of embracing the winter months as a nesting season. Candles, fuzzy socks & chai are my totems for a cozy season. It’s also calming self care which I’m going to need as we enter the chaos of what’s coming to the US. I’m keeping my head down & going inward - maybe it’s age too, I’ve got a half century birthday in a few months. What’s important is already taking a big shift toward the simpler.
Every week I love to read what you write, it’s like a new (and better, for me) version of Sunday School. 🩷
All the holiday hype is rather stressful, but I'll be busy with Nutcracker season at the ballet. Your little houses are adorable and will make lovely decorations with your creative touch.
Da Vinci was a genius, and I'm looking forward to the remainder of the episodes.
Have a lovely Thanksgiving with lots of gravy and gratitude!
P.S. If I come to Nashville, I'll be sure to check out that "Alice" boutique, since it has my namesake,
So many great ideas here - especially the salad caddy and changing holiday decorations.
Something about Christmas always makes me miss people from my past - still alive or off in another world.
Allison, I’m probably not in your target market. I’m a 73 year old man, music fan and have been to your shows, Shelby’s, Steve’s, and everyone’s. I read your letter every week and always get something from it. I’ve quoted “cut wood, carry water” so many times since November 5th. Just wanted to say that I hope the season goes well for you. I was divorced over twenty years ago, and while I am very happily remarried, the holidays are still hard for me. Breathe in peace and breathe out love, dear.
Hello Dan
I think it’s wonderful that you follow Allison. You’re not too old. Allison writes for all of us, and is a great inspiration no matter our age. I’m 64 btw. She’s a good and kind soul, and no better writer in my opinion.
I frequently remind myself of things she’s said, and hold them dear.
Please don’t fail to write again when so inspired. We’re lucky to have her.
Best to you
Gay
Thank you for the beauty you breathe into your Substack and the rich, moving, poignant vulnerability with which you infuse it weekly.