Lully Lullay

Somehow the calendar turned the page from November to December when I wasn't looking. It's December 3, and usually I'm starting off in panic mode.
Not this year.
I'm actually feeling quite serene and peaceful. I'm having dreams of sugar plums dancing in my head, and my Christmas countdown running smoothly so far.
Last month, not so much. Too much drama, surgery & pain.
New month, new outlook.
This afternoon, we visit Santa. Winter Wonderland, maybe as well. Perfect photo op, planning a scrapbook page in my head & my sketchbook.
Little Man is taking an art class so the Big Man & I will be visiting Artists Against Hunger (http://eastofegan.com/2011/11/21/artists-against-hunger-5/) at 8th & Railroad. This is a pretty awesome event where proceeds benefit the Banquet and Feeding South Dakota.
Tomorrow, I will be teaching folks how to make easy peasy vegan holiday appetizers in the afternoon.( http://www.argusleader.com/article/20111123/LIFE/311050037/Cooking-vegan-diet) In the morning, I will be teaching kiddos about the real Santa Claus and making St. Nicholas miter hats. (http://www.stnicholascenter.org/pages/crafts/)Total excitement starting Christmas pageant rehearsals!
On Monday evening, my church will be presenting Advent lessons and carols, which is a long standing Anglican tradition. (http://www.kings.cam.ac.uk/events/chapel-services/nine-lessons.html) The practice dates back to King's College, Cambridge and includes 9 Scriptural readings (the lessons). Most of the carols come from the English tradition, and may include Jesus Christ the Apple Tree, Sleepers Awake, the Angel Gabriel and Lo! He Comes Descending. The service usually either opens or closes with Veni Emmanuel. The program starts at 7, with a reception following.
The youth of our church are going to go caroling at a nursing home long affiliated with the Cathedral. It's going to be so much fun!
Next weekend a dear friend will be ordained to the Episcopal priesthood. I am honored and privileged to be a witness to such a sacred moment. I am so excited for her!
In between days I need to do a candy cane manicure and start my baking campaign. I plan on some gingerbread, some sugar cookies, and some round balls. Due to my surgery last year, I didn't bake at all, so I'm desperate to get going again. The gingerbread man apron is tired of being packed away. Besides, our Sunday School kiddos will be decorating cookies for the VA, the Union Gospel Mission & the homebound next Sunday!
Tis the season to be busy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xgGvL09QSSQ&feature=youtube_gdata_player