Saturday's Simple Joys

"But Mary treasured up all these things
and pondered them in her heart."
Luke 2:19

It has been awhile since I have shared my simple joys but I promised my daughter in India,
who is missing the beauty of winter at the moment, to share some winter photos.
I also have some time to share as it has been a quiet afternoon/evening with my
family away.
Hubby is spending the afternoon with our son, middle daughter is at work
and youngest daughter is snow-boarding with a friend.
It has been a wonderful day with much to be thankful for.
Here are just a few simple joys to share:
♥ breakfast prepared and served by hubby to his family this morning
♥ all of us around the kitchen table except eldest daughter (you are missed k)
♥ baking blitz this morning in preparation for company we are having tomorrow

♥ talking on skype with oldest daughter k today
♥ the sense of accomplishment after cleaning the house; a productive day
♥ an afternoon winter walk
♥ and the peace and stillness of winter amid the gently falling snow
♥ time to reflect, treasure my blessings, and ponder them in my heart
♥ beauty of the winter landscape






♥ going on a date yesterday with middle daughter for some shopping and lunch
at this authentic Mexican Restaurant
♥ music is one of those treasured gifts so I was thrilled with the discovery of a new singer from Norway after my colleague at work shared this video with me...Enjoy!

The poetry/prayer/nature is stunning!

I wish you Health...
So you may enjoy each day in comfort.

I wish you the Love of friends and family...
And Peace within your heart.

I wish you the Beauty of nature...
That you may enjoy the work of God.

I wish you Wisdom to choose priorities...
For those things that really matter in life.

I wish you Generosity so you may share...
All good things that come to you.

I wish you Happiness and Joy...
And Blessings for the New Year.

and this prayer:

Thank you Lord for giving me
The brand new year ahead
Help me live the way I should
As each new day I tread.
Give me gentle wisdom
That I might help a friend
Give me strength and courage
So a shoulder I might lend.
The year ahead is empty
Help me fill it with good things
Each new day filled with joy
And the happiness it brings.
Please give the leaders of our world
A courage born of peace
That they might lead us gently
And all the fighting cease.
Please give to all upon this earth
A heart that's filled with love
A gentle happy way to live
With Your blessings from above.
~ Charlotte Anselmo ~

You can read more about Sissel Kyrkjebø
the beautiful exquisite Norwegian soprano singer here and here
When I was younger, this was a favourite song of mine.
I haven't heard it in awhile but this version is just stunning,
especially with the piccolo (meaning small in Italian)
Duet sung with Russel Watson...