My New Year's Resolution

It is the last day of 2015, and I'm reflecting on the good and the bad that happened last year. I'm kind of exhausted myself and in need of putting my own needs and wants first for a change. Not so easy for a working mother of three. I feel responsible for everyone's happiness, especially around the Holidays and it builds pressure and expectation. Everyone constantly wants something from me. I'm actually looking forward to going back to work so that I can read my Christmas present on the train. That's pretty sad... I don't want to dwell on it too long though since a new beginning is right around the corner. My New Years resolution is to take better care of me. I've been so busy this holiday season that I haven't even taken many photos but here are a few iPhone shots:

Sunshine State

Two weeks ago were in the Florida, and spent Thanksgiving with family in these lovely surroundings...

 

TBT & Thankful

Today's throwback is to a few weeks ago, when we had our pre-Thanksgiving dinner. Thanksgiving is a pretty big deal in my family, and since we were away this year for the actual Thanksgiving day, everyone was a little bummed that we would miss our annual family turkey fest. So we decided to have Thanksgiving the weekend before. I've never cooked so fast in my life..or done a full blown Thanksgiving dinner with such minimal advance planning. But it all worked out great, and I guess the years' worth of experience in Thanksgiving cooking paid off. Everything came out delicious and everyone shared what they are thankful for, and everyone had a good warm feeling in their hearts. It was a good kick-off to the Holiday season that is in full swing right now (evidenced by the lack of blog time...). 

The menu changes only slightly every year. This year's addition: Janssoninkiusaus ;-)

The decorations are always done by the kids. 

Mixing Finnish influences, some metallics and crystal..always works.

Add candle light

then sit down to eat with no hurry and enjoy being with the family